Easy Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon isn’t just a side dish; it’s a culinary hug, a quintessential Southern comfort food that brings warmth and unforgettable flavor to any table. In less than 20 minutes, you can transform a few simple ingredients into an incredibly delicious cabbage side dish that everyone will rave about. Forget complicated recipes – this one is all about straightforward preparation and maximum taste.
Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon: A Timeless Comfort Food Classic
Growing up in Alabama, my husband often shared cherished Southern family recipes with me. Among them, this fried Southern-style cabbage with bacon quickly became one of our household favorites. It’s a dish steeped in tradition, often making an appearance at family gatherings, potlucks, and as a hearty accompaniment to various main courses. Sometimes, for an even more substantial meal, it’s even served with tender egg noodles, elevating a humble side into a satisfying main course.
While this recipe shines with bacon for its irresistible smoky and savory notes, its versatility allows for substitutions. You can easily replace the bacon with smoked sausage for an extra boost of protein and a slightly different, yet equally delicious, flavor profile. This adaptability makes it a fantastic addition to your recipe repertoire.
Whether you choose to enjoy this savory vegetable dish on its own for a lighter meal, or pair it with a magnificent piece of cornbread and a tall glass of sweet iced tea, it’s guaranteed to impress. It’s the perfect easy side dish that delivers huge on flavor without demanding hours of your precious time in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Southern Fried Cabbage Recipe
There are countless reasons why Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon has remained a beloved dish for generations. Here’s why it’s destined to become a staple in your kitchen:
- Effortlessly Quick & Simple: Forget complicated culinary techniques. This recipe is designed for ease, coming together in less than 20 minutes. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights or when you need a delicious side dish in a hurry.
- Bursting with Authentic Southern Flavor: The magic lies in the rich combination of crispy bacon, sweet caramelized onions, and tender green cabbage, all cooked in the savory golden bacon grease. This creates a depth of flavor that is truly irresistible and distinctly Southern.
- Incredibly Versatile Side Dish: Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon complements an astonishing variety of main courses. From classic pork chops and roasted chicken to grilled fish or even a hearty vegetarian meal, it’s a flexible companion that elevates any plate.
- The Epitome of Comfort Food: There’s something inherently comforting about a warm, savory dish cooked with simple, wholesome ingredients. This recipe provides that soul-satisfying feeling reminiscent of home-cooked meals.
- Highly Customizable: While perfect as is, this recipe is a fantastic canvas for your own culinary creativity. Easily adapt it with optional add-ins to match your preferred spice level, sweetness, or dietary needs, making it truly your own.
This fried Southern cabbage recipe has undeniably become a steadfast family favorite in our home, loved for its amazing taste and incredibly straightforward preparation. It perfectly complements classic main dishes like creamy mashed potatoes, a crisp side salad, or stands alone as a delightful, light meal option. For an authentic Southern feast, consider pairing this delightful cabbage dish with perfectly cooked pork chops – a culinary combination that truly can’t be beaten.
Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Fried Cabbage
Creating this epic Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon requires just a few simple, fresh ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the rich, comforting flavor profile. Below is a quick overview of what you’ll need; for precise measurements and detailed step-by-step instructions, please refer to the printable recipe card conveniently located at the bottom of this post.
- Bacon: For the most authentic and flavorful Southern Fried Cabbage, we highly recommend using thick-cut bacon. The reason is twofold: it renders a generous amount of rich, savory bacon grease, which is absolutely crucial for the dish’s signature taste, and its hearty texture adds a wonderful chewiness that complements the tender cabbage beautifully.
- Butter: You have the flexibility to use either salted or unsalted butter. Our preference is unsalted butter, as it gives us precise control over the overall saltiness of the dish. This way, we can adjust the seasoning to taste perfectly without overdoing it.
- Onion: A medium yellow or white onion, finely chopped, is essential. When sautéed in the rendered bacon grease, it softens, sweetens, and releases aromatic notes that form the foundational layer of flavor for the cabbage.
- Green Cabbage: A fresh, medium-sized head of green cabbage is ideal for this recipe. It’s important to core and slice it thinly and uniformly. This ensures that every piece cooks evenly and can be thoroughly coated in the delectable bacon-butter mixture, guaranteeing maximum flavor in every single bite. Avoid pre-shredded cabbage if possible, as it can often turn mushy quicker.
