Introduction
If there’s one dish that smells like home, it’s Fried Cabbage with Bacon. The moment that smoky aroma fills the kitchen, I’m right back in my grandma’s house, standing barefoot by her old cast-iron skillet. She’d hum to herself as she stirred the sizzling bacon and tender cabbage, always saying, “Good things don’t have to be fancy, sugar — they just have to taste like love.”
That’s exactly what this recipe delivers. It’s buttery, savory, and melt-in-your-mouth tender with just the right touch of smoky crunch. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just making a cozy weeknight dinner, this Southern favorite is comfort food at its best — easy, affordable, and unforgettable.
What Makes This Fried Cabbage with Bacon Special
- Smoky Flavor: Crispy bacon gives every bite that rich, smoky depth you can’t fake.
- Quick & Easy: Only 25 minutes from pan to plate.
- Versatile: Works as a side or a full meal with cornbread or rice.
- Viral Favorite: This humble dish keeps trending on TikTok and Pinterest — proof that simple food still wins hearts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cabbage:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 medium green cabbage, cored and chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra depth)
Optional Add-ins:
- A pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick
- A splash of apple cider vinegar for brightness
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet or cast-iron pan
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Paper towels (for draining bacon)
How to Make Fried Cabbage with Bacon
- Fry the Bacon:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped bacon and cook until it’s crisp and golden. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, keeping about 2 tablespoons of the drippings in the pan. - Sauté the Onion:
Add diced onion to the bacon drippings. Stir often until the onion turns soft and slightly golden — this builds that incredible Southern base flavor. - Add the Cabbage:
Toss in the chopped cabbage, butter, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir well so everything gets coated with that buttery bacon goodness. - Cook Until Tender:
Cover the skillet and let the cabbage steam for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally. It should shrink down and become tender but not mushy. - Add Bacon & Finish:
Stir the crispy bacon back into the pan. Sprinkle with smoked paprika or red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. - Serve & Savor:
Enjoy hot as a main or a side. It pairs beautifully with fried chicken, pork chops, or just a slice of warm cornbread.
Quick Ingredient Swap Table
| Ingredient | Swap Option | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Bacon | Turkey bacon or smoked sausage | Lighter or smoky flavor |
| Butter | Olive oil | Dairy-free option |
| Green cabbage | Savoy or red cabbage | Texture and color variation |
| Onion | Shallots | Sweeter flavor |
What to Serve With Fried Cabbage with Bacon
- Cornbread Muffins: Soft and slightly sweet — the perfect scoop partner.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy comfort next to smoky cabbage.
- Southern Fried Chicken: A crispy contrast that turns dinner into a feast.
(Try pairing this with our Southern Honey Butter Cornbread for the ultimate cozy meal!)
Tips for Perfect Results
- Don’t rush the onions. Letting them caramelize slightly adds tons of flavor.
- Use thick-cut bacon. It gives better texture and holds up after cooking.
- Add a splash of vinegar. Balances the richness and makes flavors pop.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a skillet with a teaspoon of butter — it brings back that just-cooked flavor.
FAQ Section
1. Can I make Fried Cabbage with Bacon ahead of time?
Yes! It reheats beautifully. Just store it in the fridge and warm in a skillet before serving.
2. How do I make it vegetarian?
Skip the bacon and use smoked paprika or liquid smoke with olive oil for that same depth.
3. Can I freeze Fried Cabbage with Bacon?
You can — just cool it completely, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in a skillet.
4. Is Fried Cabbage with Bacon keto-friendly?
Absolutely! It’s low-carb and high in fat — perfect for a keto meal plan.
5. Why is my cabbage watery?
You may have covered it too long or added too much salt early. Next time, cook uncovered for the last few minutes.
6. What kind of bacon works best?
Thick-cut smoked bacon gives the richest flavor and best crunch.
Conclusion
There’s something magical about a recipe that tastes like home but fits into a busy weekday. Fried Cabbage with Bacon is exactly that — no frills, no fuss, just pure Southern comfort in a skillet. Whether you’re new to this dish or it’s part of your family tradition, it’s one of those meals that brings everyone to the table and keeps them there a little longer.
If you try it, tag your creation on Instagram or TikTok with #EasyMealsToPrep — I’d love to see your spin! Don’t forget to subscribe for more quick, heartwarming recipes just like this one.
Fried Cabbage with Bacon: The Southern Comfort Classic Everyone’s Craving
Equipment
- Large skillet or cast-iron pan
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Paper towels for draining bacon
Ingredients
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 medium green cabbage, cored and chopped
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder
- 0.5 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 splash apple cider vinegar (optional)
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped bacon and cook until it’s crisp and golden. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, keeping about 2 tablespoons of the drippings in the pan.
- Add diced onion to the bacon drippings. Stir often until the onion turns soft and slightly golden — this builds that incredible Southern base flavor.
- Toss in the chopped cabbage, butter, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir well so everything gets coated with that buttery bacon goodness.
- Cover the skillet and let the cabbage steam for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally. It should shrink down and become tender but not mushy.
- Stir the crispy bacon back into the pan. Sprinkle with smoked paprika or red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
- Enjoy hot as a main or a side. It pairs beautifully with fried chicken, pork chops, or just a slice of warm cornbread.
