Description

This Fried Cabbage with Bacon is the perfect savory side dish or hearty main course. It’s packed with crispy bacon, sautéed onions, and fragrant garlic, all tossed with tender cabbage and just the right amount of seasoning. The combination of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors will make you fall in love with cabbage all over again. It’s quick to prepare, satisfying, and a great way to use up that head of cabbage sitting in your fridge!

Whether you're serving it as a cozy weeknight side or adding a fried egg on top for a full meal, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 6 slices of bacon
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large head of cabbage, cored and sliced
• 1 tablespoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ⅛ teaspoon paprika
• ⅓ cup water

Preparation Method

Start by cooking the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s crispy. Remove it from the pan, crumble it, and set it aside. Keep the bacon grease in the pan—it’s liquid gold and will add a delicious depth of flavor to the cabbage.

In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic in the bacon grease for about 5 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This step builds the flavor foundation for the dish.

Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet, stirring it into the onion and garlic mixture. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage begins to soften. It will release its natural moisture and start to caramelize.

Stir in the crumbled bacon, seasonings (salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika), and ⅓ cup of water. Cover the skillet and let the cabbage cook down for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until it reaches your desired tenderness. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.

Serve the cabbage hot and enjoy it as a side or a main dish. Pair it with cornbread for a southern-style meal, or serve it over rice for a hearty option.

Tips and Conclusion

For extra flavor, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
If you like your cabbage caramelized, cook it a bit longer to achieve a golden-brown color.
Leftovers? No problem! This dish tastes even better the next day.

This Fried Cabbage with Bacon is a comforting dish that’s full of flavor and incredibly easy to make. It’s a great way to turn humble ingredients into something spectacular. Want more delicious recipes like this? Keep an eye out for my next post—and drop your thoughts below! Your feedback motivates my next dish. 👇

Enjoy, and happy cooking! 🥓🥬