Let’s transform humble cabbage into crispy, crave-worthy creations! Whether you’re craving quick weeknight dinners, healthy side dishes, or cozy comfort food, your air fryer is the secret weapon. From savory wedges to flavorful stir-fries, we’ve gathered 33 mouthwatering recipes that’ll make this versatile veggie your new favorite. Ready to discover delicious possibilities? Let’s dive in!
Crispy Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks
Got a head of cabbage sitting in your fridge? You’re about to turn it into the crispiest, most satisfying side dish ever. These air fryer cabbage steaks are ridiculously easy and packed with flavor—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 medium green cabbage
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes.
2. Remove any loose outer leaves from the cabbage and slice it into 1-inch thick rounds, keeping the core intact to hold the steaks together.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
4. Brush both sides of each cabbage steak generously with the oil mixture, using all of it.
5. Place the cabbage steaks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, working in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
6. Air fry at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are deeply browned and crispy.
7. Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part—it should slide in easily with a tender texture inside.
8. Transfer the cooked cabbage steaks to a serving plate immediately to prevent sogginess.
9. Keep warm in a 200°F oven if preparing multiple batches.
Kick back and enjoy these steaks hot from the air fryer. They’re wonderfully crispy on the outside with a tender, slightly sweet interior, and the smoky paprika adds a delicious depth. Try drizzling them with a squeeze of lemon or a dollop of creamy ranch for an extra flavor boost!
Spicy Air Fryer Cabbage Wedges
Aren’t you tired of the same old side dishes? Let’s spice things up with these crispy, flavorful cabbage wedges. They’re surprisingly easy to make in your air fryer and pack a delicious punch.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 medium head green cabbage
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.
2. Remove any loose outer leaves from the cabbage head and rinse it under cool water.
3. Pat the cabbage completely dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness.
4. Cut the cabbage into 8 equal wedges, keeping the core intact to hold each wedge together.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
6. Brush the spice mixture evenly onto all cut sides of each cabbage wedge using a pastry brush.
7. Arrange the wedges in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them for air circulation.
8. Air fry at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping the wedges halfway through with tongs, until the edges are deeply browned and crispy.
9. Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part of a wedge; it should be tender.
10. Carefully remove the wedges from the air fryer and let them rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Forget boring veggies—these wedges are all about contrast. The edges get wonderfully crispy and caramelized, while the inner layers stay tender and soak up the smoky, spicy seasoning. Try drizzling them with a little ranch or blue cheese dressing for a cool, creamy counterpoint, or crumble some crispy bacon over the top for extra indulgence.
Garlic Parmesan Cabbage Fries
A crispy, savory snack that transforms humble cabbage into something magical. You won’t believe how addictive these garlicky, cheesy fries are, and they come together with just a few simple ingredients. Let’s get cooking!
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 medium head green cabbage
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Remove the outer leaves from the cabbage, then cut it into 1/2-inch thick wedges, keeping the core intact to hold the wedges together.
3. Place the cabbage wedges on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch for even crisping.
4. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over all sides of the cabbage wedges, using a pastry brush or your hands to coat them thoroughly.
5. In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
6. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture generously over the oiled cabbage wedges, pressing lightly to help it adhere.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping the wedges halfway through, until the edges are deeply golden brown and crispy.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before serving to allow them to crisp up further.
Vibrantly golden with a satisfying crunch that gives way to tender, sweet cabbage inside. The garlic and Parmesan create a savory, umami-packed coating that’s downright irresistible. Try dipping them in ranch dressing or marinara sauce for an extra flavor boost!
Air Fryer Cabbage and Bacon Stir Fry
Bored of the same old side dishes? You’ve got to try this air fryer cabbage and bacon stir fry. It’s crispy, savory, and ready in a flash, making it the perfect easy weeknight win.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
– 6 slices thick-cut bacon
– 1 medium head green cabbage
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions
1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.
2. Chop 6 slices of thick-cut bacon into 1-inch pieces.
3. Core and thinly slice 1 medium head of green cabbage into shreds.
4. In a large bowl, toss the cabbage shreds with 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until evenly coated.
