Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Cabbage and Bacon
Time
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 5–6 hours (LOW) or 3–4 hours (HIGH)
Servings
4–6 servings
Ingredients
1 medium green cabbage (about 1–1.2 kg), cut into 6–8 wedges
12 oz (340 g) thick-cut smoked bacon, cut into 5 cm pieces
4 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper (plus more to taste)
Instructions
1. Prepare the cabbage
Remove any tough outer leaves.
Cut cabbage into quarters, remove the core, then cut into 6–8 wedges.
Keep wedges intact so they don’t fall apart while cooking.
2. Layer in the slow cooker
Place cabbage wedges into a 5–6 quart slow cooker.
Arrange them snugly, standing up if possible.
It’s okay if they overlap slightly.
3. Add the bacon
Tuck bacon pieces in between the cabbage layers.
Scatter the rest on top.
This helps flavor spread evenly.
4. Add butter & seasoning
Dot butter evenly over everything.
Sprinkle black pepper across the top.
5. Cook
Cover and cook:
LOW for 5–6 hours (best flavor)
HIGH for 3–4 hours
No need to add liquid — cabbage releases its own juices.
6. Finish & serve
Once cabbage is tender and buttery, gently spoon some juices over the top.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve hot with plenty of that rich broth.
Serving Ideas
This dish is amazing with:
Mashed potatoes
White rice
Buttered noodles
Crusty bread or cornbread
Tips
Don’t overcook or cabbage may become too soft.
Thick-cut bacon works best for texture.
For extra flavor, lightly brown the bacon before adding (optional).
Optional Add-Ons (if you want to upgrade it)
1 chopped onion (adds sweetness)
2 cloves garlic (more depth)
Splash of apple cider vinegar (balances richness)
