If you’re looking for a hearty, savory side dish that’s full of flavor, this Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic is the perfect recipe! It’s quick to make, incredibly delicious, and combines the richness of crispy bacon with the sweetness of onions and the aromatic depth of garlic. This dish pairs wonderfully with any main course and can even be enjoyed on its own for a satisfying meal.
Why This Recipe Works
Simple, Flavorful Ingredients: Bacon, cabbage, onions, and garlic come together to create a savory, rich dish that’s comforting and satisfying.
Quick and Easy: This dish takes only a few steps and is ready in about 20 minutes, making it a perfect option for a busy weeknight or a casual gathering.
Versatile: Serve it as a side dish with any main course, or enjoy it on its own for a delicious vegetarian meal (just omit the bacon).
Comforting and Hearty: The combination of bacon and cabbage brings together two classic comfort food ingredients in a flavorful way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
6 slices of bacon: Provides a savory, crispy base flavor.
1 large head of cabbage: Remove the core and slice it into thin strips.
2 minced cloves of garlic: Adds an aromatic depth to the dish.
1 large diced onion: Brings sweetness and texture to balance the cabbage.
1 tbsp of salt: Enhances the flavor of the cabbage.
1 tsp of ground black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth to the dish.
How to Make Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the 6 slices of bacon over medium heat. Cook the bacon until it’s crispy and fully rendered, about 5–7 minutes. Once the bacon is crispy, remove it from the pan and set it aside. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the pan for flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In the same skillet with the bacon grease, add the diced onion. Sauté the onion over medium heat for about 3–4 minutes, or until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Cabbage
Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Toss everything together, making sure the cabbage is well coated in the bacon grease. Cook the cabbage, stirring occasionally, for about 8–10 minutes, or until it wilts down and starts to caramelize. If you like your cabbage a little more tender, cook it for a few extra minutes.
Step 4: Season the Dish
Add 1 tablespoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper to the cabbage. Stir well to distribute the seasonings evenly.
Step 5: Add the Bacon
Crumble the cooked bacon into bite-sized pieces and add it back into the skillet with the cabbage. Stir to combine, and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the cabbage is tender and well-seasoned, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the fried cabbage hot, and enjoy this flavorful, comforting dish!
Tips for Recipe Success
Crisp the Bacon Well: For the best texture, make sure the bacon gets nice and crispy before adding it to the cabbage. This adds both flavor and crunch.
Adjust Seasonings: Taste the dish as you cook, and adjust the salt and pepper to your preference. You can also experiment with other seasonings like paprika or cayenne pepper for a little extra heat.
Add a Splash of Vinegar (Optional): If you like a bit of tanginess, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end to brighten up the flavors.
Use a Large Pan: This recipe makes a lot of cabbage, so use a large enough skillet to give the cabbage enough room to cook down without overcrowding the pan.
Cook the Cabbage to Your Liking: If you prefer your cabbage more crispy, cook it for less time. For a softer, more tender texture, let it cook a bit longer.
Why You’ll Love Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic
Comfort Food at Its Best: This dish is a great comfort food that’s both rich and satisfying, combining savory bacon with tender cabbage.
Healthy and Nutritious: Cabbage is packed with vitamins and fiber, making this a great side dish to accompany other healthy meals.
Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and steps, you can have this tasty dish ready in under 30 minutes.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re making it for a casual weeknight dinner or a holiday meal, this dish is sure to please.
Serving Suggestions
Serve as a Side Dish: Fried cabbage pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, fried chicken, or grilled sausages.
Top with a Fried Egg: For a hearty breakfast or brunch, top the fried cabbage with a fried egg for extra richness and protein.
Pair with Mashed Potatoes: Serve this dish alongside mashed potatoes for a classic comfort food combo.
Add a Dash of Hot Sauce: For an extra kick, drizzle some hot sauce over the cabbage before serving.
Storage Tips
Refrigerate Leftovers: Store any leftover fried cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Reheat: Reheat the cabbage on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out while reheating.
Final Thoughts
This Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic is a quick, easy, and flavorful dish that brings comfort food to life. The crispy bacon adds depth and richness, while the garlic and onions enhance the overall savory profile. Whether you’re serving it as a side or enjoying it as a main dish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the delicious simplicity of this home-cooked dish, and savor every bite!