Fried Cabbage with Bacon and Onions Recipe

Close-up of caramelized cabbage tossed with crispy bacon pieces and golden onions in a skillet.

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Cabbage, crispy bacon, caramelized onions, garlic, butter, and a dash of seasoning come together for a simple yet irresistible side dish.

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You know how some dishes just take you back to a specific moment? For me, Fried Cabbage with Bacon and Onions is like stepping into my grandma’s kitchen on a crisp autumn evening. She’d have the skillet going, and the smell of sizzling bacon would drift through the house, pulling everyone into the kitchen like a magnet.

I remember one time in particular—it was a random weeknight, and we’d all just come in from raking leaves. Grandma whipped this dish up in what felt like seconds, and we sat around the table, laughing and eating until we couldn’t anymore. That simple combination of bacon, onions, and cabbage made us feel warm and taken care of.

Now, every time I make this, I’m back in that cozy kitchen, with the sound of her humming in the background and the warmth of the skillet on the stove. It’s amazing how food can do that, right? If you’re ready for your own cozy moment, let’s get cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Fried Cabbage with Bacon and Onions Recipe?

Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this dish:

  • Easy to Make: It’s quick and uses simple ingredients you probably already have.
  • Big, Bold Flavors: Smoky bacon, sweet onions, and buttery cabbage create a flavor explosion.
  • Versatile: Serve it as a side, mix it with rice, or enjoy it as is for a satisfying main.
  • Budget-Friendly: Comfort food that doesn’t cost a fortune? Yes, please.

Close-up of caramelized cabbage tossed with crispy bacon pieces and golden onions in a skillet.

Ingredient Notes:

Let’s break down what makes this recipe so good:

  • Cabbage: Fresh, green cabbage works best here. It softens perfectly but still holds a bit of texture.
  • Bacon: Go for thick-cut if you can—it adds extra crunch and flavor.
  • Onions: Yellow onions caramelize beautifully, adding sweetness to balance the smoky bacon.
  • Garlic: Six cloves might sound like a lot, but trust me, it’s the perfect amount.
  • Butter: This ties everything together with a rich, savory finish.
  • Seasonings: A simple mix of salt and cracked black pepper is all you need to let the main ingredients shine.

A spoonful of fried cabbage and bacon, showcasing the rich golden-brown textures and savory ingredients.

How To Make Fried Cabbage with Bacon and Onions?

Cooking this dish is straightforward and oh-so-satisfying. Here’s how:

  1. Cook the Bacon:
    Start by cooking the diced bacon in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it’s golden and crispy. Once done, set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels. Don’t pour out all that bacon grease, though—leave a bit in the pan for flavor.
  2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
    Add a generous spoonful of butter to the skillet and let it melt. Toss in the diced onions and cook them until they’re soft and caramelized. Then add the garlic and stir for about a minute until fragrant. By now, your kitchen will smell amazing.
  3. Cook the Cabbage:
    Add the diced cabbage to the skillet. Sprinkle it with salt and pepper, and stir to coat it in all that buttery, bacon-y goodness. Let it cook down for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and glossy.
  4. Bring Back the Bacon:
    Toss the crispy bacon back into the skillet. Give everything a good stir, letting the flavors mingle for a couple of minutes.
  5. Serve and Enjoy:
    Transfer the fried cabbage to a serving dish, and get ready for a taste of pure comfort. Serve it alongside your favorite main dish or enjoy it as is—it’s that good.

Pan of sautéed cabbage with crisp bacon and tender onions, garnished with a touch of seasoning.

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Storage Options:

Got leftovers? Here’s how to keep them:

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave for the best results.
  • Freeze: While cabbage doesn’t freeze perfectly, this dish can be frozen for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.

Variations and Substitutions:

This recipe is perfect as-is, but here are a few ideas to make it your own:

  • Add Protein: Mix in cooked sausage or ground beef for a heartier meal.
  • Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
  • Extra Veggies: Toss in carrots, bell peppers, or even mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
  • Butter Swap: Try olive oil or ghee for a different spin on the flavors.

Fried cabbage with smoky bacon and onions served in a rustic cast-iron skillet, ready to enjoy.

What to Serve with Fried Cabbage with Bacon and Onions?

This dish pairs beautifully with just about anything. Here are some ideas:

  • Roast Chicken: The crispy skin and tender meat are a perfect match.
  • Mashed Potatoes : Scoop up that buttery cabbage with a side of creamy potatoes.
  • Grilled Sausages: The smoky flavors of the sausage complement the dish perfectly.
  • Crusty Bread: Use it to soak up every bit of that delicious butter and bacon.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

Absolutely! Just know you might need to add a bit more butter since turkey bacon has less fat.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! It reheats beautifully, so feel free to make it a day in advance and warm it up before serving.

And there you have it—Fried Cabbage with Bacon and Onions that’s as cozy as a warm blanket on a cold day. Whether you’re making it for a casual dinner or adding it to your holiday table, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. So, what do you think? Ready to give it a try? Let me know how it turns out—I’d love to hear from you!

Warm and hearty fried cabbage recipe featuring crispy bacon and sweet onions in a vibrant, savory medley.

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Fried cabbage with smoky bacon and onions served in a rustic cast-iron skillet, ready to enjoy.

Fried Cabbage with Bacon and Onions Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Indulge, in the flavorful experience of our Fried Cabbage with Bacon and Onions Recipe a tribute to the comforting cuisine of Ireland. In half an hour you can turn ingredients into a symphony of tastes and textures. Imagine the crunch of thick-cut bacon blending with caramelized onions all enveloped in a buttery richness while the earthy cabbage undergoes a delightful transformation. The result? A side dish that is hearty, comforting and absolutely irresistible. Whether it's for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion this recipe captures the essence of cuisine on your plate offering a culinary journey that is both satisfying and unforgettable.
6 Servings

Ingredients

  • 4 strips thick-cut bacon diced
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 1 onion diced
  • 6 cloves garlic diced
  • 1 head cabbage diced
  • 2 tsp fresh cracked black pepper
  • 1 tsp Celtic sea salt

Instructions
 

  1. Get that bacon nice and crispy until it turns golden and crunchy. Put it aside for now; we'll come back, to it later.
  2. Drain most of the bacon grease. Leave a bit for some flavor.
  3. In the pan melt some butter until it becomes smooth and frothy.
  4. Throw in those diced onions; they'll become tender and sweet. Then add the garlic and cabbage.
  5. Sprinkle in salt and pepper to bring out its flavors.
  6. Let the cabbage cook down for 8 minutes. It will shrink down. Become glossy.
  7. Reintroduce the bacon.
  8. Now go ahead. Enjoy your Fried Cabbage, with Bacon and Onions, which is ready to be devoured. Bon appétit!

Notes

To make sure that this recipe for Fried Cabbage with Bacon and Onions is fit for a gluten-free diet it's very important to be prudent when choosing your bacon. Some brands of bacon may have additives or flavorings that could potentially include gluten. It's always a rule to read the labels carefully and pick certified gluten-free bacon to assure that the dish is both safe and enjoyable, for those avoiding gluten. Further, it's worth checking the ingredients of the butter as certain flavored butter might contain hints of gluten. By making these ingredient choices you can relish in this delectable dish without any worries related to gluten.
Audrey
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I'm Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my "About Me" page for more info!

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