Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon & Smoked Sausage
A comforting Southern classic, this hearty fried cabbage is loaded with smoky bacon, savory sausage, and tender, flavorful cabbage. It’s a simple one-pan dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, cozy family dinners, or whenever you’re craving a warm and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
1 large head green cabbage (about 16 cups), roughly chopped
6 ounces bacon, chopped
12 ounces smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
2 teaspoons chicken bouillon powder
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons butter
½ cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Salt, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.
Add the sliced smoked sausage to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides, about 4–5 minutes. Remove and set aside with the bacon.
Stir in the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Add the butter and let it melt. Then add the chopped cabbage in batches, stirring as it wilts down.
Sprinkle in the chicken bouillon powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Toss well to evenly coat the cabbage.
Pour in the chicken broth and apple cider vinegar. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp.
Return the cooked bacon and sausage to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook uncovered for another 3–5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
This Southern fried cabbage is delicious on its own or served alongside:
Cornbread
Mashed potatoes
Steamed rice
Fried chicken or pork chops
A comforting, smoky, and flavor-packed dish that brings classic Southern cooking right to your table!
