There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of crispy bacon wafting through the kitchen to signal a delicious meal ahead. As I prepared this Southern Fried Cabbage, I couldn’t help but feel a rush of nostalgia—this dish brings back memories of family gatherings and laughter around the dinner table. The combination of buttery-soft cabbage, smoky bacon, and the distinct kick of stone ground mustard creates a symphony of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity; it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect solution for a busy weeknight or a festive occasion like St. Patrick’s Day. Plus, it’s gluten-free, which means it’s a great side for everyone at the table. Whether you’re pairing it with grilled meats or enjoying it solo, this fried cabbage dish is sure to elevate your dinner experience and warm your heart in every bite. Let’s dive into creating this easy, flavorful delight!
Why is Fried Cabbage a must-try dish?
Deliciously Unique: This recipe features a delightful twist, combining crispy bacon and tangy mustard for an unforgettable flavor.
Speedy Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
Crispy Contrast: Savory bacon provides a satisfying crunch, beautifully contrasting with the tender cabbage.
Versatile Pairing: Serve it alongside grilled meats or as a stand-alone comfort side—it’s incredibly adaptable.
Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: A dish that’s sure to remind everyone of home-cooked warmth, it’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Enjoy every bite of this quintessential Southern dish!
Fried Cabbage Ingredients
• A simple breakdown to make the most delightful fried cabbage with bacon.
For the Cabbage
- Cabbage – The star of the dish, providing a satisfying crunch and tender texture as it caramelizes.
- Onion – Adds sweetness and aromatic depth; can be swapped with shallots for a milder flavor.
- Garlic – Infuses the dish with its robust flavor; fresh garlic will elevate the taste to new heights.
For the Flavoring
- Bacon – Delivers savory richness and delightful crunch; use turkey bacon for a lighter version.
- Stone Ground Mustard – Enhances the dish with tangy and earthy notes; try Dijon if you’re out of stone ground.
- Smoked Paprika – Imparts a warm, smoky flavor; regular paprika can be substituted but will lack that unique depth.
- Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Essential for balancing flavors and seasoning; adjust to your taste.
Enjoy crafting this delightful fried cabbage dish, and let the wonderful aromas fill your kitchen!
How to Make Fried Cabbage with Bacon
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Cook the Bacon: In a large pan over medium heat, add sliced bacon and cook until crispy—around 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the delicious grease in the pan.
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Sauté the Onion: With the pan still warm, retain about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease. Add diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until they become translucent and aromatic.
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Add Flavorful Ingredients: Stir in minced garlic, stone ground mustard, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well, allowing the ingredients to marry for a minute or so.
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Include the Cabbage: Toss in sliced cabbage, stirring to ensure it’s well-coated in the flavorful mixture. Sauté for 12-15 minutes until the cabbage is beautifully caramelized and buttery soft.
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Combine with Bacon: Finally, return the crispy bacon to the pan, mixing thoroughly to allow the flavors to blend before serving it warm.
Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions for added freshness and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Fried Cabbage with Bacon?
Pairing your delectable fried cabbage with the perfect accompaniments can transform a simple meal into a delightful feast.
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Grilled Sausages: Juicy sausages add a smoky flavor that complements the cabbage’s savory notes. Try pairing with bratwurst for a classic touch.
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Roasted Chicken: Tender roasted chicken provides a comforting, homey feel. The crispy skin balances beautifully with the soft cabbage, creating an inviting plate.
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Cornbread: Sweet, buttery cornbread pairs perfectly with the savory, earthy tones of the dish. Its crumbly texture adds a delightful contrast to the meal.
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Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch, enhancing the meal’s overall texture while providing a burst of freshness. It’s a classic Southern side!
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Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes bring a rich, velvety element to the table. They soak up the flavors, making every bite a comforting experience.
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Iced Tea: A tall glass of sweet iced tea is the perfect drink to quench your thirst. Its sweetness balances the savory profile of the fried cabbage beautifully.
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Apple Crisp: End your meal on a sweet note with a warm apple crisp. Its cinnamon notes and crunchy topping create a delightful contrast to your savory fare.
These pairings will ensure a meal that’s not only satisfying but also full of layered flavors and textures, leaving everyone at the table smiling!
How to Store and Freeze Fried Cabbage
Fridge: Store leftover fried cabbage in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to maintain its softness and delicious flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze well-packaged fried cabbage for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring there’s minimal air to prevent freezer burn.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen fried cabbage overnight in the fridge before reheating. A quick sauté will restore its original texture and flavor, making it taste freshly made.
Reheating Tip: To refresh leftover fried cabbage, add a splash of broth or water while reheating to revive its moisture without losing that tasty smoky essence.