- Salt and Black Pepper: These humble seasonings are fundamental. They don’t just add saltiness and a touch of spice; they enhance and bring out all the natural, delicious flavors of the other ingredients. Always season to your personal preference, tasting as you go.
Optional Add-Ins to Elevate Your Cabbage Dish
While the core recipe is fantastic, don’t hesitate to customize your Southern Fried Cabbage with these delicious additions to suit your palate:
- Cajun Seasoning: For those who crave a zesty, spicy kick, adding ¼ to ½ teaspoon of your favorite Cajun seasoning can transform the flavor profile with a delightful warmth.
- Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch or two of red pepper flakes offers a gentle, buildable heat that beautifully complements the savory bacon.
- Olive Oil: If you wish to reduce the amount of bacon grease, or simply prefer a lighter fat, olive oil can be used in combination with the bacon grease or as a partial substitute for butter.
- Garlic Powder or Minced Garlic: These add an extra layer of aromatic depth. If using fresh minced garlic, add it during the last minute of cooking the onions to prevent it from burning and becoming bitter.
- Ham Pieces: Leftover cooked ham, diced into small pieces, can be a fantastic addition, providing another layer of smoky, salty flavor and making the dish even heartier.
- Bell Peppers & Carrots: For added nutrients, vibrant color, and a touch of natural sweetness, consider adding thinly sliced bell peppers (any color) or shredded carrots along with the onions.
- Celery: Finely diced celery, cooked alongside the onions, adds a subtle crisp texture and a fresh, clean flavor that some find delightful.
- Onion Powder: If you adore onion flavor but don’t have fresh onions on hand, or simply want an extra boost, a dash of onion powder works wonderfully.
- Sugar: For those who prefer a touch of sweetness in their fried cabbage, balancing the savory elements, a sprinkle of granulated sugar can be added to taste during the final cooking stages.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need for Success
Preparing this incredibly easy Southern Fried Cabbage requires only a few basic kitchen tools that you likely already have. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable:
- Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: This is the most crucial piece of equipment. A large, heavy-bottomed skillet (a 10-inch cast iron skillet is highly recommended for its excellent heat retention and even cooking) or a Dutch oven ensures that you have enough space to cook the bacon and, more importantly, to properly fry the cabbage without overcrowding the pan. An uncrowded pan allows the cabbage to sauté and develop flavor rather than steam.
- Wooden Spoons: Ideal for stirring ingredients thoroughly and scraping the flavorful bits from the bottom of your pan without damaging the cooking surface.
- Sharp Knife: A good, sharp knife is essential for safely and efficiently cutting the bacon, chopping the onion, and especially for coring and thinly slicing the head of cabbage.
- Cutting Board: For safe and hygienic preparation of your ingredients.
If you’re a true enthusiast of cabbage, don’t stop here! Explore our other beloved recipes that celebrate this versatile vegetable: our classic Corned Beef and Cabbage (a St. Patrick’s Day staple), comforting Slow Cooker Cabbage Rolls (for a tender, flavorful meal), a light yet hearty Cabbage Roll Soup (all the flavor, less fuss), and the delightful sweet and savory combination of Kielbasa with Red Cabbage and Apples.
How to Properly Core and Slice a Cabbage
Properly preparing your cabbage is a simple but important step for even cooking and a pleasant texture. To core a cabbage, begin by placing the head on a sturdy cutting board. Cut the cabbage into quarters through the stem. Then, from each quarter, carefully use your sharp knife to cut out and remove the thick, hard, triangular-shaped center core. Once the core is removed, you can easily cut the cabbage quarters into uniform, thin slices or shreds, as desired for your recipe. Aim for consistent thickness for even cooking.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon
Preparing this irresistible Southern Fried Cabbage is incredibly straightforward. Here’s a detailed, yet simple, breakdown of each step, ensuring you achieve perfect results every time. For your convenience, full instructions are also readily available in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
1. Cook the Bacon: Begin by placing your bacon slices in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Cook the bacon, flipping as needed, until it reaches your desired level of crispiness. We prefer ours nice and golden brown with a satisfying crunch. Once cooked, carefully remove the crispy bacon pieces from the pan and set them aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Crucially, leave the rendered bacon grease in the skillet – this is the flavorful foundation for your fried cabbage!
