Easy 15-Minute Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks (Low-Carb & High-Protein Side)

Tender on the inside with deeply caramelized, shatteringly crisp edges, this easy air fryer cabbage transforms humble green cabbage into a savory showstopper.

Equipment

• Air fryer (4-quart or larger): Circulates high-velocity hot air to crisp cabbage edges quickly without excess oil.
• Chef’s knife (8-inch): Slices cleanly through dense cabbage heads in a single downward motion for intact wedges.
• Silicone tongs: Allows gentle flipping of the hot wedges halfway through without tearing the leaves apart.
• Silicone basting brush: Distributes the oil and spice blend evenly across all crevices of the cabbage cut surfaces.

Ingredients

• 1 small head green cabbage (about 1.5 lbs / 700g), outer loose leaves removed and cut into 4 thick wedges ( Note: keep the core intact so wedges hold together ).
• 1.5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (or avocado oil for higher smoke tolerance).
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
• 0.5 tsp onion powder
• 0.5 tsp coarse sea salt
• 0.25 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese (approx. 25g; use finely grated for better adhesion).
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (optional, for finishing).

Instructions

1. Prep and season the wedges: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) . Cut the cabbage head in half through the stem, then cut each half into two even wedges, keeping a segment of the core on each. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Brush the mixture generously over all cut sides and crevices of each wedge.
2. Air fry first side: Place the seasoned wedges into the preheated air fryer basket in a single layer with space between them. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 7 minutes until the upward-facing edges begin to brown and turn slightly translucent.
3. Flip and tenderize: Using silicone tongs, carefully flip each wedge over. Cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until the cabbage is tender when pierced with a fork and the outer leaf tips are charred and blistered.
4. Melt the cheese crust (High-Protein Finish): Evenly sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top cut surfaces of the cabbage wedges. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 1 to 2 minutes just until the cheese is completely melted, bubbling, and golden brown.
5. Garnish and serve: Transfer carefully to a serving platter, spritz with fresh lemon juice if desired, and pair immediately with a lean protein such as grilled chicken breast or seared salmon steaks.

Nutrition

Calories: 95 kcal · Protein: 3.5 g · Fat: s: 6.5 g Cholesterol: 5 mg · Carbohydrates: 7 g · Fiber: 3 g · Sugar: 4 g · Sodium: 380 mg