Southern Fried Cabbage with Crispy Bacon – A Simple Comfort Food Favorite
There’s nothing quite like a skillet of Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon when you’re craving a hearty, flavorful side dish. Tender cabbage is cooked with crispy bacon, sweet onions, and a touch of garlic until perfectly caramelized. It’s an easy, budget-friendly recipe that comes together in one pan and pairs beautifully with everything from roasted chicken to pork chops or cornbread.
Ingredients
6 slices bacon, chopped
1 medium head green cabbage, cored and chopped
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness)
½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Instructions
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 8–10 minutes.
Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet.
Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. Toss well to coat it in the bacon grease.
Season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes if using.
Cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and lightly caramelized. Add the butter during the last few minutes for an even richer flavor.
Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and stir everything together. Cook for another minute, then remove from the heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this fried cabbage hot alongside grilled sausage, roasted chicken, pork chops, meatloaf, or enjoy it with warm cornbread for a satisfying Southern-style meal.
Tips
Add sliced smoked sausage for a complete one-pan dinner.
A splash of apple cider vinegar at the end brightens the flavors.
Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat beautifully in a skillet.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4–6