2. Sauté the Onions: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the butter to the skillet with the reserved bacon grease and stir gently until the butter is completely melted and beautifully combined with the rich grease. Next, add your chopped onion to this flavorful mixture. Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and translucent, typically taking about 3-5 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to prevent browning or burning, as this can affect the final taste.
3. Reintroduce Bacon: Once the onions are tender and fragrant, crumble or roughly chop the reserved cooked bacon pieces. Add these back into the skillet with the sautéed onions and give everything a good stir. This step ensures that the bacon’s savory essence is well distributed throughout the dish.
4. Cook the Cabbage: Add the thinly sliced, cored cabbage to the skillet. Don’t be alarmed if it looks like a large mound – it will significantly wilt down as it cooks. Increase the heat slightly to medium. Cook the cabbage, stirring frequently to ensure every strand is evenly coated with the rich bacon grease and butter mixture. Continue cooking until the cabbage reaches your desired tenderness. Some prefer a softer, melt-in-your-mouth texture, while others enjoy a slight bite and more crunch. Stirring occasionally not only coats the cabbage but also helps prevent sticking and promotes even cooking.
5. Season to Taste: Once the cabbage is cooked to your liking, it’s time to season it perfectly. Generously season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Take a small taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you’re incorporating any optional spices like Cajun seasoning or a sprinkle of sugar, this is the ideal moment to mix them in, ensuring they are well distributed throughout the flavorful cabbage.
Preparation and Storage Tips for Best Results
To ensure you enjoy your Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon at its absolute best, and to handle any leftovers properly, follow these simple preparation and storage guidelines:
- Serving Fresh is Key: We wholeheartedly recommend serving this vegetable side dish immediately after you make it. The magic of fried cabbage lies in its fresh texture and vibrant flavors. If it sits in the pan for too long after cooking, the cabbage will continue to cook from residual heat, losing its desirable crunch and becoming softer than intended. It’s best enjoyed straight from the skillet to the plate!
- Storage of Leftovers: Should you find yourself with any delicious leftovers (a rare occurrence in our house!), store them promptly in an airtight container. Place the container in the refrigerator, and they will remain fresh and flavorful for up to three days.
- Freezing/How to Freeze: We generally advise against freezing this dish. Unfortunately, cabbage does not freeze well. When frozen and then thawed, its cellular structure breaks down, resulting in a soggy, mushy texture that greatly detracts from the dish’s appeal. It’s truly best enjoyed fresh or from refrigeration.
- How to Reheat Leftovers: Reheating leftover Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon is straightforward. For single servings, your microwave works efficiently – just a minute or two until warmed through. For larger quantities, or if you prefer a slightly crispier texture, gently reheat the leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and to prevent any sticking. A splash of water or chicken broth can be added if the cabbage seems a bit dry during reheating.
Recipe Variations to Explore and Enjoy
While this classic recipe is fantastic in its traditional form, it’s also wonderfully adaptable! Feel free to experiment with these variations to customize your fried cabbage and make it uniquely yours:
- Bacon Substitutions: As previously mentioned, we prefer using thick-cut bacon for its superior flavor contribution and the generous amount of bacon grease it renders. However, you can use regular-cut bacon if that’s what you have on hand, just be aware it might yield slightly less grease. For a lighter option, turkey bacon can be used, though the flavor profile will be distinctly different.
- Butter Alternatives: While butter adds a wonderful richness, you can certainly use olive oil, avocado oil, or another cooking oil if you prefer, especially if you’re aiming for a dairy-free version. The flavor will vary slightly.
- Cabbage Variety: While green cabbage is the traditional choice, you could experiment with savoy cabbage for a slightly different, more delicate texture. Be mindful that cooking times might vary slightly with different cabbage types.
- Vegetarian Option: To transform this Southern Fried Cabbage into a vegetarian-friendly dish, simply replace the bacon with a high-quality meatless bacon substitute. Look for varieties that crisp up nicely to mimic the texture of traditional bacon.
- Vegan Option: For a completely vegan rendition, follow the vegetarian guidance by using a plant-based bacon substitute, and ensure you also swap out the dairy butter for a plant-based butter alternative.
- Gluten-Free: This Southern classic is naturally gluten-free, as none of the core ingredients typically contain gluten. However, for absolute certainty, always make it a habit to check the labels of your bacon and any optional seasonings to ensure they are certified gluten-free, preventing any hidden ingredients or cross-contamination from flavorings or preservatives.
