If you’re craving a side dish that’s both hearty and flavorful, look no further than Fried Cabbage with Bacon. This Southern classic is a favorite in our household, and let me tell you, it’s as easy to make as it is delicious. The cabbage gets tender and slightly caramelized, while the bacon adds a crispy, savory punch. A little mustard and smoked paprika bring everything together, creating the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky.
What’s So Great About Fried Cabbage with Bacon?
Let’s be real: cabbage doesn’t always get the love it deserves. But when it’s fried with bacon, onions, and garlic, it’s transformed into something special. The best part? You can make it in less than 30 minutes, making it an ideal side dish for busy weeknights or when you want something comforting but don’t have a lot of time.
The bacon grease infuses the cabbage with flavor, while the caramelized edges give it that irresistible bite. It’s simple, it’s flavorful, and it’s downright addictive.
What to Serve with Fried Cabbage
Fried cabbage with bacon can easily stand alone as a side, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of proteins. Try it alongside crispy baked chicken thighs, grilled steak, or slow-cooked pulled pork. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, it’s also great with grilled fish like salmon or shrimp.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (though I’m not sure you will!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen it up.
Why You’ll Love Fried Cabbage with Bacon
This dish is one of those recipes that brings comfort with every bite. The smoky bacon, tender cabbage, and savory seasonings make it hard to resist. Whether you’re making it for a casual dinner or serving it at a holiday meal, fried cabbage with bacon is sure to be a hit. It’s quick, simple, and packed with flavor—what’s not to love?
Ingredients for Fried Cabbage with Bacon
You don’t need a lot of ingredients to make this dish shine. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Bacon: A few strips of bacon are key to adding that smoky, crispy flavor.
- Onion & Garlic: These aromatics are what make the dish smell amazing as it cooks.
- Stone Ground Mustard: I like to use stone ground mustard for its tangy depth, but Dijon works just as well.
- Smoked Paprika: A little bit of smoked paprika brings a hint of smokiness and adds a layer of complexity.
- Cabbage: You’ll want a head of cabbage, sliced and chopped. Green cabbage is typically used, but any cabbage will do.
- Salt & Pepper: Always season to taste, and be sure to use fresh black pepper—it makes a difference.
How to Make Fried Cabbage with Bacon
This recipe is super straightforward, and before you know it, you’ll have a delicious, comforting side dish that’s perfect for any meal.
- Cook the Bacon: Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon strips and cook until crispy. Once the bacon is done, remove it from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Leave about two tablespoons of bacon grease in the pan.
- Sauté the Onion: In the same pan, add the diced onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Add Garlic and Seasonings: Next, toss in the minced garlic, stone ground mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it cook for about a minute, just long enough for the garlic to become fragrant.
- Cook the Cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the pan and stir it into the seasonings. Cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cabbage will soften, and some of it will caramelize at the edges, which is exactly what you want.
- Finish with Bacon: Once the cabbage is tender and slightly golden, stir the crispy bacon back into the pan. Give it a final toss to combine everything, and it’s ready to serve.
Fried Cabbage with Bacon
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
- 6 pieces of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons stone ground mustard (or Dijon mustard)
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 head of cabbage, sliced and chopped
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving about two tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet.
- Sauté the Onion: Add the diced onion to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes until soft.
- Add Garlic and Seasonings: Stir in the garlic, mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
- Cook the Cabbage: Add the sliced cabbage and stir everything together. Cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is soft and slightly caramelized.
- Add the Bacon: Stir the crispy bacon back into the cabbage and cook for another minute. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Making Perfect Fried Cabbage
- Adjust the Heat: If you like your cabbage with a bit more kick, feel free to add some red pepper flakes or a little extra smoked paprika.
- Add Sweetness: For a sweet twist, you can drizzle a little honey over the cabbage while it’s cooking. A touch of coconut sugar works well, too.
- Try Different Meats: This dish is also great with some added sausage. Smoked sausage or kielbasa would both be delicious options.
