Would Anyone Eat This Fried Cabbage (With Bacon, Onion, and Garlic)?

Short Answer: Absolutely. Long Answer: You’ll wish you made a double batch.

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Would anyone actually eat fried cabbage?”—the answer is a lip-smacking, fork-scraping, bowl-cleaning YES! This Southern comfort classic takes humble cabbage and transforms it into a smoky, savory, melt-in-your-mouth side dish you’ll crave again and again. With crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and a hearty dose of garlic, this dish isn’t just for cabbage lovers—it’s a total game-changer that might just convert the skeptics.

Whether you serve it up with cornbread, pork chops, or a big bowl of beans, fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic is the kind of down-home recipe that feels like a warm hug. It’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and just rustic enough to bring back memories of grandma’s kitchen. So yes—people do still eat fried cabbage. And they absolutely love it.

Why This Fried Cabbage Recipe Works

There’s a reason this recipe has stood the test of time: it’s easy, affordable, and completely delicious. Here’s why it’s a must-make:

Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor – Bacon, onion, garlic, and a handful of seasonings come together to turn cabbage into something spectacular.

Budget-friendly – Cabbage is one of the cheapest vegetables around, making this dish a wallet-wise choice.

One-pot wonder – Everything cooks in the same pan for less mess and more flavor.

Comfort food with a healthy twist – Cabbage is loaded with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. And hey, bacon makes it taste like a treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything that goes into this glorious skillet of goodness:

6 slices bacon, chopped

1 large onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 large head cabbage, cored and sliced

1 tablespoon salt, or to taste

1 teaspoon ground black pepper

½ teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon garlic powder

⅛ teaspoon paprika

These seasonings bring the dish to life. The bacon provides smokiness, the onion adds sweetness, and the garlic ties it all together. A touch of paprika gives just enough depth without overwhelming the cabbage’s natural flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Bacon

In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, cook your chopped bacon over medium-high heat until it turns beautifully golden and crispy—about 10 minutes. Don’t drain the bacon fat; that’s liquid gold for flavor!

2. Add Onion and Garlic

Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Stir them around in the bacon drippings until the onions soften and begin to caramelize—about another 10 minutes. This step adds rich sweetness and savory depth.

3. Stir in the Cabbage

Add the sliced cabbage directly into the pot. It may look like a lot at first, but it will cook down significantly. Stir continuously for another 10 minutes, allowing the cabbage to start wilting and absorbing those incredible flavors.

4. Season to Taste

Sprinkle in your salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix everything well, making sure every bite of cabbage is coated in the seasoned bacon-onion mixture.

5. Simmer to Perfection

Turn the heat down to low, cover the pot, and let the cabbage simmer gently for 30 minutes. Stir occasionally. The cabbage will soften, sweeten, and soak up every ounce of flavor.

Pro Tips for the Best Fried Cabbage

Use a large pot – Cabbage shrinks as it cooks, but you’ll need room to stir everything well at first.

Don’t skimp on the seasoning – Cabbage needs salt to shine. Taste and adjust as needed.

Add a splash of apple cider vinegar – For a tangy twist, stir in 1–2 tablespoons during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Want it spicy? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.

Cook low and slow – This is where the magic happens. The longer it simmers, the more delicious it gets.

Variations to Try

This recipe is incredibly flexible. Feel free to make it your own:

Add sausage – Sauté some sliced smoked sausage with the onions for a heartier version.

Go meatless – Skip the bacon and sauté the onions in butter or olive oil for a vegetarian-friendly option.

Use red cabbage – It adds a pop of color and a slightly different flavor.

Mix in potatoes – Dice and cook a few potatoes in with the cabbage for a complete one-pot meal.

What to Serve with Fried Cabbage

This dish pairs well with a wide variety of mains and sides:

Grilled or baked pork chops

Cornbread or biscuits

Fried chicken

Mashed potatoes

Pinto beans or black-eyed peas

It’s the kind of side dish that works for Sunday dinner, potlucks, cookouts, or even a quick weeknight supper.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Fried cabbage stores and reheats beautifully:

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freeze in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet.

Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking.

It’s just as delicious the next day—maybe even better!

Nutritional Info (Per Serving, Approximate)

Calories: 180

Fat: 12g

Carbs: 12g

Protein: 5g

Fiber: 4g

(Exact values may vary depending on bacon brand and cabbage size.)

Final Thoughts

Still wondering if anyone would eat this fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic? Just ask anyone who’s tried it—and then watch them go back for seconds. This is one of those old-school, soul-satisfying recipes that checks all the boxes: simple, savory, comforting, and full of flavor.

Don’t be surprised if it becomes a weekly staple at your table. Whether you’re cooking for your family or feeding a crowd, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

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