There’s nothing quite like the combination of crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and tender fried cabbage to bring warmth and comfort to the dinner table.

This Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic is a simple yet flavor-packed dish that pairs the smoky, salty taste of bacon with the mild sweetness of sautéed cabbage.

It’s an easy-to-make one-pan dish that works as a side or even a main course, packed with bold flavors and hearty textures.

Here’s Why You’ll Love My Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic

This dish is the perfect balance of smoky, savory, and slightly sweet flavors. The crispy bacon adds richness, while the onions and garlic provide a fragrant depth that enhances the tender cabbage.

It’s an easy, budget-friendly recipe that uses simple ingredients, yet delivers incredible taste. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, making cleanup a breeze.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight side or a flavorful addition to a holiday meal, this fried cabbage will quickly become a favorite!

What To Serve With Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic

This dish pairs well with a variety of main courses and sides. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, pork chops, or roasted beef for a hearty meal.

It’s also a great complement to Southern classics like cornbread, mashed potatoes, or skillet cornbread.

If you’re keeping it low-carb, this dish makes a satisfying meal on its own or pairs well with grilled sausage or pan-seared fish.

Tips for the Best Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic

For the best results, use thick-cut bacon for more crunch and a richer smoky flavor. When cooking the bacon, render the fat slowly to allow for maximum crispiness.

Be sure to sauté the onions until they caramelize slightly, as this will add a natural sweetness to the dish.

Don’t overcook the cabbage—you want it tender but still slightly crisp, not mushy. Lastly, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a nice hint of spice if you like a little heat.

Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic
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Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic

Recipe by JoanneCourse: SideCuisine: Southern, Comfort FoodDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

20

minutes
Calories per serving

320

kcal

Ingredients

  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped

  • 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped

  • 1 large onion, diced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

  • 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for added richness)

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or parsley (for garnish)

Directions

  • Cook the Bacon:
  • Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat.
  • Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pan.
  • Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
  • In the same skillet with bacon grease, add the diced onions and cook until they become soft and caramelized, about 5 minutes.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.
  • Cook the Cabbage:
  • Add the chopped cabbage to the pan, tossing to coat in the bacon fat.
  • Season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.
  • Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp.
  • Finish the Dish:
  • Drizzle with apple cider vinegar and stir in butter if using.
  • Return the cooked bacon to the pan and toss everything together.
  • Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh chives or parsley.
  • Serve:
  • Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy hot as a side dish or main course!

Notes

  • For a lower-fat version, drain some of the bacon grease and use olive oil instead.
  • Want it heartier? Add sliced sausage or cooked ground beef for a full meal.
  • Adjust seasoning to taste—more vinegar for tanginess, more black pepper for spice.

Storage and Warming Leftovers

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
    .
  • Freezing: Not recommended, as the cabbage can become watery when thawed.
    .
  • Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until hot.

Nutritional Information

NutrientAmount per Serving% Daily Value
Calories320 kcal–
Carbohydrates12g4%
Protein10g20%
Fat24g31%
Saturated Fat9g45%
Cholesterol35mg12%
Sodium620mg27%