Make Ahead Options
These Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon are fantastic for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy weeknights. You can chop the cabbage, onion, and garlic up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can cook the bacon and store it separately; just make sure it’s crispy to keep that essential crunch. When you’re ready to enjoy this flavorful side, simply sauté the prepped vegetables with the bacon grease, add the mustard and smoked paprika, and finish cooking until the cabbage is tender. This way, you’ll have a comforting side that’s just as delicious as if you made it from scratch!
Expert Tips for Fried Cabbage
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Crispy Bacon: Ensure the bacon is cooked until crispy to achieve the best texture contrast with the tender cabbage.
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Slow Caramelization: Don’t rush the cabbage cooking process; aim for golden-brown caramelization to enhance its natural sweetness.
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Seasoning Matters: Taste as you go, especially if using unsalted bacon, to ensure balanced flavors in your fried cabbage.
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Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic for a robust flavor that elevates the dish; avoid pre-minced options which can lack potency.
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Adaptable Dish: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the mix, like bell peppers or carrots, for extra color and nutrition.
Fried Cabbage Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to put your own spin on this delectable dish with these exciting twists!
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Dairy-Free: Replace bacon with olive oil and smoked tempeh for a plant-based alternative that still delivers on flavor.
The smoky notes will pair wonderfully with the cabbage, ensuring nobody misses the meat. -
Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for an added level of heat—just a pinch can transform the dish.
The warmth from the spices brings the flavors to life, perfect for those who crave a little thrill with their comfort food. -
Sweet and Tangy: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice toward the end of cooking for a tangy lift.
This brightens the dish and balances the richness of the bacon beautifully, creating a delightful taste sensation. -
Colorful Veggies: Toss in sliced bell peppers or carrots during the sauté for a vibrant and nutritious addition.
These veggies not only enhance the dish’s aesthetics but also introduce a slight sweetness that complements the cabbage and bacon. -
Smoky Flavor Boost: Try using chipotle powder instead of smoked paprika for a deeper, smokier flavor profile.
This swap adds a unique twist that will elevate your fried cabbage dish to new heights! -
Herbaceous Touch: Finish with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and aroma.
These herbs also add brightness, making each bite refreshing and invigorating. -
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle with toasted nuts such as almonds or pine nuts just before serving for a crunchy texture.
This adds a beautiful bite that contrasts nicely with the softness of the cabbage, creating an interesting mouthfeel. -
Sweetness: Incorporate a small amount of brown sugar or maple syrup to caramelize the cabbage further.
This sweetness balances the savory components, creating a fabulous flavor harmony that will have everyone asking for more!
Fried Cabbage with Bacon Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best cabbage for frying?
Absolutely! When choosing cabbage, look for heads that are firm and heavy for their size, with no dark spots or blemishes. Green cabbage is traditional, but you can also use savoy cabbage for a lighter texture. Ensure the leaves are vibrant and crisp, as these are indicators of freshness.
How should I store leftover fried cabbage?
Very important! Place leftover fried cabbage in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it has cooled completely before covering to prevent condensation. When you reheat, do it gently over low heat to maintain its texture and flavor.
Can I freeze fried cabbage, and if so, how?
You can indeed freeze fried cabbage for later enjoyment! Start by allowing it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It will keep fresh for about 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a pan with a splash of broth or water to revive its gorgeous flavor and moisture.
What can I do if my fried cabbage is too soggy?
If your fried cabbage turns out soggy, don’t fret! A quick fix is to sauté it on medium-high heat for a few minutes to evaporate excess moisture. Adding a splash of vinegar can also help brighten the flavors and counteract the mushy texture. For future batches, ensure you sauté it long enough to caramelize and cook off that excess water before serving.
Is this recipe safe for my gluten-sensitive friends?
Absolutely! This Fried Cabbage with Bacon recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe option for those avoiding gluten. Just ensure your mustard is also gluten-free; many brands offer suitable options. If you have any friends with specific allergies, always double-check the ingredient labels to guarantee a safe, tasty meal for everyone!
Fried Cabbage with Bacon: A Southern Comfort in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pan over medium heat, add sliced bacon and cook until crispy—around 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the grease in the pan.
- With the pan still warm, retain about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease. Add diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent and aromatic.
- Stir in minced garlic, stone ground mustard, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and pepper. Mix well, allowing to marry for a minute.
- Toss in sliced cabbage, ensuring it’s well-coated in the mixture. Sauté for 12-15 minutes until caramelized and buttery soft.
- Return the crispy bacon to the pan, mixing thoroughly to blend flavors before serving warm.