Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks With Goat Cheese and Balsamic Glaze

Air fryer cabbage steaks with goat cheese are a quick and flavorful side dish, ready in under 20 minutes. They cook up perfectly with a tender center and crisp edges.

I never expected my family to get excited about cabbage until I tried air frying it. It completely changed the way we see this vegetable, turning something that was often overlooked into a dish my kids now fight over. The best part? It comes together in just minutes of work.

The air fryer works its magic, transforming simple cabbage slices into caramelized, slightly crispy "steaks" that taste nothing like the boiled cabbage many of us grew up avoiding. The edges turn golden and crisp, while the centers stay tender and full of flavor. I knew I had a winner when my daughter asked for them by name.

What makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity. Just slice, season, and air fry—no need to hover over the stove. While I’m helping with homework or finishing up a work call, the cabbage steaks are crisping to perfection. They’re the kind of effortless side dish I rely on when I need something nutritious but don’t have time for anything complicated.

I first came up with this recipe as a way to use up half a cabbage sitting in my fridge. Now, I make sure to keep it in regular rotation. The air fryer turns this budget-friendly vegetable into something that feels special enough for company yet easy enough for a weeknight.

If you're looking for a simple way to add more vegetables to your meals or just need a hands-off side dish, these cabbage steaks are worth trying. The empty plate at the end of dinner says it all—who knew cabbage could disappear so fast?

Ingredients

• Green cabbage - serves as the main ingredient, gives a hearty base with a crisp texture that holds up well in cooking.
• Olive oil - adds richness and enhances the flavors of the spices while allowing the cabbage to caramelize.
• Smoked paprika - contributes a deep, smoky flavor that adds depth to the dish.
• Garlic powder - adds a savory note that complements the other spices.
• Onion powder - adds a mild onion flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• Caraway seeds - give a distinctive flavor that pairs well with cabbage and adds an aromatic touch.
• Balsamic glaze - adds a sweet and tangy finish, brightening the dish.
• Crumbled goat cheese - adds creaminess and a tangy flavor, creating a nice contrast to the cabbage.

See the recipe card for exact quantities.

Step-by-step Instructions

If you're looking for a delicious and healthy cabbage recipe that's easy to prepare, these air fryer cabbage steaks are a great option! With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a flavorful dish that pairs well with any meal. Follow these instructions to make your own tasty cabbage steaks!

Prepare the Cabbage

Start by cutting the cabbage into 1-inch thick steaks. Make sure to keep the core intact, as this will help the steaks hold their shape during cooking. Lay the cabbage flat on a cutting board, and use a sharp knife to slice through the head of cabbage.

Make the Seasoning Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and caraway seeds. Mix these ingredients well until they form a cohesive mixture. This seasoning will add flavor to the cabbage steaks.

Brush the Cabbage Steaks

Using a brush or a spoon, apply the seasoning mixture to both sides of the cabbage steaks. Make sure to coat them evenly to enhance the flavor. After brushing, season the steaks with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Before cooking, preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Preheating helps ensure that the cabbage cooks evenly and develops a nice texture.

Cook the Cabbage Steaks

Once the air fryer is preheated, place the seasoned cabbage steaks in the air fryer basket. Arrange them in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook the steaks for 8-10 minutes.

Flip and Continue Cooking

After the initial cooking time, carefully flip the cabbage steaks using tongs. Cook for an additional 7-10 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and the center is tender. Keep an eye on them to achieve your desired level of crispiness.

Finish and Serve

Once the cabbage steaks are done cooking, remove them from the air fryer. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for added flavor, and sprinkle crumbled goat cheese on top. Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful air fryer cabbage steaks!

Storage

To store leftover air fryer cabbage steaks, allow them to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, place the cabbage steaks in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, reheat the cabbage steaks in the air fryer or oven at a low temperature until warmed through. This will help retain their texture and flavor.

What to Serve with Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks

Air fryer cabbage steaks are easy to serve with a variety of dishes, whether you want something hearty or light. They go well with buttermilk chicken and potatoes or air fryer turkey thighs, both bringing a rich contrast to the cabbage’s crisp edges. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, lemon air fryer salmon adds a fresh, bright balance.

For a more vegetable-focused plate, try quinoa salad or roasted carrots with hazelnuts for extra texture and color. A drizzle of tahini sauce brings in a creamy element, while crispy air fryer brussels sprouts add another layer of crunch. If you’re planning to serve it with a festive spread, chicken with pomegranate ties everything together with a hint of sweetness.

Recipe