Air frying brings a whole new dimension to vegetables, transforming a humble head of cabbage into crispy, flavorful steaks that are absolutely irresistible. In just 20 minutes, you can prepare these Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks that boast a satisfying crunch, enhanced by a rich blend of seasonings and cheese. This recipe works beautifully because the air fryer circulates hot air, creating a perfectly charred exterior while keeping the insides tender.
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add a nutritious side dish or a vegetarian main to their meal plan. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep, and leftovers can be easily stored in the fridge for a few days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The air fryer yields perfectly crispy edges while keeping the inside tender.
- It’s a quick recipe, taking only about 20 minutes from start to finish.
- The combination of garlic, onion powder, and parmesan creates a flavor explosion.
- Cabbage is a low-carb, nutritious vegetable that’s versatile and budget-friendly.
What You’ll Need
Gather these simple ingredients to get started:
For the Cabbage Steaks
- 1 head of cabbage, cut into thick slices
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Garlic powder to taste
- Onion powder to taste
For Topping
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Note: Adjust the seasonings to your preference.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Use olive oil instead of butter.
- Nutritional yeast can replace parmesan for a vegan option.
- Swap garlic powder with fresh minced garlic if preferred.
How to Make It
Follow these easy steps to create your delicious cabbage steaks.
Preheat
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Cut
Cut the cabbage into thick slices or ‘steaks’.
Brush
Melt the butter and then brush it on both sides of the cabbage steaks.
Season
Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Arrange
Place the steaks in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Cook
Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are crispy.
Top
Sprinkle with parmesan cheese in the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Serve
Serve immediately and enjoy the delicious flavor.
How to Store It
Fridge: up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, the texture changes upon thawing.
Reheat: use the air fryer at 350°F for 5 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Choose a firm head of cabbage for the best texture.
- Ensure steaks are evenly brushed with butter for consistent flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer; cook in batches if necessary.
- Adjust cooking time based on thickness of steaks for perfect doneness.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with grilled meats for a hearty dinner.
- Serve as a side for BBQ or picnic gatherings.
- Top with a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty finish.



