Sometimes the simplest ingredients make the most unforgettable dishes. Fried Cabbage with Bacon is one of those old-fashioned recipes that turns a humble head of cabbage into a skillet full of smoky, savory comfort food. Growing up, this dish was often on the table whenever cabbage was in season. It’s quick, hearty, and the perfect balance of rich and tangy flavor.
The real magic is in the bacon. As it cooks, the bacon releases flavorful drippings that coat every bite of cabbage, onion, and garlic. Add a splash of vinegar to brighten things up, and you’ve got a side dish that’s both down-home and RIDIC-ULICIOUS.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pan wonder – everything cooks in the same skillet.
- Quick & easy – ready in under 30 minutes.
- Smoky & savory – bacon gives this dish incredible depth.
- Versatile – serve it as a side or add sausage to make it a main.
What Do I Need to Make Fried Cabbage with Bacon?
To make this recipe, you’ll need:
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 medium head green cabbage, cored and chopped
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 Tbsp sugar
- 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar (or balsamic for a sweeter twist) Optional
- ½ tsp salt, or to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
How to Make Fried Cabbage with Bacon
- Cook the Bacon – Start by frying 6 slices of chopped thick-cut bacon in a large skillet until crisp. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, but leave about 2 tablespoons of drippings in the pan.
- Sauté the Onion & Garlic – Add the sliced onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Fry the Cabbage – Toss in the chopped cabbage, then season with sugar, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir often and cook for 10–12 minutes, until the cabbage is tender but not mushy.
- Finish the Dish – Stir in 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar (or balsamic for a richer flavor) -optional. and return the crispy bacon to the skillet. Mix everything well and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve – Dish it up warm with extra bacon sprinkled on top if you’d like.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make fried cabbage without bacon?
Yes! Swap the bacon drippings for 2 tablespoons of butter or olive oil. You’ll lose the smoky flavor, but it’s still delicious.
What meats go well with fried cabbage?
This dish is amazing with smoked pork tenderloin, ham, sausage, or corned beef. You can even add sliced sausage directly into the skillet for a one-pan meal.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely. Fried cabbage reheats well in a skillet with just a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
What to Serve with Fried Cabbage with Bacon
Fried cabbage is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it pairs beautifully with classic comfort foods like:
- Beef Pot Roast – rich and hearty with melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Baked Mac and Cheese – creamy pasta balances the smoky cabbage.
- Homemade Stuffing – crispy, savory, and satisfying.
- Old Fashion Apple Crisp – the perfect sweet finish to your comfort meal.
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Fried Cabbage with Bacon
Ingredients
- 6 slices bacon thick-cut chopped
- 1 medium head green cabbage cored and chopped
- 1 large onion sliced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar or balsamic for a sweeter twist6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 2 Tbsp sugar
- ½ tsp salt or to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes optional
- ½ tsp salt or to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Start by frying 6 slices of chopped thick-cut bacon in a large skillet until crisp. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, but leave about 2 tablespoons of drippings in the pan.
- Toss in the chopped cabbage, then season with sugar, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir often and cook for 10–12 minutes, until the cabbage is tender but not mushy.
- Add the sliced onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar (or balsamic for a richer flavor) -optional. and return the crispy bacon to the skillet. Mix everything well and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Dish it up warm with extra bacon sprinkled on top if you’d like.
Notes
- Vinegar swaps: Apple cider vinegar for tang or balsamic for sweetness.
- Make it a meal: Stir in smoked sausage or diced ham.
- Storage: Keeps in the fridge up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet.
- Color twist: Use red cabbage for a vibrant dish.