Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic – A Soul-Warming Southern Favorite!
This simple, old-fashioned recipe turns humble cabbage into a rich and savory side dish. Fried with crispy bacon, sweet onions, and plenty of garlic, it’s comfort food that smells like home and tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional for color)
- A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional for extra richness)
Instructions
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pan.
- Add sliced onions to the pan and sauté until soft and lightly caramelized, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook another minute.
- Add the chopped cabbage to the pan. Toss everything together, letting the cabbage absorb the flavor.
- Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Stir and let it cook uncovered for about 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage softens and browns at the edges.
- Stir in the cooked bacon and a bit of butter for a richer finish. Cook another minute, then serve warm!
Nutrition (Per Serving – Approx.)
| Calories | 170 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Fat | 13 g |
| Carbs | 9 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 280 mg |
Recipe Summary
| Fried Cabbage with Bacon | |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Servings | 4–6 people |
| Goes Great With | Grilled sausage, pork chops, or cornbread |
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It reheats beautifully in the skillet or microwave.
Q: Is this keto-friendly?
Absolutely. It’s low in carbs and perfect for a keto meal plan.
Q: Can I skip the bacon?
You can! Use olive oil and maybe add mushrooms or smoked paprika for that extra depth.
Q: How do I make it vegetarian?
Swap bacon for smoked tempeh or mushrooms, and use plant-based butter or oil.
This dish is Southern comfort on a plate—simple, hearty, and full of love in every bite.
