Go Back
Delicious Easy Fried Cabbage with Bacon and Garlic served as a hearty side dish

Easy Fried Cabbage with Bacon and Garlic

A hearty and easy dinner option featuring tender cabbage, crispy bacon, and aromatic garlic, perfect for cold nights.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 270
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound bacon, cut into small pieces
  • 1 large head cabbage, cored and sliced
  • 4-6 cloves garlic, minced 6 cloves for a stronger garlic flavor.
  • 1 small onion, sliced Optional but recommended.
  • Salt and black pepper To taste.
  • Crushed red pepper flakes Optional, for added heat.
  • a splash apple cider vinegar or lemon juice Optional, for brightness.
Optional Enhancements
  • pinch caraway seeds Adds a deli-style flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika For a smoky flavor.
  • pinch brown sugar Balances the sharpness of cabbage.
  • splash chicken broth For a little moisture if needed.
  • 1 spoon Dijon mustard For a tangy depth of flavor.

Method
 

Cooking
  1. Put the bacon in a big skillet over medium heat and cook until browned and the fat is rendered.
  2. If using, add the onion to the skillet and let it soften for 2 to 3 minutes.
  3. Add the cabbage in handfuls, tossing it to coat it with the bacon fat.
  4. Allow it to cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to get browned bits without steaming.
  5. In the last 2 minutes, add the minced garlic to avoid bitterness.
  6. Taste and season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes or vinegar/lemon juice as desired.

Notes

Great served with roasted potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles. Can be made ahead and reheats well in a skillet.