Fried Cabbage with Onions and Bacon

Fried Cabbage with Onions and Bacon is a savory and comforting dish that brings together the crispiness of bacon, the sweetness of onions, and the hearty texture of cabbage. It’s quick to prepare and perfect as a side dish or a light meal.

The first time I made fried cabbage with onions and bacon was for a family dinner. My grandmother, who grew up on farm-fresh ingredients, always talked about how her mother would make something similar. As the aroma filled the kitchen, it transported us back to simpler times, and the entire dish was devoured before I could even set the table properly.

Why You’ll Love this Fried Cabbage with Onions and Bacon Recipe

Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes.
Versatile: Works as a side dish, a topping for baked potatoes, or even a filling for wraps.
Flavorful: The combination of bacon, onions, and cabbage is simple yet packed with flavor.
Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable, everyday ingredients available year-round.

Ingredient Notes

Cabbage: Use green cabbage for its mild flavor and tender texture when cooked.
Onion: Yellow or sweet onions add a subtle sweetness that complements the dish.
Bacon: Provides a smoky flavor and crispy texture; reserve the grease for added richness.
Garlic: Enhances the dish with a fragrant, savory depth.
Seasonings: Onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper bring balance to the flavors.

How to Make Fried Cabbage with Onions and Bacon Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Fry the bacon in a large skillet until crispy. Remove the bacon, let it cool, and crumble it. Reserve the bacon grease in the skillet for added flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion
Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the bacon grease. Cook over medium heat until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Cabbage
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet, stirring well to coat it in the bacon grease.

Step 4: Simmer the Cabbage
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and allow the cabbage to steam and soften for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Season and Serve
Uncover the skillet, season the cabbage with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, then stir in the crumbled bacon. Serve warm.

Storage Options

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to preserve texture.
Freezer: While not ideal, you can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy kick.
Include diced bell peppers for extra color and sweetness.
Use turkey bacon or a plant-based alternative for a lighter version.
Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor.

What to Serve with Fried Cabbage with Onions and Bacon

Roasted Potatoes: A hearty side that pairs beautifully with the savory flavors.
Grilled Sausage: Complements the smokiness of the bacon.
Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up any juices left in the pan.
Eggs: Serve alongside scrambled or fried eggs for a satisfying breakfast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
Yes, red cabbage works, but it has a slightly firmer texture and a bolder flavor.

How do I keep the cabbage from getting mushy?
Avoid overcooking; simmer until just tender and keep an eye on the texture.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Substitute the bacon with smoked tempeh or omit it entirely, using olive oil instead of bacon grease.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to retain the texture and flavor.

A warm and hearty dish with tender cabbage, crispy bacon, and sweet onions, seasoned to perfection. This recipe delivers comfort food at its finest, guaranteed to become a family favorite.