1 large green cabbage

5 slices bacon, chopped

3 tbsp olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

½ tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp Italian seasoning

½ tsp black pepper

½ tsp salt

½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

1 tbsp lemon juice, optional

Red pepper flakes, optional

Prepare the Cabbage:

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Remove any damaged outer cabbage leaves and slice the cabbage into thick rounds about ¾–1 inch thick. Keep the core intact so the slices hold together.

Prepare the Garlic Oil:

In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and salt.

Arrange the cabbage steaks on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush both sides generously with the garlic oil mixture.

Add Bacon:

Scatter chopped bacon around and lightly over the cabbage steaks.

Roast for 20 minutes. Carefully flip the cabbage steaks and continue roasting for another 15–20 minutes, until the edges are deeply caramelized and tender and the bacon is crisp.

Add Parmesan:

Sprinkle Parmesan generously over the roasted cabbage. Return to the oven for 3–5 minutes, until the cheese melts and becomes lightly golden.

Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley. Add a squeeze of lemon juice and a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra brightness and heat.