Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Garlic & Onion

Few side dishes strike the perfect balance between comfort food and bold flavor quite like Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Garlic & Onion. This dish transforms a simple head of cabbage into a smoky, savory masterpiece, infused with the richness of crispy bacon, the sweetness of caramelized onion, and the irresistible aroma of fresh garlic. It’s rustic, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor, making it a beloved favorite in Southern kitchens and beyond.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight side dish, a hearty vegetable to complement roasted meats, or a stand-alone comfort meal, this recipe delivers. It’s the kind of dish that disappears fast from the skillet—proof of just how irresistible it is.

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Ingredients and Their Roles

1 medium head of green cabbage – The star of the dish. When fried, cabbage softens beautifully while still maintaining a slight bite, absorbing the smoky bacon drippings for maximum flavor.

6 slices of thick-cut bacon – Provides both a crispy texture and rendered fat that becomes the flavor base for the entire recipe.

1 large onion (yellow or sweet), sliced – Adds natural sweetness and depth, balancing the smokiness of the bacon.

3 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the dish with a rich, aromatic punch that elevates the flavor profile.

2 tablespoons bacon drippings or butter – Enhances the richness and prevents sticking while frying.

1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Optional, but it boosts the smoky undertone for a Southern-style touch.

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.

A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional) – For those who enjoy a subtle kick of heat.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the cabbage – Remove any tough outer leaves. Cut the cabbage into quarters, remove the core, and slice into medium-thick shreds.

2. Cook the bacon – In a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, cook the bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove and set aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pan.

3. Sauté onion and garlic – Add sliced onion to the hot drippings and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened and lightly golden. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Fry the cabbage – Add the shredded cabbage to the pan. Stir well to coat in the bacon drippings, then season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender with slightly crispy edges.

5. Finish with bacon – Crumble the cooked bacon and stir it back into the cabbage. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

6. Serve hot – Plate immediately while the cabbage is smoky, tender, and full of flavor.

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Why This Recipe is Loved

Quick & Easy – Minimal prep and a short cook time mean this dish is ready in under 30 minutes.

Affordable Ingredients – Cabbage is inexpensive but transforms into a gourmet-tasting dish with just a few pantry staples.

Comforting Flavor – The smoky, garlicky, savory notes make it taste indulgent while still being packed with vegetables.

Versatile – Works as both a side dish or a hearty, low-carb main course.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Fried Cabbage

Use a cast-iron skillet for the best caramelization and flavor development.

Don’t overcrowd the pan—allowing space ensures the cabbage fries instead of steaming.

For extra richness, add a splash of chicken broth while frying.

To keep some crunch, cook the cabbage only until tender-crisp instead of fully soft.

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Serving Suggestions

This fried cabbage with bacon, garlic & onion pairs beautifully with:

Roast chicken or pork chops for a hearty dinner.

Grilled sausages or smoked ham for a true Southern-inspired feast.

As a low-carb alternative to pasta or potatoes alongside steak or fish.

Topped with a fried egg for a simple but satisfying breakfast-for-dinner option.

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Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dish that’s simple to make, budget-friendly, and bursting with flavor, this Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Garlic & Onion recipe is a must-try. It’s the kind of recipe that proves humble ingredients can create extraordinary results. Crispy bacon, gold

en onions, and tender cabbage come together for a dish that’s both rustic and irresistibly delicious.