Transform simple ingredients into bold and savory bliss with this Fried Cabbage with Bacon recipe! Perfectly sautéed green cabbage meets crispy, golden-brown bacon, tender onions, and a hint of garlic for a comforting side dish that packs a punch of flavor in every bite. Seasoned with smoky paprika, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a slight kick, this one-pan recipe is quick to make, ready in just 40 minutes, and irresistibly satisfying. From its caramelized edges to the rich bacon drippings absorbed by the cabbage, this dish is an easy go-to for weeknight dinners or hearty holiday spreads. Serve it warm alongside roasted meats, or enjoy it as a stand-alone low-carb delight. Packed with flavor and uncomplicated goodness, this recipe is destined to become a household favorite!
Remove any outer wilted leaves from the cabbage. Cut the cabbage into quarters, remove the core, and slice it into thin strips. Set aside.
Place the bacon slices in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Cook until crispy, about 7–9 minutes, turning occasionally. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, leaving the bacon grease in the pan.
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the chopped onion to the pan with the bacon grease. Sauté the onion until softened and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Add the butter to the pan and allow it to melt. Stir in the cabbage, salt, black pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss to coat the cabbage evenly with the seasonings and butter.
Cook the cabbage over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 10–12 minutes or until it becomes tender and lightly caramelized. If needed, reduce the heat to prevent the cabbage from burning.
While the cabbage is cooking, crumble the cooked bacon into small pieces.
Once the cabbage reaches the desired texture, stir in the crumbled bacon. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Remove the skillet from heat and serve the fried cabbage with bacon warm as a side dish.
Calories |
742 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 41.4 g | 53% | |
| Saturated Fat | 18.9 g | 94% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 113 mg | 38% | |
| Sodium | 3483 mg | 151% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 72.1 g | 26% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 25.8 g | 92% | |
| Total Sugars | 36.5 g | ||
| Protein | 31.1 g | 62% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.3 mcg | 2% | |
| Calcium | 427 mg | 33% | |
| Iron | 5.8 mg | 32% | |
| Potassium | 2114 mg | 45% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.