If you are looking for a simple, hearty dish that brings together smoky, savory flavors with the comforting crispness of fresh vegetables, this Fried Cabbage and Bacon Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s a perfect blend of crispy bacon bits melting into tender, buttery cabbage cooked just right, making it an ideal side or even a satisfying main for a cozy meal. Once you try this recipe, it’s easy to see why it’s a beloved classic that brings warmth to any table and never fails to impress with its straightforward deliciousness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Fried Cabbage and Bacon Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients, each contributing its unique touch to the overall flavor, texture, and appeal of the dish. No complicated components here—just good, honest food.
- 1 pound bacon: Provides delicious smokiness and crisp texture, the star that flavors the entire dish.
- 1 pound green cabbage: Adds a fresh, slightly sweet crunch and bulk to make the meal hearty and satisfying.
- ¼ cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth: Keeps the cabbage moist and helps it cook evenly without overpowering flavors.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural tastes, balancing the smoky and savory notes.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a touch of warmth and subtle spice to round out the flavor profile.
How to Make Fried Cabbage and Bacon Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Bacon to Perfection
Start by putting the bacon pieces into a deep pot over medium heat. The key here is to cook the bacon slowly until it reaches that perfect crispiness, which usually takes about 7 to 10 minutes. The rendered bacon fat is crucial—it will infuse the cabbage with its smoky goodness and make the dish irresistible.
Step 2: Add the Cabbage and Broth
Once your bacon is crispy and flavorful, toss in the chopped cabbage along with the chicken or vegetable broth. The broth helps the cabbage cook without drying out, bringing out a tender texture while allowing the flavors to meld harmoniously. Don’t forget to sprinkle the salt and pepper to season everything just right.
Step 3: Let the Flavors Meld
Stir everything together and adjust the heat to low-high to allow the cabbage to soften. This usually takes 6 to 8 minutes, during which the cabbage will cook down and absorb the smoky bacon fat and seasoning. Watch closely so you can achieve your preferred consistency—some like it tender with a slight crunch, while others prefer it wilted more thoroughly.
Step 4: Serve Immediately
The best part of this Fried Cabbage and Bacon Recipe is diving in while it’s warm and fresh. Once the cabbage has reached your desired texture, remove it from the heat and dig in. The combination of textures and flavors is truly delightful every time.
How to Serve Fried Cabbage and Bacon Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions can add a pop of color and a fresh bite to this dish. You can also top it with a dash of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat that livens up the smoky tones beautifully.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with classic Southern staples like mashed potatoes, cornbread, or roasted meats. It can also be a flavorful side to grilled chicken, pork chops, or even alongside a simple fried egg for a comforting breakfast or brunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the fried cabbage and bacon over creamy grits or use it as a hearty filling for stuffed baked potatoes or sweet peppers. You could even toss it with cooked pasta for an easy, rustic skillet meal that’s bursting with flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover fried cabbage and bacon in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. This dish keeps nicely, but it’s best enjoyed within a few days when the flavors are still fresh and vibrant.
Freezing
You can freeze this Fried Cabbage and Bacon Recipe as well. Just let it cool completely, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers, use a skillet over medium heat to warm up the cabbage mixture gently, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems dry. This method helps maintain texture and flavor far better than microwaving, which can make the cabbage soggy.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cabbage for this recipe?
Absolutely! While green cabbage is classic here, you can try savoy or napa cabbage for a slightly different texture and flavor. Just adjust cooking times slightly since different cabbages vary in tenderness.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Fried Cabbage and Bacon Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you choose a gluten-free broth. It’s a safe and delicious option for those avoiding gluten.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
You can swap the bacon for smoky tempeh or mushrooms and use vegetable broth. The flavors will be different but still tasty and satisfying if you’re looking for a plant-based alternative.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe itself is mild but flavorful. If you want to add a bit of kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne when seasoning.
What side dishes complement fried cabbage and bacon?
It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, cornbread, and various grilled or roasted meats. You can also serve it alongside rice or creamy grits for a Southern-inspired meal.
Final Thoughts
This Fried Cabbage and Bacon Recipe is truly one of those comforting dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple to make but packed with layers of flavor that make every bite satisfying. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or introducing it to friends and family, this recipe is bound to become a favorite you’ll reach for time and time again. Give it a try—you might just find your new go-to side dish that steals the show every time!
Print
Fried Cabbage and Bacon Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American Southern
- Diet: Low Sodium
Description
A simple and flavorful recipe for fried cabbage and bacon, combining crispy bacon with tender cabbage sautéed in a savory broth. This dish is a perfect side for any meal and is quick to prepare in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 pound bacon, cut into ½ inch pieces
- 1 pound green cabbage, core removed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- ¼ cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the bacon: In a deep pot over medium heat, cook the bacon pieces until they are crispy and browned, releasing flavorful fat.
- Add cabbage and broth: Add the chopped cabbage to the pot along with the low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, salt, and black pepper.
- Sauté the cabbage: Stir well to combine all ingredients. Continue cooking over medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes or until the cabbage softens to your preferred texture, absorbing the flavors.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately while warm for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute turkey bacon for a leaner option.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste, especially if using salted broth.
- For extra flavor, add minced garlic or onion when cooking the bacon.
- This dish pairs well as a side with pork chops or grilled chicken.
