With the simple sizzle of bacon and the crunch of fresh cabbage, I found myself transported to the heart of comfort food. There’s a surprising joy in transforming these humble ingredients into a dish that warms both the body and soul. Fried cabbage, paired with perfectly crispy bacon, is a revelation—it’s a meal that can be served as a side or a satisfying main that will leave any fast food cravings in the dust.

Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or an unexpected gathering, this dish brings a wonderful sense of nostalgia while being incredibly easy to whip up. I stumbled upon this recipe while on a mission to reinvent my dinner routine, and let me tell you, it quickly became a family favorite. The rich, smoky flavor combined with the sweetness of caramelized onions makes each bite a delight. So if you’re ready to rediscover the joy of home-cooked meals, join me in creating this savory Fried Cabbage with Bacon—it’s quicker than you think and oh-so-rewarding!

Why is Fried Cabbage a Must-Try?

Comforting, this Fried Cabbage dish brings together familiar flavors that will remind you of home-cooked meals. Quick to prepare, it minimizes time in the kitchen while maximizing taste. Versatile, serve it as a hearty side or a standalone meal for any occasion. Savory goodness shines through with each crispy bacon bite, offering a delightful twist on traditional fare. Unique and satisfying, it’s a recipe that keeps the whole family coming back for seconds! For more easy meal ideas, check out my post on delicious weeknight dinners.

Fried Cabbage Ingredients

• Get ready to create something delicious!

For the Base

Small yellow onion – Adds a sweet and savory depth to your fried cabbage.
Medium head green cabbage – The star ingredient, providing a crispy texture that’s simply irresistible.

For the Flavor

Slices of bacon – Infuses the dish with a smoky richness you won’t want to miss.
Garlic powder – Enhances the overall flavor with its warm, earthy notes.
Smoked paprika – Adds a subtle smokiness that pairs beautifully with the cabbage and bacon.
Kosher salt – Balances the flavors and elevates every bite.
Freshly ground black pepper – A touch of heat to round out the dish beautifully.

Your Fried Cabbage with Bacon will be an unforgettable addition to your home-cooked meals!

How to Make Fried Cabbage

Chop the yellow onion and green cabbage into bite-sized pieces. This allows for even cooking and ensures every dishful has a bit of everything—just the way we like it!
Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Once golden, remove the bacon, leaving the luscious fat in the skillet for flavor.
Sauté the onion in the reserved bacon grease until translucent, around 3-4 minutes. The smell will transport you back to grandma’s kitchen!
Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet and cook until it becomes tender, roughly 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally for perfectly caramelized edges.
Season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper, mixing well to ensure all the flavors meld beautifully.
Stir in the crumbled bacon before serving, letting the smoky goodness permeate the entire dish for that unforgettable flavor experience.

Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Fried Cabbage

Perfect Bacon: Cook bacon slowly on medium heat to achieve maximum crispiness without burning. Reserve the grease for a flavor boost in your fried cabbage.
Chop Consistently: Cut the cabbage and onion into similar-sized pieces for even cooking. Uneven sizes can lead to some pieces being undercooked.
Adjust Texture: If you prefer a crunchier texture, sauté the cabbage for a shorter time. Cook just until tender, allowing it to maintain some bite.
Spice it Up: Don’t hesitate to tweak the seasoning! A pinch of red pepper flakes can add an enticing kick to your fried cabbage and bacon dish.
Vegan Option: For a meatless variation, substitute the bacon with smoked tempeh or liquid smoke to maintain that rich, smoky flavor without the pork.
Meal Prep Friendly: This fried cabbage dish holds up well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep. Just reheat gently on the stove to retain its flavors.

What to Serve with Fried Cabbage?

