High-Protein Keto Cabbage Burgers
High-Protein Keto Cabbage Burgers
Juicy beef patties served on roasted cabbage “buns” — low-carb, sugar-free, and ready in 40 minutes
These high-protein keto cabbage burgers replace the traditional bun with thick roasted cabbage slices. Seasoned ground beef patties are seared until golden and served on tender, slightly charred cabbage. Every serving delivers 35 g of protein and only 5 g net carbs.
Low-carb, sugar-free, and perfect for a satisfying burger night without the carbs.
Why you’ll love these burgers
- 35g protein per serving — a complete high-protein meal
- Only 5g net carbs and fully sugar-free
- Roasted cabbage replaces the bun for a low-carb “bun”
- Ready in about 40 minutes
- Juicy, well-seasoned beef patties
- Great for meal prep or family dinners
Health notes
- High protein: Ground beef delivers the bulk of the protein.
- Low carb: Cabbage is used instead of bread.
- Sugar-free: No added sugar in the seasoning or toppings.
- Vegetable base: Cabbage adds volume and fiber.
Key element — thick cabbage slices
Cut the cabbage into thick rounds (about ¾–1 inch). Thin slices fall apart; thicker ones hold the patty and stay sturdy when roasted.
Ingredients
Beef patties
- 1½ lb (680g) ground beef (80/20 or 85/15)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (sugar-free if possible)
- Optional: 1 egg and 2 Tbsp almond flour for extra binding
Cabbage “buns”
- 1 medium head green cabbage
- 2 Tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- Salt and pepper
Optional toppings
- Cheese slices (cheddar, Swiss, or provolone)
- Sugar-free ketchup, mustard, or mayo
- Pickles, sliced tomato, avocado, or lettuce
Swaps
- Turkey or chicken: Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
- Air fryer: Cook cabbage slices and patties in the air fryer at 375°F.
- Cheese-stuffed: Place a cube of cheese in the center of each patty.
- Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the meat mixture.
Instructions
| 1 | Prep the cabbage. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the cabbage into ¾–1 inch thick rounds. Brush both sides with oil and season with salt and pepper. Place on a baking sheet. |
| 2 | Roast the cabbage. Roast 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and lightly browned on the edges. |
| 3 | Make the patties. While the cabbage roasts, mix the ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire. Form into 6–8 patties (slightly larger than the cabbage rounds). |
| 4 | Cook the patties. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties 3–4 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. Add cheese in the last minute if desired. |
| 5 | Assemble and serve. Place each patty on a roasted cabbage round. Add your favorite low-carb toppings and serve immediately. |
Pro tips
- Don’t make the cabbage slices too thin or they will break when you pick them up.
- Press a small indent in the center of each raw patty so it cooks flat instead of puffing up.
- Let the meat come to room temperature for more even cooking.
- Roast extra cabbage rounds if you want a double “bun.”
- These reheat well — keep the patties and cabbage separate if possible.
Nutrition
| Nutrient | Per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Net carbohydrates | 5g |
| Total carbohydrates | 7g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Total fat | 24g |
| Sodium | 520mg |
Estimates based on ground beef and cabbage. Exact numbers vary with beef fat percentage and toppings.
Variations
Bacon cheeseburger style
Top with cooked bacon and a slice of cheddar.
Mushroom Swiss
Sauté mushrooms and melt Swiss cheese on the patties.
Turkey cabbage burgers
Use ground turkey and add a bit of grated onion for moisture.
Open-face version
Serve the patty on one cabbage round and pile on extra toppings.
Storage
| Method | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 4 days | Store patties and cabbage separately if possible |
| Freezer | Up to 2 months | Freeze cooked patties; cabbage is best fresh |
| Reheat | Skillet or oven | Skillet keeps the edges crispy |
FAQ
Test your knowledge
5 quick questions about these keto cabbage burgers
1. Protein per serving?
2. Net carbs per serving?
3. Why cut thick cabbage slices?
4. About how long do these take?
5. Best way to reheat leftovers?
