Roasted Parmesan Cabbage Wedges with Bacon

Roasted Parmesan Cabbage Wedges with Bacon

Roasted cabbage wedges are a delicious and simple side dish that transforms this humble vegetable into something truly special. With crispy edges, melted Parmesan cheese, and smoky bacon, these wedges make a perfect accompaniment to any main course or a satisfying vegetarian option on their own.

Ingredients

• 1 head green cabbage
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cut cabbage into 1-inch thick wedges, keeping the core intact so they hold together.
3. Brush both sides of each wedge with olive oil and place on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.
5. Roast for 20 minutes, then flip the wedges carefully.
6. Roast for another 15 to 20 minutes until the edges are charred and the cabbage is tender.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the hot wedges while they are still on the baking sheet.
8. Top with crumbled bacon and fresh parsley.
9. Drizzle lightly with balsamic vinegar and serve immediately.

Practical Tips

Keep the core intact: When cutting your cabbage wedges, leave the core attached to each piece. This keeps the wedge from falling apart during roasting and ensures even cooking throughout.

For extra crispy edges: Increase the oven temperature to 425°F and watch carefully during the last few minutes of roasting. This creates darker, crispier caramelized edges that add wonderful texture and flavor.

Prepare bacon ahead: Cook your bacon slices beforehand and crumble them while still warm. This saves time during final assembly and ensures the bacon is perfectly crispy.

How to Store

Store leftover roasted cabbage wedges in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to restore some crispness. Do not add the Parmesan, bacon, and parsley until just before serving for best results.

Common Questions

Can I make these wedges without bacon? Absolutely. These cabbage wedges are delicious on their own with just the Parmesan cheese and balsamic vinegar. You can also substitute the bacon with crispy chickpeas or nuts for a vegetarian variation.

What if my cabbage wedges fall apart during cooking? Make sure to cut thick enough wedges and keep the core intact. Handle them gently when flipping. If pieces do separate, simply push them back together or arrange them on the baking sheet as they are.

Can I use red cabbage instead of green? Yes, red cabbage works well and will have a slightly different flavor profile. The cooking time remains the same, though red cabbage may take a minute or two longer to become completely tender.