Fried Cabbage with Bacon is a true Southern delight, offering a symphony of flavors that turns simple ingredients into a memorable side dish. It combines the sweet tenderness of cabbage with the savory richness of bacon, creating a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re looking to dress up a weeknight dinner or bring something special to a gathering, this recipe fits the bill perfectly.

This dish cooks up quickly and uses everyday ingredients, making it an ideal choice for a no-fuss meal that feels like you’ve put extra effort into it. The combination of garlic, onion, and bacon melds beautifully with the mild flavor of cabbage, enhanced further by a touch of apple cider vinegar and a hint of brown sugar. It’s affordable, delicious, and sure to be a hit!

Fried Cabbage with Bacon Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Servings: 6 side dish servings
Calories: 328 kcal per serving

Ingredients:

12 oz thick-cut bacon, pork or turkey, cut into ½ inch pieces
1 small onion, thinly sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 head of cabbage, cored and cut into 2-inch pieces
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon light brown sugar, packed
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons salted butter
Instructions:

Cook the Bacon:

In a large cast iron skillet or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 12-15 minutes. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. If you prefer, you can also cook the bacon in the oven for a hands-off approach.

Prepare the Aromatics:

Drain off half of the bacon grease from the skillet to keep things a bit lighter, leaving just enough to cook the onions and garlic. Add the onions to the skillet and sauté until they turn translucent.

Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant, ensuring not to let it burn.

Add the Cabbage:

Toss in the chopped cabbage along with the apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together to coat the cabbage evenly with the seasonings and cook for about 7-10 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.

Finish the Dish:

Return the crispy bacon to the skillet. Stir in the butter and cook for another minute to let all the flavors meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve Warm:

Serve your Fried Cabbage with Bacon warm, perfect alongside any main dish or as a hearty addition to your meal.

Storage Tips:

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat on the stove to enjoy again.

This Fried Cabbage with Bacon is not only easy to make but also packs a flavorful punch that will bring comfort and a bit of Southern charm to your table. Enjoy the rich flavors and the simple pleasure of a well-made side dish. Bon appétit!