5. Add the bacon pieces to the air fryer basket in a single layer.
6. Air fry the bacon at 400°F for 8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until crispy.
7. Tip: For extra crispiness, pat the bacon dry with a paper towel before chopping to remove excess moisture.
8. Remove the bacon from the air fryer and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels.
9. Add the seasoned cabbage to the air fryer basket, spreading it out evenly.
10. Air fry the cabbage at 400°F for 6 minutes, shaking the basket at the 3-minute mark.
11. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the basket—cook in batches if needed to ensure the cabbage gets crispy instead of steaming.
12. Return the cooked bacon to the basket with the cabbage.
13. Drizzle 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar over the mixture and toss everything together in the basket.
14. Air fry for 1 more minute at 400°F to warm through and blend the flavors.
15. Tip: The vinegar adds a bright tang; add it at the end to preserve its sharpness and prevent it from cooking off.
16. Transfer the stir fry to a serving dish.
Unbelievably, the cabbage turns tender-crisp with deliciously charred edges, while the bacon adds a salty, smoky crunch. Serve it straight from the air fryer as a hearty side, or get creative by topping it with a fried egg for a complete meal.
Tangy Air Fryer Cabbage Slaw
Oh, you know those days when you want something fresh but don’t feel like fussing with a ton of ingredients? This tangy slaw comes together in a flash with your air fryer, giving the cabbage a lightly charred, tender-crisp bite that’s way more exciting than your average raw slaw. It’s the perfect side to jazz up weeknight dinners or bring to a potluck—everyone will ask for the recipe.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 small head green cabbage, cored and thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp sugar
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for 3 minutes.
2. In a large bowl, toss the sliced cabbage with 2 tbsp olive oil until evenly coated.
3. Arrange the cabbage in a single layer in the air fryer basket, working in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
4. Air fry the cabbage at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the edges are lightly browned and slightly crispy.
5. Tip: Shaking the basket ensures even cooking and prevents burning, so don’t skip it!
6. While the cabbage cooks, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tbsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp sugar, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper in a medium bowl until smooth.
7. Tip: For a creamier dressing, let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
8. Transfer the cooked cabbage to a large serving bowl and let it cool for 2–3 minutes.
9. Pour the dressing over the warm cabbage and toss thoroughly to coat every strand.
10. Tip: Tossing while the cabbage is still warm helps it absorb the dressing better for a more flavorful slaw.
11. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to let the flavors deepen.
Just imagine that smoky, caramelized crunch from the air fryer mingling with the zippy, creamy dressing—it’s a texture dream. The tangy kick from the vinegar and mustard balances the sweetness of the cabbage, making it irresistible straight from the bowl or piled high on pulled pork sandwiches for a tasty twist.
Air Fryer Cabbage Chips with Sea Salt
Bored of the same old snacks? You’ve got to try these crispy, salty cabbage chips. They’re a total game-changer for when you want something crunchy without the guilt, and your air fryer makes them super easy.
Serving: 2 | Pre Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 small head green cabbage
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp sea salt
Instructions
1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F.
2. Remove the outer leaves from 1 small head green cabbage.
3. Cut the cabbage into quarters and remove the core.
4. Slice the cabbage quarters into thin, ¼-inch strips.
5. Place the cabbage strips in a large bowl.
6. Drizzle 1 tbsp olive oil over the cabbage.
7. Toss the cabbage with your hands until all strips are lightly coated with oil.
8. Sprinkle 1 tsp sea salt evenly over the cabbage and toss again to distribute.
9. Arrange the cabbage strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket, working in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
10. Air fry at 375°F for 8 minutes.
11. Open the air fryer and shake the basket to flip the cabbage strips.
12. Air fry for another 5-7 minutes at 375°F, watching closely until the edges are browned and crispy.
13. Transfer the cooked cabbage chips to a plate to cool slightly.
Here’s the best part: they come out with a satisfying crunch and a subtle, sweet cabbage flavor that the sea salt perfectly enhances. Try sprinkling them with a little garlic powder or nutritional yeast right after cooking for a fun twist, or just enjoy them straight from the plate—they disappear fast!
