Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic is a delicious and hearty side dish that combines the savory flavors of crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and garlic with tender cabbage.
This dish is easy to make, packed with flavor, and pairs well with a variety of main courses like roasted meats, sausages, or even cornbread.
Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic
Ingredients
- 1 head of green cabbage chopped
- 6 slices bacon chopped
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Cook the bacon: In a large skillet or pan over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy (about 5–7 minutes). Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pan.
- Sauté the onion and garlic: Add the butter to the bacon grease. Stir in the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent (about 3–4 minutes). Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Cook the cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the pan. Stir well to coat it in the bacon grease and butter. Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is softened and slightly caramelized.
- Season and combine: Season with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Stir in the cooked bacon and cook for another 2–3 minutes to heat through.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve hot as a side dish or a main meal.
Why You Will Love Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic
Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together rich, savory, and slightly sweet flavors in every bite. The crispy, salty bacon perfectly complements the mild, tender cabbage, while the caramelized onions and fragrant garlic add depth and warmth to the dish. Cooking the cabbage in bacon drippings infuses it with a smoky richness, making each bite irresistibly flavorful.
This dish is not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare. With just a few basic ingredients and one pan, you can have a comforting side dish ready in under 30 minutes. The combination of crispy bacon and tender cabbage creates a satisfying texture contrast that makes this dish stand out.
It’s also incredibly versatile—serve it as a side with roasted chicken, pork chops, or grilled sausage, or enjoy it as a low-carb main dish. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy comfort food or a quick and tasty side, Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic is sure to become a go-to favorite!
Here are some expert tips and serving tricks to help you make the best fried cabbage every time:
Tips for Making the Best Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic
1. Choose the Right Cabbage
- Green cabbage is the most common choice for this dish because it becomes tender and slightly sweet when cooked.
- Savoy cabbage adds a mild, buttery flavor and holds its texture well.
- Red cabbage can be used for a vibrant color, but it may take slightly longer to cook.
2. Prepare the Cabbage Properly
- Remove the tough outer leaves of the cabbage.
- Slice the cabbage into thin strips for even cooking.
- Rinse the cabbage thoroughly and pat it dry to prevent excess water from steaming the cabbage instead of frying it.
3. Cook the Bacon First for Maximum Flavor
- Fry the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. This allows the bacon to release its fat, which acts as the base for frying the cabbage and onions.
- Remove the bacon and drain it on paper towels, but leave the bacon grease in the pan for cooking the other ingredients.
4. Sauté the Onions and Garlic Correctly
- Cook the sliced onions in the bacon grease until caramelized and golden brown.
- Add minced garlic toward the end of cooking the onions to avoid burning the garlic, which can turn bitter.
5. Don’t Overcook the Cabbage
- Add the cabbage to the pan and toss it in the bacon grease and onion mixture.
- Cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- The cabbage should be tender but still have a slight bite – overcooking will make it mushy.
6. Seasoning is Key
- Add salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- A splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice at the end brightens up the flavors and cuts through the richness of the bacon and grease.
Serving Tricks for Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic
1. Serve as a Side Dish
- Pair fried cabbage with grilled sausages, pork chops, or roast chicken for a classic comfort food combination.
- It also works well with cornbread or mashed potatoes for a filling meal.
2. Turn It into a Main Course
- Add sliced kielbasa or smoked sausage directly into the cabbage while it’s frying for a one-pan meal.
- Stir in leftover cooked potatoes or pasta for a heartier dish.
3. Use It as a Filling
- Use fried cabbage as a filling for pierogies, egg rolls, or dumplings for a creative twist.
- Add it to sandwiches or wraps for a savory crunch.
4. Garnish for Extra Flavor
- Top with crispy bacon bits and a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving for added color and flavor.
- A dash of parmesan cheese or a drizzle of hot sauce can elevate the dish’s flavor profile.
Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s easy to make and versatile enough to pair with a variety of meals. Follow these tips and tricks to create a perfect balance of crispy, savory, and sweet flavors every time!
