Southern Fried Cabbage

 Irresistible Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic

Hearty. Flavorful. Comfort food at its finest.

There’s something undeniably comforting about a skillet full of Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic. This Southern classic isn’t just a side dish — it’s a showstopper. Smoky, savory, and kissed with just the right amount of sweetness from caramelized onions, this cabbage recipe transforms humble ingredients into a bold, satisfying favorite. Whether you're looking for a cozy weeknight dish or a crowd-pleasing addition to your Sunday dinner, this recipe delivers big on flavor with minimal effort.

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Ingredients & Their Flavor Roles

6 slices of thick-cut bacon – The foundation of this dish. Bacon adds richness, deep umami flavor, and the rendered fat becomes a cooking base for the cabbage and aromatics.

1 large head of green cabbage, cored and sliced – The star of the show. Cabbage becomes tender, slightly sweet, and takes on the flavors of the bacon drippings beautifully.

1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced – Adds sweetness and depth, balancing the saltiness of the bacon.

2 cloves garlic, minced – Delivers a sharp, aromatic kick that elevates the dish.

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning and enhancing every other ingredient.

Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes – For a subtle heat if desired (omit for a milder version).

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Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Perfect Fried Cabbage

1. Cook the bacon

In a large cast iron skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp, turning as needed. Once cooked, remove the bacon, crumble it, and set aside. Leave about 2–3 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pan — this is your flavor gold.

2. Sauté the onions

Add the sliced onions to the hot bacon grease. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn soft and lightly golden. This step builds the sweet-savory base for the cabbage.

3. Add garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it — garlic becomes bitter if overcooked.

4. Add the cabbage

Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet in batches, allowing it to wilt slightly before adding more. Toss gently to coat in the flavorful bacon-onion mixture.

5. Season and simmer

Season with salt and pepper (and red pepper flakes if using). Reduce heat to medium-low, cover partially, and cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and slightly browned in spots.

6. Finish with bacon

Return the crumbled bacon to the pan and stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

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Why This Recipe Is Loved

This dish is more than just cabbage — it's a symphony of textures and flavors. The smoky crunch of bacon, the silky cabbage, the gentle sweetness of onion, and the punch of garlic create a deeply satisfying bite. It’s budget-friendly, keto-friendly, and loved by picky eaters and veggie lovers alike.

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Pro Tips for Success

Use a heavy-bottomed skillet (like cast iron) to ensure even browning and deeper flavor.

Don't rush the cooking — let the cabbage caramelize slightly for added richness.

Add a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end for a tangy lift, if you enjoy a bit of acidity.

Cook the cabbage to your preference: less time for a slight crunch, more time for ultra-soft texture.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair it with grilled sausages, roast chicken, or pork chops for a complete meal.

Serve over mashed potatoes or with cornbread to soak up every last bite.

Make it a meal by stirring in cooked kielbasa or smoked sausage slices before serving.

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Conclusion: Simple Ingredients, Bold Southern Flavor

Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic is the kind of recipe that turns everyday vegetables into something unforgettable. With just a handful of pantry staples and a skillet, you can create a dish that feels both nostalgic and gourmet. It's easy to make, hard to resist, and guaranteed to win over even the cabbage skeptics. Whether you're serving it as a side or letting it shine as the main event, this is a recipe you'll turn to again and again.

Try it once, and it might just become your new favorite comfort food.