Looking for a healthy, low-carb alternative to traditional burgers? These Baked Cabbage Nest Burgers are a crispy, flavorful, and guilt-free way to enjoy a burger without the bun! Made with shredded cabbage, seasonings, and your favorite burger toppings, this recipe is perfect for keto, paleo, and gluten-free diets.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly – No buns, just crispy cabbage nests!
✔ Flavor-Packed – Garlic, paprika, and black pepper add a delicious kick.
✔ Crispy Yet Juicy – The baked cabbage creates a sturdy base for juicy burger patties.
✔ Customizable – Add your favorite toppings for the ultimate burger experience!
📌 Ingredients (Serves 4)
🥬 For the Cabbage Nests:
- 3 cups shredded green cabbage
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
🍔 For the Burger Patties: (Optional, but recommended!)
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
🍽️ Toppings (Choose Your Favorites!):
- Sliced cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack)
- Lettuce & tomato slices
- Avocado or guacamole
- Sugar-free ketchup or mustard
- Crispy bacon
💡 Optional Additions:
✔ Swap green cabbage for red cabbage for a colorful twist!
✔ Add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
🍽 Step-by-Step Instructions
🥬 Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Nests
1️⃣ Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2️⃣ In a large bowl, toss the shredded cabbage with salt, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper.
3️⃣ Form four small “nests” on the baking sheet, pressing them down slightly to hold shape.
💡 Pro Tip: Use a ring mold or biscuit cutter to shape perfectly round cabbage nests!
🔥 Step 2: Bake Until Crispy
1️⃣ Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and crispy.
2️⃣ Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
💡 Want extra crispiness? Broil for the last 2-3 minutes!
🍔 Step 3: Cook the Burger Patties (Optional but recommended!)
1️⃣ In a bowl, mix ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.
2️⃣ Form into four patties and cook on a skillet over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side.
3️⃣ Top with cheese during the last minute of cooking for a melty finish!
💡 For extra juiciness, let patties rest for 5 minutes before assembling!
🍽️ Step 4: Assemble & Serve!
1️⃣ Place a burger patty on top of each cabbage nest.
2️⃣ Add your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, avocado, or bacon.
3️⃣ Serve immediately and enjoy a crispy, low-carb burger experience!
💡 Want a dipping sauce? Try garlic aioli or sugar-free ranch dressing!
🕰️ Recipe Timing & Nutrition
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Calories: ~250 kcal per serving (without toppings)
- Servings: 4
👩🍳 Pro Tips & Variations
✔ Make It Vegetarian – Use a portobello mushroom or black bean patty instead of meat.
✔ Spice It Up – Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the cabbage mix.
✔ Extra Crunch? Air-fry the cabbage nests at 375°F for 12-15 minutes.
✔ Dairy-Free? Skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
❓ FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Bake the cabbage nests in advance and reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes before serving.
What’s the best meat for this recipe?
Ground beef, turkey, or chicken all work great—choose your favorite!
Can I freeze the cabbage nests?
Not recommended, as the texture may become soggy. Best enjoyed fresh!