This innovative and delicious recipe combines the flavors of tender, roasted cabbage steaks with juicy, flavorful meatballs. The dish is simple to prepare and makes for a unique and hearty meal that will impress your family and friends. Follow these detailed steps to create this mouth-watering dish.
Ingredients
For the Cabbage Steaks:
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Steaks
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice the Cabbage: Remove any damaged outer leaves from the cabbage. Cut the cabbage into 1-inch thick slices, making sure to keep the core intact so the slices hold together.
- Season the Cabbage: Place the cabbage slices on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle both sides of the cabbage steaks with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Roast the Cabbage: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the cabbage steaks for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are tender and golden brown on the edges.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatballs
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Form the Meatballs: Divide the meat mixture into equal portions and roll into balls. Each meatball should be about the size of a golf ball.
- Flatten the Meatballs: Place a meatball on each cabbage steak and gently press down with a potato masher or the back of a spoon to flatten slightly, ensuring it adheres to the cabbage steak.
Step 3: Bake the Cabbage Steaks with Meatballs
- Bake Together: Once the cabbage steaks have been flipped halfway through roasting, add the prepared meatballs on top of each cabbage steak. Continue roasting for another 20-25 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through and the cabbage is tender.
- Check for Doneness: Ensure the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 160°F (71°C) using a meat thermometer.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Plate the Dish: Carefully transfer the cabbage steaks with meatballs to serving plates.
- Optional Garnish: For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle with additional chopped parsley or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- Serve: Serve the baked cabbage steaks with meatballs hot, alongside your favorite side dishes such as mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables.
Tips and Variations
- Cheese Topping: For a cheesy twist, sprinkle grated mozzarella or Parmesan cheese on top of the meatballs during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Spicy Version: Add some heat by mixing in red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños into the meatball mixture.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with a mixture of cooked lentils and mushrooms for a vegetarian version of the meatballs.
- Sauce Pairing: Serve with a side of marinara sauce, gravy, or tzatziki sauce for added flavor.
Nutritional Information
This dish is a great balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Cabbage is low in calories but high in vitamins C and K, while the meatballs provide a good source of protein and iron. Adjust the seasoning and ingredients to meet your dietary needs and preferences.
Baked cabbage steaks with meatballs offer a unique and delicious meal that is sure to become a family favorite. The combination of tender, roasted cabbage with juicy, flavorful meatballs creates a satisfying dish that is easy to prepare. Enjoy this meal as a hearty dinner option, and don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends and family. Happy cooking!