Asian-Inspired Air Fryer Cabbage Rolls
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Now, let’s get straight to it—you know those days when you crave something cozy but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen? These Asian-inspired air fryer cabbage rolls are your answer, packing big flavor with minimal fuss. They’re a fun twist on a classic, using your air fryer to get that perfect crispy edge without deep-frying.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
– 8 large cabbage leaves
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup shredded carrots
– Cooking spray
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat.
2. Blanch the cabbage leaves in the boiling water for 2 minutes until pliable, then drain and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, cooked white rice, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped green onions, and shredded carrots.
4. Mix the ingredients thoroughly with your hands or a spoon until well incorporated.
5. Place a cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface and spoon about 1/4 cup of the pork mixture into the center.
6. Fold the sides of the leaf inward, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to enclose the filling.
7. Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling to make 8 rolls.
8. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for 3 minutes.
9. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
10. Arrange the cabbage rolls in a single layer in the basket, leaving space between them for air circulation.
11. Air fry at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the rolls are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
12. Remove the rolls from the air fryer and let them rest for 2 minutes before serving.
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Keep it simple and enjoy these rolls hot—they come out with a satisfying crunch on the outside and a juicy, savory filling inside. For a fun twist, drizzle with a bit of extra soy sauce or serve alongside steamed rice to soak up all those delicious flavors.
Air Fryer Roasted Cabbage with Lemon Zest
You know how sometimes you want a veggie side that’s easy but still feels special? Air fryer roasted cabbage with lemon zest is exactly that—it turns humble cabbage into crispy, caramelized wedges with a bright finish.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 medium head green cabbage
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 lemon
Instructions
1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes.
2. Cut the cabbage into 8 equal wedges, keeping the core intact to hold them together.
3. Place the cabbage wedges in a large bowl.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the cabbage.
5. Sprinkle the kosher salt and black pepper evenly over the cabbage.
6. Toss the cabbage gently with your hands to coat each wedge thoroughly.
7. Arrange the cabbage wedges in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them for air circulation.
8. Air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes.
9. Flip each cabbage wedge carefully using tongs.
10. Air fry for another 5 minutes at 400°F until the edges are deeply browned and crispy.
11. While the cabbage cooks, zest the lemon to get 1 teaspoon of zest.
12. Transfer the cooked cabbage to a serving platter.
13. Sprinkle the lemon zest evenly over the hot cabbage.
14. Squeeze half the lemon over the cabbage for extra brightness.
Just out of the air fryer, the cabbage has tender centers and crispy, almost charred edges that soak up the zesty lemon. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or toss it into grain bowls for a pop of texture and flavor.
Savory Air Fryer Stuffed Cabbage Leaves
Ugh, who has time to stand over a stove all day? You’re about to love this shortcut version of a classic comfort food. Savory Air Fryer Stuffed Cabbage Leaves are your new weeknight hero—they’re packed with flavor and ready in a fraction of the time.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 large head green cabbage
– 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
– 1 large egg
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
– 1/2 cup beef broth
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. 2. Carefully remove 8 large outer leaves from the cabbage head. 3. Blanch the cabbage leaves in the boiling water for 3 minutes until pliable. 4. Transfer the leaves to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking, then pat them completely dry with paper towels. 5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked white rice, chopped yellow onion, egg, tomato paste, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. 6. Mix with your hands until just combined—overmixing can make the filling tough. 7. Place about 1/4 cup of the meat mixture in the center of each dried cabbage leaf. 8. Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the stem end. 9. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for 3 minutes. 10. Lightly brush the air fryer basket with the olive oil to prevent sticking. 11. Arrange the cabbage rolls in the basket in a single layer, seam-side down. 12. Air fry at 375°F for 15 minutes. 13. While the rolls cook, whisk together the tomato sauce and beef broth in a small saucepan. 14. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce to low and keep warm. 15. After 15 minutes, carefully open the air fryer and spoon half of the warm sauce over the rolls. 16. Air fry for an additional 10 minutes at 375°F, or until the internal temperature of the filling reaches 165°F. 17. Let the rolls rest in the basket for 5 minutes before serving with the remaining sauce.
