Fried cabbage with bacon is a one-skillet side that’s ready in less than 25 minutes. When the fridge is almost empty, this skillet still delivers big flavor with just a handful of simple ingredients.
Holly’s Recipe Highlights
- Flavor: Smoky bacon, sweet cabbage, and a splash of vinegar make this cozy skillet taste like it simmered all day.
- Budget Tip: This is one of my favorite budget-friendly sides. Cabbage and onion keep costs low, while a little bacon adds that big, satisfying payoff in flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: I love serving this as a simple side, but I’ll often turn it into a light meal with a fried egg on top, and it’s especially perfect with noodles, pork chops, or meatloaf.
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
- Cabbage: Green cabbage will give this dish its classic flavor. Make sure to cut it into even 1-inch pieces so it turns tender at the same time. For a fast shortcut, use bagged coleslaw mix.
- Bacon: For meatier bites, use thicker-cut bacon.
- Vinegar: Vinegar adds the bright “finish” that keeps the skillet from tasting heavy. It can be swapped with white vinegar or a squeeze of lemon.
- Variations: Add a pinch of caraway seeds for a deli-style vibe or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
How to Make Fried Cabbage with Bacon
- Cook bacon. Remove pieces to drain on a paper towel.
- Sauté the onion. Add cabbage and seasonings, and cook (full recipe below).
- Stir in apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Sprinkle with crumbled bacon before serving.
Holly’s Tricks for Tender Cabbage
- Start with less bacon fat and add more only if needed, especially if your bacon is extra greasy.
- Keep the heat at medium-low for sweeter cabbage and less risk of scorching.
- For more browning, push the cabbage to the side, let the pan surface heat up, then stir and repeat once or twice.
- If it tastes flat at the end, add a tiny extra splash of vinegar before adding more salt.
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4 days.
It will keep in the freezer for 2 months. The cabbage will be softer after freezing. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a warm skillet. Add a splash of water if it seems dry. It can also be made ahead and reheated with crisp bacon added just before serving.
More Cabbage Favorites
Did you enjoy this Fried Cabbage with Bacon Recipe? Leave a comment and rating below.
Fried Cabbage With Bacon
Equipment
Ingredients
- 6 slices bacon chopped
- 1 small onion diced
- 8 cups chopped cabbage 1" pieces
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove bacon, reserve drippings, and set aside.
- Add onion and 1 tablespoon of the reserved drippings and cook until tender, about 3 minutes.
- Add cabbage and garlic powder and cook on medium-low heat for 15-20 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally. Stir in apple cider vinegar and salt and pepper to taste.
- Sprinkle with bacon before serving.
Notes
Nutrition Information
Nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.
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REPIN this Fried Cabbage with Bacon Recipe
I add bit if vinegar very tasty. I can eat this for days
So glad you enjoyed it Christene!
I don’t read in direction when to add garlic.
You add it in with the cabbage. Fixed, thank you Nancy!
Try adding a bit of lemon juice just before serving. Brightens the flavor and cuts the greasiness of the bacon. Just a teaspoon or so. My Polish granny taught me that trick.
Sounds great Heather!
Do you have to add sugar to it?
The sugar is a very small amount. I’ve only tried the recipe as written, but think that you can leave it out if you prefer. Enjoy Terri!
try it with egg noodles too it is awesome
Great idea!
Sounds great.