Name: Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon: 5 Comforting Secrets
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 large head green cabbage, cored and chopped; 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped; 1 medium onion, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (optional); Salt and black pepper to taste; Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional); 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional); 0.5 tsp brown sugar (optional); Drizzle of hot sauce (optional)

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Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon is a delightful dish that will make your taste buds dance. This recipe is a fantastic embodiment of Southern comfort food, combining rich, smoky flavors with simple ingredients. Picture the sizzle of bacon, the sweetness of caramelized onions, and the vibrant crunch of cabbage all coming together in one pan. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also delivers a hearty dose of flavor that is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Southern Fried Cabbage with

You’ll adore this dish for its versatility and ease of preparation. Here are a few reasons why this Southern-style cabbage dish should be on your menu:

Rich, **smoky flavor** from the bacon.
Quick prep and cook time—ready in just 25 minutes.
One-pan meal means easy cleanup.
Perfect as a cabbage side dish for Southern meals.
Great for beginners wanting to try a traditional Southern cabbage recipe.
Adaptable with various vegetables and spices.
Gluten-free and can be made healthy with variations.

Ingredients for Southern Fried Cabbage with

Gather these items:

1 large head green cabbage, cored and chopped
6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
1 medium onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
0.5 tsp brown sugar (optional)
Drizzle of hot sauce (optional)

How to Make Southern Fried Cabbage with Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large skillet, fry bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside on paper towels. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pan.
Step 2: Add sliced onions to the hot drippings. Cook until softened and golden. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Step 3: Add chopped cabbage. Stir occasionally and cook until wilted and lightly browned on the edges, about 10–12 minutes.
Step 4: Season with salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and optional vinegar and brown sugar. Stir to coat evenly.
Step 5: Return bacon to the skillet and toss everything together. Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon or dash of hot sauce.

Pro Tips for the Best Southern Fried Cabbage with

Keep these in mind:

Use thick-cut bacon for extra flavor and texture.
Adjust the seasoning to your taste; add more spices for a punch.
For a healthier option, substitute turkey bacon and add more vegetables.
This dish can be made in one pan, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners.

Best Ways to Serve Southern Fried Cabbage with

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of mains:

Serve alongside grilled meats for a hearty meal.
Try it with cornbread for a true Southern experience.
Top with Southern fried cabbage with onions and peppers for added flavor.

Delicious Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon garnished and ready to serve

How to Store and Reheat Southern Fried Cabbage with

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. This dish is great for meal prep and makes for a delicious lunch option.

Frequently Asked Questions About Southern Fried Cabbage with

What’s the secret to perfect Southern Fried Cabbage with?

The secret lies in the bacon drippings—this adds incredible depth and flavor to the cabbage. Make sure to cook it until it’s nicely browned for that perfect Southern flavor.

Can I make Southern Fried Cabbage with ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent it from drying out.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Southern Fried Cabbage with?

Be careful not to overcook the cabbage. It should be tender but still have a slight crunch. Adjust the cooking time based on your preference.

Variations of Southern Fried Cabbage with You Can Try

Get creative with these variations:

Add sausage for a hearty twist with Southern-style fried cabbage with sausage.
Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for more color and nutrition.
Try a healthier version by using olive oil instead of bacon drippings.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making creamy potato soup for a comforting meal. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, don’t miss our gingerbread cookies.

Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon: 5 Comforting Secrets

Author: basmer
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon recipe delivers rich, smoky flavor with just one skillet and simple ingredients.

Instructions

In a large skillet, fry bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside on paper towels. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pan.
Add sliced onions to the hot drippings. Cook until softened and golden. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Add chopped cabbage. Stir occasionally and cook until wilted and lightly browned on the edges, about 10–12 minutes.
Season with salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and optional vinegar and brown sugar. Stir to coat evenly.
Return bacon to the skillet and toss everything together. Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon or dash of hot sauce.