If you’re looking to add a comforting, flavorful, and downright delicious side to your dinner table, this Easy Fried Cabbage Recipe is going to be your new best friend. Tender green cabbage sautéed with crispy bacon, sweet onions, and just the right amount of garlic creates a simple dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight veggie or a Southern-inspired classic, this recipe brings together everyday ingredients that transform ordinary cabbage into something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Easy Fried Cabbage Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role— from the smoky bacon that adds incredible depth, to the fresh cabbage providing a satisfying crunch and vibrant color. Together, these essentials create that perfect balance of flavor and texture.
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped: The star ingredient offering crunch and earthiness.
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped: Adds smoky richness and crispy texture.
- 1 small yellow onion, diced: Brings sweetness and aroma when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with warm, savory notes.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional): Helps sauté the cabbage if you want extra richness or for a vegetarian tweak.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides just enough subtle heat and earthiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional): Adds a gentle smoky depth and warm color.
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a touch of heat to liven things up.
How to Make Easy Fried Cabbage Recipe
Step 1: Crisp the Bacon
Start by heating your skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat and add your chopped bacon. Cook it until it’s beautifully crisped and golden brown—this usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. The bacon fat left behind will be your flavor base, so don’t drain it! Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside for later. This step sets the foundation for a rich, savory taste that defines the dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Next, toss in your diced onion into that luscious bacon fat. Stir and cook until the onions turn translucent and soft, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds—just enough to release its fragrance without burning. The sweetness of the onion combined with garlic creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen and signals the deliciousness underway.
Step 3: Cook the Cabbage
This is where the magic happens. Add your chopped cabbage to the pan along with the olive oil if you’re using it, plus salt, black pepper, and paprika. Toss everything thoroughly so each cabbage piece is coated with the flavorful fat and spices. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 10 to 15 minutes until the cabbage softens and edges begin to caramelize lightly. This slow sauté turns ordinary cabbage into a caramel-kissed delight bursting with flavor.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
It’s time to bring back the crispy bacon to the pan. Stir it in gently so its smoky, crunchy goodness marries perfectly with the tender cabbage. Allow everything to cook together for another 2 minutes, letting the flavors meld. Taste and adjust your seasoning if needed—this last step ensures every bite is perfectly balanced and full of savory satisfaction.
How to Serve Easy Fried Cabbage Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Easy Fried Cabbage Recipe, consider sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or chives on top for a fresh, vibrant note. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten up the flavors beautifully, adding a touch of zing that contrasts the richness. If you love a bit of heat, a light dusting of red pepper flakes on top is always a tasty choice.
Side Dishes
This fried cabbage pairs effortlessly with so many meals. Serve it alongside grilled sausages or fried chicken to keep the Southern comfort food vibes going strong. It also makes a fantastic companion to cornbread or mashed potatoes, turning any dinner into a hearty feast everyone will love.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, pile the Easy Fried Cabbage Recipe atop toasted rustic bread for an open-faced sandwich perfect for a casual lunch. You can also toss it into grain bowls with quinoa or brown rice to add crunch and flavor, making any bowl a standout dish. Plus, using it as a colorful side on your plate brings a pop of green and irresistible aroma that’s sure to delight guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover fried cabbage tastes just as good the next day! Place any remaining cabbage in an airtight container and keep it refrigerated for up to 4 days. The flavors will even have time to meld and deepen, making your next meal just as satisfying.
Freezing
This Easy Fried Cabbage Recipe can be frozen, but because cabbage softens quite a bit upon freezing, the texture may become a bit more delicate. If you plan to freeze it, portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. It’s perfect for quick meal prep and convenience without sacrificing flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the cabbage gently in a skillet over medium heat to keep some crispness, stirring occasionally. Microwaving works too but can make the cabbage a little softer. Add a splash of water or olive oil if needed to keep it moist and flavorful during reheating.
FAQs
Can I make this Easy Fried Cabbage Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply skip the bacon and use butter or olive oil instead. To capture that smoky flavor, add smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke—your cabbage will still taste rich and full-bodied.
What type of cabbage is best for frying?
Green cabbage is ideal for this recipe because it holds up well during cooking and offers a mild, slightly sweet flavor. You could experiment with savoy or red cabbage for variations, but green cabbage is classic and easy to find.
Is this dish spicy?
The recipe is naturally mild, but if you love a kick, you can add red pepper flakes either while cooking or as a garnish at the end. Feel free to adjust the spice level to suit your taste buds.
How long does it take to prepare?
This Easy Fried Cabbage Recipe is a quick gem, with a total time of about 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a tasty side without fuss.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in shredded carrots, diced bell peppers, or even a handful of chopped fresh herbs to customize it. The recipe is versatile and welcomes your creativity.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Easy Fried Cabbage Recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. It’s a simple, crowd-pleasing dish that turns humble ingredients into something truly memorable. Perfect as a weeknight side or a flavorful addition to any meal, I encourage you to cook it, share it, and enjoy every single bite!
Print
Easy Fried Cabbage Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This easy fried cabbage recipe is a delicious and hearty Southern-style side dish featuring tender, sautéed cabbage cooked with crispy bacon, onions, and garlic. Perfectly seasoned and quick to prepare, it offers a flavorful way to enjoy cabbage with a smoky, savory twist.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Meat
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
Seasonings & Others
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, add the chopped bacon and cook until crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the pan and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan for flavor.
- Sauté Onions: Add the diced onion to the bacon fat in the pan and sauté until translucent and softened, about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to let it burn.
- Cook Cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the pan along with olive oil (if additional fat is needed), salt, pepper, and paprika. Toss everything to coat the cabbage evenly with the fat and seasonings. Continue cooking uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes until the cabbage is tender and lightly caramelized.
- Combine Bacon and Finish: Stir the reserved crispy bacon back into the cooked cabbage and cook for an additional 2 minutes to let the flavors meld. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve Hot: Remove from heat and serve the fried cabbage hot as a flavorful side dish to your favorite main courses.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and substitute with butter or additional olive oil.
- Add smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke to imitate the smoky flavor without meat.
- Pair this side dish with cornbread or grilled sausages for a complete Southern-inspired meal.