Deliciously tender cabbage wraps a juicy, well-seasoned filling, with the air fryer giving the exterior a delightful hint of crispness. The tangy tomato sauce brings it all together perfectly. For a fun twist, try serving them over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Herb-Infused Air Fryer Cabbage Slices
Fancy a crispy, flavorful veggie side that’s ready in a flash? You’ll love these herb-infused air fryer cabbage slices. They’re a simple, healthy upgrade to your usual roasted veggies.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 medium head green cabbage
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– ½ tsp salt
– ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F.
2. Remove the outer leaves from the cabbage and slice it into ½-inch thick rounds.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. Brush both sides of each cabbage slice generously with the oil mixture using a pastry brush.
5. Arrange the slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket, working in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
6. Air fry at 375°F for 10 minutes.
7. Carefully flip each slice with tongs after 10 minutes.
8. Continue air frying for another 5 minutes at 375°F until the edges are golden brown and crispy.
9. Transfer the cooked slices to a serving plate immediately.
Crispy on the outside with a tender bite inside, these cabbage slices have a savory herb flavor that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken or fish. Try drizzling them with a little lemon juice or serving alongside a creamy dip for extra zing.
Simple Air Fryer Cabbage and Carrot Mix
Let’s be real—you want something healthy, easy, and tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. This air fryer cabbage and carrot mix is your new go-to side dish that comes together in a flash, and it’s so simple you’ll make it on repeat.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 small head green cabbage, cored and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch rounds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for 3 minutes.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chopped cabbage and sliced carrots.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables and toss to coat evenly.
4. Sprinkle the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper over the vegetables and toss again until well distributed.
5. Transfer the vegetable mixture to the air fryer basket in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
6. Air fry at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
7. Check for doneness after 12 minutes—the cabbage should be tender with crispy edges and the carrots fork-tender.
8. Remove from the air fryer and let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Keep it simple and enjoy this dish warm—the cabbage gets wonderfully caramelized and slightly crisp, while the carrots add a sweet, earthy balance. Toss it with cooked quinoa for a hearty bowl or top with a fried egg for a quick breakfast twist.
Air Fryer Cabbage and Onion Fritters
Mmm, sometimes you just need a crispy, savory snack that comes together fast without heating up the whole kitchen. These air fryer fritters are the perfect solution—they’re packed with flavor and have that satisfying crunch you crave. You’ll love how simple they are to whip up on a busy weeknight.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Ingredients
– 4 cups shredded green cabbage
– 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Cooking spray
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and chopped onion.
2. Add the eggs, flour, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the bowl.
3. Mix everything together until well combined and the mixture holds together when pressed.
4. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for 3 minutes.
5. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
6. Scoop about 1/4 cup of the mixture per fritter and shape into patties, placing them in the basket in a single layer without touching.
7. Lightly spray the tops of the fritters with cooking spray.
8. Air fry at 375°F for 6 minutes.
9. Carefully flip the fritters using a spatula.
10. Air fry for another 6 minutes at 375°F until golden brown and crispy.
11. Remove the fritters from the air fryer and let them cool on a wire rack for 2 minutes before serving.
But these fritters aren’t just crispy—they’re tender inside with a savory, slightly sweet flavor from the caramelized onions. Try serving them with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick, or crumble them over a salad for a crunchy topping.
Conclusion
Vastly versatile, this collection proves cabbage is an air fryer superstar! From quick sides to hearty mains, there’s a recipe for every craving. We hope you’ve found some new favorites to try. Don’t forget to leave a comment telling us which one you loved most, and if you enjoyed this roundup, please share it on Pinterest to help other home cooks discover these delicious ideas. Happy air frying!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
