There’s something irresistibly comforting about a simple skillet meal that fills the kitchen with aroma and nostalgia. This Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic is a perfect example — smoky, savory, and slightly sweet from the caramelized onions, it’s the kind of dish that pairs beautifully with breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Easy to make and packed with flavor, it’s a true soul-warming recipe that even picky eaters can’t resist.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Flavor-packed: Smoky bacon, caramelized onions, and garlic make every bite irresistible.
Quick & easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
Versatile: Works as a side dish, main dish, or even a topping for rice or mashed potatoes.
Comfort food classic: Rustic, hearty, and satisfying — the ultimate homestyle dish.
🧺 Ingredients
1 head cabbage, chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
2 teaspoons minced garlic
5 slices bacon, chopped
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1–2 tablespoons butter or oil (optional, for extra richness)
🔪 Instructions
- Cook the bacon:
In a large skillet or cast-iron pan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pan. - Sauté the onions and garlic:
Add the chopped onion to the bacon grease and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and slightly golden. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. - Add the cabbage:
Stir in the chopped cabbage. Season with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly in the bacon grease and seasonings. - Cook until tender:
Reduce heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized. - Combine and finish:
Stir the cooked bacon back into the cabbage mixture. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Add a bit of butter if you want extra richness. - Serve hot:
Serve immediately as a side dish with eggs, meat, or as a hearty vegetarian option (skip bacon if desired).
🍽 Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside fried or scrambled eggs for a classic breakfast.
Pair with roasted or grilled chicken for a filling dinner.
Serve over mashed potatoes or rice for a comforting, one-pan meal.
Add a fried egg on top for extra protein and flavor.
🍳 Tips for Success
Don’t overcook the cabbage — it should be tender but still slightly crisp.
Use smoked bacon for extra depth of flavor.
A splash of apple cider vinegar at the end brightens up the dish.
For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
💬 Final Thoughts
This Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic is the perfect combination of simplicity and flavor. Smoky, savory, and slightly sweet, it’s comfort food at its finest. Whether served as a side or a main, it’s the kind of dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. 🥬🥓🧄💛
