The aroma of sautéing onions and bacon brings back memories of family gatherings in the South. This Southern fried cabbage is a cozy dish that warms not just the belly but the heart, and people can’t get enough of it! Whether it’s a weeknight side or a main event, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
This recipe combines simple ingredients: fresh cabbage, sweet onion, and crispy bacon. It’s like a nostalgic hug from your grandma, except you can whip it up in under 30 minutes! With accessible pantry staples, this dish is both hearty and wholesome, making it perfect for any occasion.
It was a chilly fall evening in 2015 when I first brought this recipe to my table. I remember my mom and I joking about how we’d never get tired of this comforting classic. The magical tip? Cook it just until tender but still crisp for that perfect bite. Seven years of testing and tweaking, and it remains a family favorite!
Yesica Andrews
Southern Fried Cabbage for an Irresistible Dinner
Enjoy a delicious Southern Fried Cabbage recipe that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. This dish features the perfect combination of bacon fried cabbage creole seasoning and fresh onion and garlic, making it a standout easy southern fried cabbage onion garlic side. Perfect for any meal, this Southern fried cabbage offers a comforting southern style flavor everyone will love.
1 medium sweet green pepper chopped (can use a combination of both red and green)
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 small head cabbage chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (optional)
1 cup chicken broth
paprika
Method
Fry bacon slices until they are crisp, then drain on paper towels and set aside.
Leave 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pan, discarding any excess.
Stir in butter with the bacon drippings and melt over medium heat.
Add chopped onion, green pepper, minced garlic, chopped cabbage, salt, black pepper, optional Cajun seasoning, and chicken broth to the pan.
Cover and simmer on low heat for 15 to 20 minutes until the cabbage softens to your preferred texture.
Take the pan off the heat, crumble the crisp bacon over the cabbage, and sprinkle with paprika before serving.
Notes
You can adjust the softness of the cabbage to your liking; some prefer it tender while others enjoy a slight crunch. For additional flavor, try using a mix of red and green peppers. This recipe serves well as a hearty southern side dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Comforting Flavors: The combination of bacon, sweet onions, and fresh cabbage creates a warm, nostalgic dish that hits the spot.
Quick and Easy: Ready in about 35 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or Sunday dinners.
Healthy and Wholesome: Cabbage is packed with nutrients, and this dish can easily fit into a balanced meal plan while still feeling indulgent.
Versatile Side Dish: Pairs perfectly with a variety of mains, whether it’s fried chicken, grilled meats, or a hearty veggie dish.
Key Ingredients & Tools
Cabbage: A small head of cabbage provides the heartiness for this dish.
Bacon: Adds that irresistible crunch and smoky flavor, always a hit!
Onions and Peppers: Sweetness from these veggies enhances the overall taste of the cabbage.
Chicken Broth: This is essential for keeping the cabbage moist and flavorful during cooking.
Tools You’ll Need: A large skillet or frying pan, a spatula, and a cutting board for prepping ingredients.
How It Works Step-by-Step
Cook the Bacon: Crisp up that bacon in your skillet until it’s golden brown. Remove it and let it drain on a paper towel.
Prepare the Base: Keep about 2 tablespoons of the bacon drippings in the pan, adding butter to create a rich base.
Sauté the Veggies: Toss in chopped onions and peppers, then add the minced garlic for that wonderful aroma.
Add the Cabbage: Stir in your chopped cabbage, salt, pepper, and any Cajun seasoning if you like a bit of a kick.
Cook to Perfection: Pour in the chicken broth and cover the pan, cooking on medium-low heat for 15–20 minutes until the cabbage is tender but still has some crunch.
Finishing Touches: Crumble the reserved bacon on top, sprinkle with paprika, and take in that cozy aroma!
Troubleshooting Tips
Cabbage Too Tough? Cook it a little longer; just remember to check for your preferred level of tenderness.
Not Enough Flavor? A splash more of chicken broth or a pinch of extra seasoning can brighten things up. Don’t be shy to taste as you go!
Make It Creamy: Consider adding a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream at the end for a richer dish.
Tweaks and Swaps
Original Ingredient
Possible Swap
Notes
Bacon
Turkey Bacon
Great for a lighter option while still providing smoky flavor.
Cabbage
Brussels Sprouts
For a trendy twist, try thinly sliced Brussels instead of cabbage.
Cajun Seasoning
Italian Seasoning
For a different flavor profile without too much heat.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving: This Southern fried cabbage shines alongside main dishes like cornbread, fried chicken, or even grilled sausages. It’s not just a side; it can easily hold its own on a plate!
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep for about 3–4 days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Freezing: While it’s best fresh, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to a month. Just thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy!
Expert Says
Southern fried cabbage is a delightful dish that showcases the natural sweetness of cabbage when caramelized. Cooking it at a higher temperature encourages the Maillard reaction, enhancing the flavors and giving it a rich, golden color. This method not only elevates taste but also preserves the vegetable’s nutrients effectively.
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Perfecting Southern Fried Cabbage
This Southern fried cabbage recipe was a labor of love that took me longer than I’d like to admit to perfect. After a few too-salty batches and a minor kitchen fire (don’t ask!), I finally landed on a method that results in tender, flavorful goodness. It’s been a comforting staple at family dinners ever since.
FAQs ( SOUTHERN FRIED CABBAGE )
How to get the best flavor from Southern Fried Cabbage?
For maximum flavor, sauté the cabbage with onions and garlic in bacon drippings. The combination of these ingredients infuses the dish with a rich taste. Adding Creole seasoning can also enhance the flavor profile, giving it a delightful kick.
Can I make this with turkey bacon?
Yes, you can substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon in this recipe. While turkey bacon has less fat, it still provides a smoky flavor. You may need to add a bit of oil or butter to ensure the cabbage cooks well.
What is the best way to cut the cabbage?
Shred the cabbage into thin strips for even cooking. Start by cutting the cabbage in half, then remove the core. From there, slice it into quarter-inch-wide strips. This ensures each piece cooks evenly and absorbs flavor.
How long to cook Southern Fried Cabbage?
Cook this dish for about 15-20 minutes over medium heat. Stir frequently until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized. Adjust the cooking time based on your desired texturelonger for softer cabbage, shorter for a bit of crunch.
Is Southern Fried Cabbage healthy?
This dish can be part of a healthy diet, especially if you control the amount of bacon and use olive oil. Cabbage is low in calories and packed with vitamins. Adding more vegetables or using a leaner protein enhances its health benefits.
Conclusion
You’ll love how this Southern fried cabbage turns outcrisp, savory, and oh-so-comforting, ready in about 30 minutes! Trust me, your family will keep coming back for seconds.
Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or swap in turkey bacon for a lighter twist. Remember, leftovers reheat beautifully on the stovetopjust a splash of broth can bring them back to life, a trick I picked up from my grandma!
I’d love to hear your stories! Did you grow up with a similar dish? Snap a photo and share your memories. Save this recipe to bring a little cozy comfort to your table this week. Happy cooking, friend!
With a passion for wholesome cooking inspired by family traditions, I create healthy, simple recipes focused on sourdough, shrimp, chicken, and balanced meals for everyday wellness.
Every recipe here is tested in my kitchen using U.S. measurements and easy-to-find ingredients, so you can cook confidently.
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