Fried Cabbage with Bacon

This Fried Cabbage with Bacon is a simple, comforting side dish with crispy bacon, tender cabbage, and savory onions. It’s ready in just 30 minutes and pairs well with almost any main course.

Ingredients (Serves 6)

6 slices bacon, chopped
1 medium green cabbage, cored and chopped (about 8 cups)
1 medium onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Cook the bacon
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the chopped bacon for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crispy.
- Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the skillet.
Cook the onion
- Add the sliced onion to the skillet and cook for 4–5 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Cook the cabbage
- Add the butter and chopped cabbage.
- Sprinkle with the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender with lightly browned edges.
Finish
- Stir in the cooked bacon.
- Add the apple cider vinegar, if using, and cook for 1 minute.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Serve
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Optional Add-Ins

Sliced smoked sausage
Diced ham
Red pepper flakes for heat
Mushrooms
Shredded carrots
Grated Parmesan cheese

Serving Suggestions

Grilled pork chops
Roast chicken
Meatloaf
Cornbread
Mashed potatoes
Fried eggs

Tips

Don’t overcook the cabbage—it should be tender with a slight bite.
Thick-cut bacon adds extra flavor and texture.
For a sweeter flavor, use a sweet onion such as Vidalia.
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6