- Adjusting Serving Size: The recipe as written is designed to yield eight generous servings. If you need to prepare a smaller portion for one or two, or if you’re cooking for a larger crowd, many online recipe cards (including potentially the one linked below) offer a convenient slider feature to easily scale the ingredients up or down to your desired serving size.
- Make It Spicy: For those who love a bit of heat and a vibrant kick, incorporate ¼ to ½ teaspoon of your favorite Cajun seasoning, or a generous pinch of red pepper flakes, during the final seasoning stage of the cabbage. Adjust to your desired level of spice.
- Sweet Fried Cabbage: If you prefer a subtly sweet counterpoint to the savory bacon, a classic Southern variation, sprinkle in a teaspoon or two of granulated sugar during the final stages of cooking the cabbage. Taste and adjust for your perfect balance.
- Sugar-Free: The original recipe contains approximately 4 grams of sugar per serving. To make it entirely sugar-free, it’s essential to select bacon that has no added sugars (many brands include sugar in their curing process) and simply omit any optional sugar additions mentioned above.
Expert Tips for the Best Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon
Achieving perfectly flavorful and tender-crisp fried cabbage is surprisingly simple when you follow these expert tips. These small details can make a big difference in the final taste and texture of your dish:
- Prevent Burnt Bacon: This tip is absolutely crucial! Cook the bacon until it’s wonderfully crispy and golden brown, but be extremely careful not to let it burn. Burnt bacon will impart an unpleasant, bitter flavor that will unfortunately transfer to the entire dish, ruining your otherwise delicious fried cabbage. Watch it closely and remove it from the heat as soon as it’s perfectly crisp.
- Balance Sweet and Savory: If you enjoy a touch of sweetness with your savory dishes, which is a common Southern preference, don’t hesitate to sprinkle in a little granulated sugar (about 1-2 teaspoons, or to taste) towards the end of the cooking process. It beautifully balances the richness of the bacon and onion, adding another layer of flavor.
- Choose the Right Skillet Size: Using a large enough skillet or Dutch oven is paramount. This allows all the ingredients, especially the generous amount of cabbage, to fit comfortably in a single layer (or close to it). This space is vital because it allows the cabbage to truly “fry” and caramelize, developing a rich flavor, rather than steaming, which can lead to a watery and less flavorful result. A large pan also makes stirring much easier without ingredients flying all over your kitchen.
- Cook to Your Preferred Texture: The ideal texture for fried cabbage is a matter of personal preference. If you prefer your cabbage very tender, soft, and almost melting in your mouth, simply cook it for a few minutes longer until it reaches that consistency. If you desire a bit more bite and a slight crunch, cook it for a shorter duration, tasting as you go until it reaches your desired al dente texture.
- Fresh Cabbage is Key: We strongly advocate for using a fresh head of cabbage that you core and slice yourself right before making this dish. While pre-cut, bagged cabbage might seem convenient, it often dries out and tends to turn mushy more quickly when cooked, compromising the desired texture of your fried cabbage. Fresh cabbage will give you the best crisp-tender results.
- Embrace the Bacon Grease: Do not drain all the bacon grease! This “liquid gold” is the foundation of the deep, savory flavor in this recipe. While you might want to remove any excess burnt bits, a good amount of rendered bacon grease is essential for sautéing the onions and thoroughly coating the cabbage, infusing it with that unmistakable Southern taste.
What to Serve with Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon
This bacon-infused Southern veggie side dish is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a wide variety of other Southern-inspired meals, as well as classic American comfort foods. Here are some menu planning suggestions to inspire your next gathering, ensuring a perfectly balanced and delicious meal:
Delicious Side Dishes to Complement Your Fried Cabbage
- Broccoli Casserole: A creamy, cheesy, and hearty casserole that offers a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.
- Apple Stuffing: A unique sweet and savory pairing that works surprisingly well, especially for holiday meals.
- Funeral Potatoes: Another comforting, cheesy potato dish that’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- BLT Pasta Salad: A refreshing and hearty cold salad that adds a different dimension to the meal.
- Jiffy Cornbread with Sour Cream: The perfect absorbent companion to soak up all the savory juices from the cabbage.
- Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams: For a touch of vibrant sweetness that balances the savory notes of the fried cabbage.
- Southern Style Green Beans: Another classic Southern vegetable side that fits right into any comforting meal.
