Growing up in a kitchen where cabbage was often the humble star of many meals, this fried cabbage recipe always stood out. It was one of those dishes my grandmother could whip up in under 30 minutes, and yet it had the power to bring everyone to the table in record time. Whether served as a hearty side or a main dish with crusty bread or pan-seared sausage, this dish has all the hallmarks of Southern comfort food—simple, satisfying, and flavorful.
Let me show you how to make fried cabbage that’s tender, savory, and just a little bit addictive.
Why You’ll Love This Fried Cabbage Recipe
- 🥬 Budget-Friendly: Cabbage is inexpensive and readily available year-round.
- 🍳 Quick to Make: On the table in under 30 minutes.
- 🧂 Flavor-Packed: Cooked with onions, garlic, and optional bacon or sausage.
- 🌿 Versatile: Great as a side, or bulk it up as a main.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For 4 servings:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage (about 2 lbs), chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 strips of bacon, chopped (optional for extra flavor)
- 2 tbsp butter or oil (use more if not using bacon)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional but recommended)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar or a splash of lemon juice (for brightness)
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Cabbage
Start by removing the tough outer leaves from the cabbage. Slice it in half, remove the core, and then chop it into bite-sized pieces. Give it a rinse and let it drain well.
Step 2: Sauté the Bacon (if using)
In a large skillet or cast iron pan over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s crispy. Remove it with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pan. If you’re skipping bacon, heat up your butter or oil instead.
Step 3: Cook the Aromatics
Add the diced onion to the pan with the bacon drippings (or oil). Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add in the garlic and stir for another 30 seconds.
Step 4: Add the Cabbage
Add the chopped cabbage in batches if needed, allowing it to wilt slightly before adding more. Toss well to coat in the oil and aromatics.
Step 5: Season and Sauté
Sprinkle with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Continue to cook, stirring often, for about 10–15 minutes until the cabbage is tender with slightly crispy edges.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Drizzle in the apple cider vinegar or lemon juice and stir through. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, topped with the crispy bacon if using.
Serving Suggestions
Fried cabbage is one of those versatile dishes that pairs beautifully with a range of mains or stands strong on its own. Here are a few ways to enjoy it:
- Serve with grilled or smoked sausage.
- Pair with mashed potatoes and pork chops.
- Toss in some cooked egg noodles for a quick cabbage stir-fry.
- Top with a poached egg for a simple breakfast-for-dinner option.
Tips and Variations
- No bacon? Try using olive oil and a dash of liquid smoke for a similar flavor.
- Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Add protein: Stir in leftover chicken, sausage, or even a fried egg on top.
- Go low-carb: This dish is naturally low in carbs and keto-friendly!
Easy and Flavorful Fried Cabbage Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This is a quick and flavorful fried cabbage recipe with tender onions, crispy bacon (optional), and simple seasonings. It’s perfect as a side or main dish!
Ingredients
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1 medium head green cabbage (about 2 lbs), chopped
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1 small onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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4 strips of bacon, chopped (optional)
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2 tbsp butter or oil (if not using bacon)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
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½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
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2 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
Instructions
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Prepare the cabbage by chopping into bite-sized pieces.
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If using bacon, fry it in a large skillet until crispy. Remove and set aside.
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In the bacon fat (or butter/oil), sauté diced onion for 3–4 minutes.
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Add garlic, cook for another 30 seconds.
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Stir in chopped cabbage in batches, allowing it to wilt.
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Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes.
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Cook until cabbage is tender and edges are slightly crisp, about 10–15 minutes.
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Finish with vinegar or lemon juice. Stir, taste, and adjust seasoning.
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Serve hot, topped with bacon if desired.
Notes
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For a vegetarian version, skip the bacon and use oil.
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Add sausage or a fried egg to turn it into a main dish.
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Store leftovers in the fridge up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Main Dish
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Fried Cabbage, Cabbage, Fried Cabbage recipe,
Why Fried Cabbage Is a Must-Have in Your Rotation
Cabbage might seem like a humble vegetable, but when pan-fried, it transforms into something rich, caramelized, and downright delicious. Its slightly sweet flavor deepens with heat, and the crispy browned edges are what make this dish stand out.
Not only is fried cabbage packed with nutrients (like Vitamin K, C, and fiber), but it also stores well, making it a great make-ahead meal for busy weeks.
Reader Tips and Twists
Here’s what readers and home cooks like you are doing with this recipe:
- “I add chopped apples and a dash of cinnamon for a sweet-savory mix!”
- “We love it with kielbasa slices and a pinch of caraway seeds.”
- “Leftovers make a killer breakfast with a sunny-side-up egg!”
Storage and Reheating
Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until hot.
Freeze: Not recommended, as cabbage can become mushy after thawing.
