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Fried Cabbage with Bacon

savory
/sides
/cabbage
2 min read

This hearty, soul-warming dish transforms humble cabbage into something truly special. The combination of crispy, smoky bacon with tender cabbage creates a perfect balance of flavors, while a touch of sugar adds subtle sweetness that complements the natural flavors of the vegetables. Ready in under 30 minutes, this simple side dish pairs beautifully with almost any main course, from roasted chicken to grilled pork chops. It's comfort food at its finest – unpretentious, satisfying, and deliciously addictive.

Notes​

  • total prep time: 10 minutes
  • total cook time: 20 minutes
  • Makes 4-6 servings
  • Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days

Equipment​

  • Large skillet or Dutch oven (12-inch recommended)
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Slotted spoon
  • Measuring spoons
  • Paper towels (for draining bacon)
  • Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula

Ingredients​

  • 8 slices bacon, chopped (about 8 oz)
  • 1 medium head cabbage (about 2 pounds), cored and chopped into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (optional, for tanginess)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
tip

Customize this recipe by substituting the bacon for sausage--or go vegetarian by omitting the meat altogether and using 3 tablespoons of olive oil instead!

Step-by-Step Instructions​

  1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.

  2. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels, leaving the bacon grease in the pan.

  3. Add the diced onion to the bacon grease and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

  4. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

  5. Add the chopped cabbage and butter to the pan. Stir to coat the cabbage in the bacon grease and butter.

  6. Sprinkle the sugar evenly over the cabbage and stir to incorporate.

  7. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

  8. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still has a slight crunch.

  9. If using apple cider vinegar, add it now and stir to combine.

  10. Return the reserved bacon to the pan and stir to combine.

  11. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed before serving hot, garnished with fresh parsley if using.

Tips & Variations​

  • For a sweeter flavor, add a diced apple during the last 5 minutes of cooking
  • Try using smoked paprika for an extra layer of smoky flavor
  • Add 1/4 cup of chicken broth for a more moist result
  • For a German twist, add 1 tablespoon of caraway seeds with the cabbage
  • Mix in 1 cup of cooked egg noodles at the end for a complete one-pan meal
  • Substitute red cabbage for a colorful twist (note: cooking time may vary slightly)
  • Garnish with a dollop of sour cream for added richness