A dish like this offers the warmth of home cooking, inviting you to create a complete meal that satisfies every craving.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for sopping up the delicious bacon-infused juices, crusty bread enhances the experience. It adds a delightful crunch that complements the softness of the cabbage.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes provide a comfort factor that pairs beautifully with the savory elements of fried cabbage. The smooth texture balances the dish perfectly.
Grilled Sausages: These smoky, juicy sausages provide a wonderful contrast to the lightness of the cabbage. They make this a hearty meal, perfect for family gatherings.
Roasted Carrots: Sweet, caramelized roasted carrots add a pop of color and earthy flavor, enhancing the overall dish with their natural sweetness. A wonderfully vibrant side!
Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds a crisp, tangy bite, perfectly contrasting the rich savory notes of the fried cabbage. It’s a delightful balance and adds texture.
Apple Cider: This crisp drink, with its hint of sweetness, offers a refreshing lightness that cuts through the richness. A glass of apple cider elevates the entire meal experience.
Chocolate Cake: For dessert, a slice of rich chocolate cake brings a sweet finale to your comforting meal. It provides a luscious contrast to the savory elements.
Pickled Green Beans: These tangy bites offer a crunchy, acidic balance that brightens the meal, ensuring each mouthful is an exciting flavor journey.

Every pairing complements and elevates the Fried Cabbage, inviting your diners to indulge in a truly satisfying experience.

Fried Cabbage Variations

Feel free to play around with these ideas to create your own unique twist on fried cabbage!

Veggie Delight: Add diced bell peppers and carrots for a colorful crunch that enhances the dish’s nutritional profile. The vibrant vegetables will brighten your plate and palate!
Spicy Kick: Toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a fiery twist. The added heat will wake up your taste buds and make every bite exciting.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or dill at the end for a burst of freshness. Their aromatic qualities elevate the dish while adding a lovely garden-like flavor.
Smoky Vegan: Swap bacon for smoked tempeh or a splash of liquid smoke to keep that rich taste without the meat. It’s a delightful and healthful way to enjoy all the smoky goodness!
Creamy Dream: For an indulgent variation, drizzle with a bit of cream or a spoonful of sour cream right before serving. The creaminess contrasts beautifully with the crispy cabbage and bacon.
Nutty Flavor: Add a handful of toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that adds another layer of texture. They provide a satisfying bite that complements the softness of the cabbage.
Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle in some parmesan or cheddar just before serving for an irresistible cheesy finish. The melted cheese adds richness that makes this dish even more comforting.
Tropical Twist: Blend in some diced pineapple for a sweet and tangy flavor profile. This unexpected addition brightens the dish, making it a fun, summertime treat!

How to Store and Freeze Fried Cabbage

Room Temperature: Fried cabbage is best enjoyed fresh. If left out, consume within 2 hours to avoid spoilage.
Fridge: Store cooled fried cabbage in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to restore its delightful flavors.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze fried cabbage in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat leftover fried cabbage in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. Enjoy the smoky goodness!

Make Ahead Options

These Fried Cabbage with Bacon are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can chop the yellow onion and green cabbage up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, the bacon can be cooked, crumbled, and refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the onions in the reserved bacon grease, add the cabbage, and cook until tender. Just before serving, mix in the crumbled bacon for that delicious smoky flavor. This way, you can enjoy homemade comfort food with minimal effort on busy nights!

Cabbage and Bacon Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best cabbage for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting cabbage, look for heads that are firm and compact, without dark spots all over. The leaves should be crisp and vibrant in color. A medium head of green cabbage is ideal, as it balances sweetness with crunch, perfect for frying.

How long can I store leftover fried cabbage in the refrigerator?
Very! You can store cooked fried cabbage in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it up. Reheat gently on the stovetop to bring back its wonderful flavors without losing that delightful texture.

Can I freeze fried cabbage, and if so, how?
Absolutely! For the best results, let your fried cabbage cool completely before freezing. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.

What if I find my cabbage is too crunchy after cooking?
If you find that your fried cabbage is too crunchy for your taste, don’t worry! Simply sauté it for a few more minutes in the skillet until it reaches your desired tenderness. Adding a splash of broth or water can help soften it faster while enhancing flavor.

Can I modify this dish for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If you need to accommodate dietary restrictions, you can make this fried cabbage dish vegan by swapping the bacon for smoked tempeh or using liquid smoke for flavor. Additionally, keep an eye on any allergies with spices like paprika or garlic powder, which can be substituted with herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different twist.

Is this recipe safe for pets?
I often recommend avoiding giving fried cabbage to pets due to the ingredients like bacon and spices which can upset their stomachs. Stick to fresh, plain vegetables if you’re looking to share some of the healthy goodness of cabbage with your furry friends!