Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion & Garlic (Southern Comfort Classic)
If you’re looking for a simple, comforting, and flavor-packed side dish, this fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic is exactly what you need. It’s one of those humble recipes that doesn’t look fancy—but the first bite tells you everything. Smoky bacon, tender cabbage, sweet onions, and fragrant garlic come together in one skillet to create a dish that tastes like it’s been passed down for generations.
This recipe is incredibly popular in Southern kitchens, especially during busy weeknights, holidays, or when you want something hearty without spending hours cooking. It’s budget-friendly, made with everyday ingredients, and pairs beautifully with almost any main dish.
❤️ Why Everyone Loves This Fried Cabbage Recipe
There’s a reason this dish keeps showing up on dinner tables year after year:
Only a few basic ingredients
Big flavor with minimal effort
Ready in under 30 minutes
Perfect as a side or a main dish
Naturally low-carb and keto-friendly
Even people who swear they “don’t like cabbage” usually go back for seconds.
🥬 Ingredients You’ll Need
1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped
6–8 slices bacon, chopped
1 large onion, sliced
3–4 cloves garlic, minced
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Optional: splash of apple cider vinegar or chicken broth
🍳 How to Make Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion & Garlic
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the rendered bacon grease in the pan.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion
Add the sliced onion to the bacon grease. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and slightly caramelized.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
Step 4: Add the Cabbage
Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. It will look like a lot at first, but it cooks down quickly. Toss well to coat the cabbage in the bacon fat.
Step 5: Season & Cook
Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but not mushy.
Step 6: Finish with Bacon
Return the cooked bacon to the pan and stir everything together. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Optional: Add a small splash of apple cider vinegar or chicken broth at the end to brighten the flavors.
🌟 Tips for the Best Fried Cabbage
Use a cast-iron skillet for the best flavor
Don’t overcook—cabbage should be tender with a slight bite
Add smoked sausage or ham to turn it into a full meal
A pinch of sugar can balance bitterness if your cabbage is strong
🍽️ What to Serve with Fried Cabbage
This dish pairs perfectly with:
Fried or baked chicken
Pork chops
Meatloaf
Cornbread
Mashed potatoes
It’s also delicious eaten straight from the skillet—no judgment here.
🥓 Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best texture
Avoid microwaving too long to prevent soggy cabbage
⭐ Final Thoughts
This fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic proves that simple ingredients can create unforgettable flavor. It’s cozy, comforting, and incredibly satisfying—exactly the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again.
👉 Don’t lose this recipe—save it, share it, and enjoy every smoky, savory bite! 😋🥬🥓
If you want, I can also:
