Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather your ingredients and equipment, including a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Slice the small head of cabbage into thick rounds (approximately ½ inch), and lay them flat on the baking sheet. Brush both sides with olive oil.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and add an egg if using.

Shape the meat mixture into patties slightly smaller than the cabbage rounds.

Place each patty on top of the oiled cabbage rounds and bake for approximately 25 minutes until the meat reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

(Optional) Remove from the oven, sprinkle cheese on top, and broil for 3-5 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Allow to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.