Simple, affordable, and incredibly satisfying, fried cabbage has been a staple in Southern kitchens for generations. Whether served alongside fried chicken, pork chops, cornbread, or barbecue, this dish delivers down-home flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Old-Fashioned Fried Cabbage
- Made with simple, budget-friendly ingredients
- Ready in about 30 minutes
- Packed with smoky, savory flavor
- Naturally low-carb and keto-friendly
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or Sunday suppers
This recipe proves that the best comfort food often comes from the simplest ingredients.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
- 1 large head green cabbage, chopped
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 medium yellow onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- ½ teaspoon sugar (optional, enhances sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for balance)
Optional Add-Ins:
- Sliced smoked sausage
- Red pepper flakes for heat
- A splash of chicken broth
- Diced bell peppers
How to Make Old-Fashioned Fried Cabbage
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
Start by removing any damaged outer leaves from the cabbage. Cut it into quarters and remove the tough core from each section. Chop into bite-sized pieces — not too small, as the cabbage will shrink significantly while cooking.
Rinse thoroughly under cold water and drain well.
Tip: Slightly larger pieces maintain better texture and prevent mushiness.
In a large skillet — preferably cast iron — cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
Once cooked, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet.
In a large skillet — preferably cast iron — cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy.
Once cooked, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet.
This bacon grease is key. It infuses the cabbage with that signature Southern smoky flavor.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Add the sliced onion directly into the bacon grease. Cook for 4–5 minutes until soft and lightly caramelized.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
This aromatic base builds the foundation of flavor for the entire dish
Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. It may seem like a lot at first, but it will reduce significantly as it cooks.
