This Fried Cabbage recipe combines crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and tender cabbage infused with garlic and smoky seasonings. Perfect as a hearty side dish or a flavorful standalone, it’s a warm and savory delight that brings comfort to any meal. The crispy bacon topping adds a delightful crunch to every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Flavorful: The combination of bacon, onions, and garlic creates a robust, savory base that transforms humble cabbage into a show-stopping dish.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly yet impressive.
Versatile: Serve it as a side dish, a main course with crusty bread, or even as a low-carb option to replace starchy sides.
Budget-Friendly: Cabbage is an affordable ingredient that feeds a crowd, making this recipe both delicious and economical.
Make-Ahead Option: It reheats beautifully, so you can prepare it in advance for busy nights or gatherings.

Key Ingredients

Bacon: The star of the dish, bacon adds smoky richness and its rendered grease serves as the flavorful cooking fat.

Onion: Caramelized onions add a natural sweetness that balances the savory elements of the dish.

Cabbage: Cored and sliced, cabbage becomes tender and flavorful as it absorbs the bacon and onion goodness.

Garlic: Minced garlic provides an aromatic punch that elevates the dish’s flavor profile.

Spices (Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Paprika): A mix of spices adds depth and complexity, with paprika lending a subtle warmth and color to the dish.

Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below

Ingredients

6 slices of bacon, chopped

1 large onion, diced

1 large head of cabbage, cored and sliced

1 1/2 teaspoons salt, or to taste

1 teaspoon ground black pepper

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/8 teaspoon paprika

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Bacon

Heat the Pot:
Place a large pot over medium heat.
Cook the Bacon:
Add chopped bacon and cook, stirring occasionally, until crispy and golden, about 10 minutes.
Drain the Bacon:
Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
Reserve the Grease:
Leave the rendered bacon grease in the pot—it will add rich flavor to the dish.

2. Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add the Aromatics:
To the pot with the bacon grease, add 1 diced onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic.
Sauté Until Translucent:
Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and lightly caramelized.

3. Add the Cabbage

Prepare the Cabbage:
Add 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced, to the pot.
Mix Thoroughly:
Stir well to coat the cabbage evenly with the bacon grease and aromatic base.
Cook Down:
Allow the cabbage to soften slightly, cooking for 5-7 minutes while stirring occasionally.

4. Season the Dish

Add Seasonings:
Sprinkle with:
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste.
Mix Evenly:
Stir to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.

5. Simmer for Flavor

Reduce Heat:
Lower the heat to a simmer and cover the pot with a lid.
Simmer Slowly:
Let the mixture cook for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Check for Tenderness:
The cabbage should be tender and well-infused with the flavors of bacon, onion, and garlic.

6. Add the Bacon

Finish with Bacon:
Crumble the reserved crispy bacon and sprinkle it over the cooked cabbage.
Combine:
Stir gently to incorporate the bacon evenly throughout the dish.

7. Serve

Serve Hot:
Dish out the fried cabbage while it’s hot. It pairs perfectly with grilled meats, roasted poultry, or as a hearty side.
Store Leftovers:
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Hearty Pairings: Serve alongside grilled pork chops, roasted chicken, or pan-seared sausage for a satisfying meal.
Comfort Food Classic: Pair with cornbread or mashed potatoes for a Southern-inspired feast.
Low-Carb Meal: Enjoy on its own or with cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly option.
Holiday Side: A perfect addition to Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners as a unique alternative to traditional vegetable sides.

Storage/Meal Prep Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Freezing: While freezing may slightly alter the texture of the cabbage, you can freeze this dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the dish up to 1 day in advance, then reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to refresh its moisture.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for some heat.
Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and sauté the onions and garlic in olive oil or butter. For added depth, sprinkle smoked paprika for a hint of smoky flavor.
Add Protein: Turn this side dish into a main course by stirring in cooked sausage, diced ham, or shredded chicken.
Extra Veggies: Include shredded carrots or thinly sliced bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
Herbaceous Twist: Stir in chopped fresh parsley, thyme, or dill just before serving for a fresh, herbal note.

Conclusion

This Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic is a savory delight that will elevate any meal. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can create bold, satisfying flavors when cooked with care. Perfect for cozy family dinners, holiday feasts, or meal prep, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.

So grab a head of cabbage, crisp up some bacon, and enjoy the comforting warmth of this Southern classic. You’ll be amazed at how easy and delicious it is to make!