If you’re searching for a simple yet show-stopping veggie side, Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks are bound to blow you away. They’re irresistibly savory and gloriously crispy, with smoky edges, tender centers, and endless topping options. This easy recipe transforms humble cabbage into a golden, flavor-stacked highlight that’s perfect for weeknights or your next dinner party. Whether you’re eating plant-based, watching your carbs, or just want a delicious new way to love your greens, these Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks won’t disappoint!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be fooled by the short ingredient list—each component brings something special, creating layers of flavor and that signature cabbage steak crunch. Simplicity doesn’t mean boring here; these ingredients are the keys to color, taste, and pure comfort.
- Green cabbage: Choose a medium head for sweet, mild flavor and sturdy structure—the core holds the steaks together beautifully.
- Olive oil: A drizzle of this healthy fat ensures crispy edges and helps the seasonings cling to every surface.
- Garlic powder: Adds an instant savory kick and infuses the cabbage with garlicky goodness.
- Smoked paprika: Brings alluring smoky depth and an inviting reddish hue to the finished steaks.
- Salt: Essential for drawing out the cabbage’s natural sweetness and keeping each bite perfectly seasoned.
- Black pepper: Lends subtle warmth and a touch of brightness that ties everything together.
- Optional toppings: Grated Parmesan, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or a shower of fresh herbs add bursts of flavor and color—totally customizable!
How to Make Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks
Step 1: Prep the Cabbage
Start by discarding any outer leaves that don’t look their best—they’ve done their job protecting the cabbage and are ready to retire. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the cabbage into 1-inch thick rounds. Try your best to keep the core intact for each piece, since it helps hold those gorgeous “steaks” together while they cook.
Step 2: Mix the Seasoned Oil
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This dreamy blend is what takes Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks from ordinary to unforgettable, infusing every layer with flavor while encouraging crispy golden edges.
Step 3: Brush and Season
Coat both sides of every cabbage steak generously with the seasoned oil. Brushing is best—you’ll get perfect coverage without disturbing the structure of the cabbage rounds. Take a moment to let the paprika and garlic sink in, then get ready to cook!
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Crispiness starts with the right temperature. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes. A hot basket ensures those steaks start sizzling on contact, which is exactly what you want for those beautifully browned edges.
Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection
Arrange the cabbage steaks in a single layer in your air fryer basket (work in batches if you need to, so no piece gets overcrowded). Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until you spot crispy, caramelized edges and the centers are fork-tender. For maximum crunch, add an extra 2–3 minutes.
Step 6: Serve and Top
Move those golden cabbage steaks to a platter and shower them with your favorite toppings: a dusting of Parmesan for savory flair, a flurry of red pepper flakes for heat, or an herbal pop with fresh parsley or dill. Serve warm for ultimate comfort and contrast!
How to Serve Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks
Garnishes
Finishing touches make all the difference with Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks. Sprinkle on grated Parmesan for melty, salty goodness, a dash of red pepper flakes if you’re after a little zing, or some chopped fresh herbs like chives or dill for a bright flourish. You can even try a squeeze of lemon for extra freshness—the options are endless!
Side Dishes
These crispy cabbage steaks happily share the spotlight with a range of mains. Serve them alongside juicy grilled chicken, steak, garlic shrimp, or your favorite plant-based proteins. If you want to keep things vegetarian, they’re stellar atop creamy polenta or with a nutty quinoa salad on the side. Every plate feels a little more special with their gorgeous, golden presence.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks into appetizer bites by slicing them into wedges and serving with a dip (try a garlicky aioli or spicy yogurt sauce!). For a fun twist, layer them in a sandwich for a hearty, veggie-packed lunch. Feeling festive? Use purple cabbage for a vivid, eye-catching upgrade that dazzles on any holiday table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks, let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’ll still be tasty, with a softer texture and deep, savory flavor—perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners.
Freezing
While cabbage steaks can technically be frozen, their texture does change—it becomes a bit more tender and less crisp when reheated. If you want to freeze them, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Bring leftover cabbage steaks back to life in the air fryer! Just cook at 350°F for 3–5 minutes until warmed through and the edges perk up. You can also reheat in a skillet over medium heat or even use the oven if making a big batch—the key is to avoid the microwave, which can make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use purple cabbage for Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks?
Absolutely! Purple cabbage not only works wonderfully but brings a stunning burst of color to your table. The flavor is very similar, though sometimes a bit milder. Just slice and season as directed, and enjoy the visual wow factor.
Why do my cabbage steaks fall apart sometimes?
The cabbage core is what holds each steak together, so try to keep a piece of the core attached to every slice. Handle the rounds gently when flipping or transferring. If a few leaves loosen, don’t worry; the crispy bits are delicious!
How thick should I slice cabbage steaks for the air fryer?
For best results, aim for 1-inch thick slices. This thickness lets the edges get beautifully crisp while the inside stays tender and juicy, rather than drying out or burning.
Can I make these oil-free?
You can reduce or skip the oil, but be prepared for less browning and crispiness. If you’re avoiding oil for dietary reasons, try brushing with a little broth or a spritz of water mixed with your seasonings—still tasty, just a different texture.
What if I want extra flavor?
Personalize your Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks! Add onion powder, dried herbs, Cajun spice, or a squeeze of lemon juice before cooking—or experiment with different cheese and herb combos on top. The recipe is a blank canvas for your favorite flavors.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to try Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks—they’re a true game-changer for veggie lovers and skeptics alike! With unbeatable crunch, rich flavor, and endless ways to make them your own, they might just become your most-requested side or meatless main. Fire up your air fryer and see how amazing humble cabbage can be!
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Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Enjoy a delicious and healthy side dish with these flavorful Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks. Perfectly seasoned and air-fried to crispy perfection, these cabbage steaks are a great addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 medium green cabbage
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Toppings:
- Grated Parmesan
- Red pepper flakes
- Fresh herbs
Instructions
- Prepare the Cabbage: Remove damaged outer leaves, slice cabbage into 1-inch rounds with core intact.
- Season the Cabbage: Mix olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat cabbage steaks with the mixture.
- Air Fry: Preheat to 375°F, air fry cabbage steaks for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Serve: Top with Parmesan, red pepper flakes, or herbs and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra crispiness, increase cook time by 2–3 minutes.
- Pair with grilled meats or enjoy as a vegetarian main.
- Try with purple cabbage for a colorful twist.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 steak
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
