This Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together crispy bacon, tender cabbage, and aromatic garlic and onions. It’s a Southern-inspired side dish that pairs well with just about anything, or you can enjoy it as a hearty main course on its own.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make with minimal ingredients
- Packed with rich, smoky, and savory flavors
- Perfect as a side dish or a low-carb main meal
- Budget-friendly and made with simple pantry staples
- Great for meal prep and easy to reheat
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Bacon
- Cabbage
- Onion
- Garlic
- Butter
- Salt and pepper
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions
- Cook the bacon – In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the grease in the pan.
- Sauté the onion and garlic – Add the chopped onion to the bacon grease and cook until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the cabbage – Toss in the chopped cabbage and stir well to coat it in the bacon grease. Cook until the cabbage is tender, about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season and mix – Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir in the cooked bacon and a little butter for extra richness.
- Serve and enjoy – Remove from heat and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Make it spicy – Add extra red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Add protein – Stir in cooked sausage or shredded chicken for a heartier meal.
- Use different seasonings – Experiment with smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, or a dash of vinegar for extra tang.
- Make it vegetarian – Skip the bacon and use olive oil or butter for sautéing.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second increments until heated through.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of the cabbage may become too soft.
FAQs
How do I prevent the cabbage from getting soggy?
Cook it over medium heat and stir occasionally to allow excess moisture to evaporate.
Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?
Yes, but freshly chopped cabbage tends to hold up better during cooking.
What type of bacon works best?
Thick-cut bacon provides a meatier texture, but any type will work.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Reheat it on the stovetop for the best texture.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Use turkey bacon or reduce the amount of bacon grease used for cooking.
What can I serve this with?
It pairs well with grilled meats, roasted potatoes, or cornbread.
Can I add cheese?
Absolutely! A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Parmesan adds a delicious twist.
Is this dish keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and keto-friendly.
Can I cook this in the oven?
Yes, roast the cabbage with bacon at 375°F for about 25 minutes, stirring halfway.
What if I don’t have bacon?
Use smoked sausage or pancetta as a substitute.
Conclusion
Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic is an easy, delicious, and budget-friendly dish that works as a side or main course. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful meal that the whole family will love. Try it today and enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic recipe!
Print
Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Southern, American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and flavorful side dish made with crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and tender cabbage, all seasoned to perfection. This Southern-style dish is easy to make and pairs well with almost any main course.
Ingredients
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium head cabbage, cored and chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for extra richness)
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pan.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the chopped cabbage to the pan, stirring to coat with the bacon grease. Cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized.
- Season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine.
- Add the cooked bacon back to the pan and mix it in. If desired, stir in 2 tablespoons of butter for extra richness.
- Remove from heat and serve hot. Enjoy!
Notes
- For a healthier version, drain some of the bacon grease and use olive oil instead.
- Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist.
- Serve as a side dish with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or sausages.
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