Introduction
Let me tell you—nothing says comfort quite like a skillet full of Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon. The first time I made it, I was standing in my grandmother’s kitchen, a cast-iron pan popping away while she handed me a wooden spoon and said, “Don’t stir too much, just let it get cozy.”
That’s the magic of this dish—simple ingredients, rich flavor, and a scent that fills your home with pure Southern warmth. The crispy bacon gives the cabbage a smoky hug, while onions and garlic bring out a sweetness that makes every bite sing. Whether you’re serving it beside fried chicken, pork chops, or just a hunk of warm cornbread, this dish has that down-home soul that keeps folks coming back for seconds.
What Makes This Recipe Special
- Smoky & Savory: Bacon fat gives every cabbage strand a deep, irresistible flavor.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 25 minutes with just one skillet.
- Versatile: Serve as a side, a main, or even mix it into pasta or rice.
- Viral Classic: This Southern favorite is trending again—comfort food is back, y’all.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cabbage:
- 1 large head green cabbage, cored and chopped
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, but delicious)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for a little kick)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon brown sugar for caramelized depth
- A drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor
Tools You’ll Need
- Large cast-iron skillet or deep sauté pan
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon
- Slotted spoon or tongs
- Paper towels for draining bacon
How to Make Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon
- Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet, fry bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside on paper towels, keeping about two tablespoons of the drippings in the pan. - Sauté Onions & Garlic:
Add sliced onions to the hot drippings. Cook until they’re soft and slightly golden, then stir in the garlic for about 30 seconds. - Add the Cabbage:
Toss in the chopped cabbage. It’ll look like a mountain at first, but it’ll shrink as it cooks. Stir occasionally until the cabbage starts to wilt and caramelize on the edges—around 10–12 minutes. - Season & Simmer:
Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for brightness. If you like a touch of sweetness, stir in the brown sugar now. - Combine & Serve:
Return the crispy bacon to the pan, give it a quick toss, and taste for seasoning. Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of hot sauce if you’re feeling bold.
Quick Ingredient Swap Table
| Ingredient | Swap Option | Flavor Note |
|---|---|---|
| Bacon | Turkey bacon or pancetta | Lighter or richer smoky taste |
| Green cabbage | Savoy or Napa cabbage | Milder and tender texture |
| Apple cider vinegar | Lemon juice | Slightly fresher tang |
| Onion | Shallots | Sweet and delicate flavor |
| Red pepper flakes | Smoked paprika | Smoky warmth without the heat |
What to Serve With Fried Cabbage and Bacon
- Crispy Southern Fried Chicken – Golden and juicy, the perfect partner for cabbage’s smoky depth.
- Buttermilk Cornbread – Use our recipe from Easy Skillet Cornbread for the ultimate side.
- Pan-Seared Pork Chops – Savory, satisfying, and quick to make.
You can also try pairing it with Honey Butter Cornbread Muffins, or browse more Southern sides on our Comfort Food Collection.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Don’t overcook the cabbage. You want tender, not soggy—keep a bit of crunch for texture.
- Use thick-cut bacon. It holds up beautifully and adds that satisfying chew.
- Let it brown a little. Those crispy caramelized bits? That’s where the flavor lives.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for the best texture (microwave works too, but you’ll lose that crisp edge).
FAQ Section
1. What meat goes well with fried cabbage and bacon?
Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon pairs beautifully with fried chicken, sausage, or pork chops.
2. Can I make this recipe without bacon?
Yes! Try smoked turkey or a little butter with liquid smoke for similar flavor.
3. How do you keep cabbage from getting soggy?
Cook over medium-high heat and avoid covering the skillet—steam makes it limp.
4. Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
You can, but note it’s a bit firmer and will color the dish slightly purple.
5. Is fried cabbage with bacon keto-friendly?
Yes! It’s low in carbs, high in flavor, and fits perfectly into a keto meal plan.
6. How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to three days, though it’s tastiest fresh from the skillet.
Conclusion
Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon is proof that humble ingredients can create magic in a skillet. It’s cozy, smoky, and wildly satisfying—just the kind of meal you’ll make again and again.
If you whip this up, tag us on Instagram or TikTok and share your creation! And don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more Southern comfort recipes straight from our kitchen to yours.
Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon
Equipment
- Large cast-iron skillet or deep sauté pan
- sharp knife
- Wooden Spoon
- slotted spoon or tongs
- Paper towels For draining bacon
Ingredients
- 1 large head green cabbage, cored and chopped
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 0.5 tsp brown sugar (optional)
- Drizzle of hot sauce (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, fry bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside on paper towels. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pan.
- Add sliced onions to the hot drippings. Cook until softened and golden. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add chopped cabbage. Stir occasionally and cook until wilted and lightly browned on the edges, about 10–12 minutes.
- Season with salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and optional vinegar and brown sugar. Stir to coat evenly.
- Return bacon to the skillet and toss everything together. Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon or dash of hot sauce.