Hearty Main Dishes to Pair With Fried Cabbage
- Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken: A flavorful and satisfying chicken entree that pairs beautifully with the rich cabbage.
- Stovetop Meatloaf: A classic comfort food main that makes for a deeply satisfying meal when served alongside fried cabbage.
- Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers: Creamy, crunchy, and absolutely delicious – a perfect match for a hearty vegetable side.
- CrockPot Rosemary Pork: Tender, slow-cooked pork that melts in your mouth and complements the savory cabbage.
- Cracker Barrel Chicken & Dumplings: The ultimate Southern comfort meal, made even better with a side of fried cabbage.
Delightful Southern Desserts to Complete Your Meal
- Ooey-Gooey Butter Cake: A rich, incredibly moist, and sweet treat that’s a true Southern indulgence.
- Lemon Bars: Zesty and refreshing, these provide a perfect palate cleanser after a rich meal.
- Lemon Icebox Pie: A cool, tangy, and light classic that’s perfect for warmer days.
- Best Rice Krispie Treats: Simple, nostalgic, and universally loved for a quick sweet bite.
- Lemon Dump Cake: An incredibly easy and delicious cake that combines fruity flavor with a delightful texture.
- Pig Pickin’ Cake: A vibrant Southern favorite featuring pineapple and mandarin oranges.
- Bisquick Apple Cobbler: A warm, fruity, and easy-to-make dessert perfect for any season.
- Bisquick Peach Cobbler: A quintessential summer dessert, bursting with sweet peach flavor.
Refreshing Drinks to Quench Your Thirst
- Coke Slushie: A fun, icy beverage that’s great for cooling down.
- Red Robin Freckled Lemonade: A sweet and tart treat that’s a refreshing twist on classic lemonade.
- CopyCat McDonald’s Sweet Tea: The perfect, authentic Southern drink to complete your meal.
When to Serve Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon
This versatile and flavorful dish is perfect for a variety of occasions, making it a reliable choice throughout the year:
- Family Weeknight Dinners: Quick to prepare and universally loved, it’s an ideal addition to any busy family meal.
- Weekend Lunches: A delicious and satisfying lighter meal, especially when paired with a simple side of cornbread.
- Potlucks: Always a crowd-pleaser that travels well, making it a popular choice for sharing.
- Cookouts & BBQs: A fantastic and flavorful alternative to traditional potato or pasta salads.
- Family and Friend Gatherings: A comforting and hearty addition to any holiday table or casual get-together.
Explore More Delicious Recipe Collections
If you’ve fallen in love with this Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon recipe, you’ll surely enjoy exploring some of our other popular collections designed to inspire your next culinary adventure:
- 45+ Recipes with Bacon! The Best Bacon Recipes: For all bacon lovers, an extensive collection showcasing this beloved ingredient.
- Celery Recipes (What to Make with Celery): Discover creative ways to incorporate this crisp and refreshing vegetable into your cooking.
- 30+ Delicious and Easy Vegetable Side Dishes for Any Occasion: A treasure trove of simple yet impressive vegetable sides.
- 70+ Easy Potluck Recipes for Your Next Gathering: Never run out of ideas for your next shared meal.
- 30+ Casserole Recipes for Busy Nights: Perfect for comforting, easy-to-prepare meals that feed a crowd.
Do you love discovering new culinary delights, or recreating your favorite restaurant dishes at home? Check out our copycat recipes for those beloved restaurant favorites, explore our indulgent dessert recipes to satisfy your sweet tooth, and simplify your meal prep with our convenient CrockPot Recipes, perfect for set-it-and-forget-it meals.
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Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon
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Ingredients
- 8 slices Bacon cooked, chopped, keep the bacon grease
- 1 Onion medium, chopped
- 2 Tablespoon Butter
- 1 Cabbage medium, cored and sliced thin
- Salt and pepper to taste to taste
Instructions
- Cook bacon to desired texture, remove bacon from the skillet but reserve the bacon grease.
- Add butter to bacon grease over medium low heat. Stir together.
- Add in chopped onion and cook until tender. Add chopped bacon into pan and stir together.
- Add the thinly sliced cabbage and cook until tender. Stir together to evenly coat with bacon butter mixture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste
Kitchen Tools
- 10 inch Cast Iron Skillet
Nutrition
Calories from Fat 108