- With Cornbread: Pair this fried cabbage with warm, buttery cornbread for a true Southern meal.
- As a Side: Serve alongside fried chicken, pork chops, or barbecue ribs.
- Over Rice: Spoon the cabbage over steamed white or brown rice for a simple, hearty meal.
- With Sausage: Add smoked sausage or kielbasa for a protein-packed version.
- Cut Evenly: Chop the cabbage into even pieces to ensure it cooks evenly.
- Don’t Overcook: You want tender cabbage with a slight crunch and caramelization—don’t let it turn mushy.
- Balance the Flavors: The sugar is optional but helps balance the smoky, savory flavors.
- Bacon Grease = Flavor: Don’t skip the bacon grease! It’s the heart of this dish’s incredible flavor.
- Add More Veggies: Toss in bell peppers or carrots for added color and texture.
- 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped (about 6-8 cups)
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
(adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, for balance)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 2 tablespoons butter
(optional, for richness)
- Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels. Leave the bacon grease in the skillet.
- Add the diced onion to the bacon grease and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until soft and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet and toss it with the onion and garlic.
- Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, sugar, and red pepper flakes.
- Cook the cabbage, stirring occasionally, for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender with a slight char on the edges.
- Stir the crispy bacon back into the skillet with the cabbage.
- If desired, add 2 tablespoons of butter to enhance the flavor and richness.
- Taste and adjust the seasonings, adding more salt or pepper if needed.
- Remove the skillet from heat and serve the fried cabbage hot.
- Garnish with extra bacon or a sprinkle of black pepper for a finishing touch.
- With Cornbread: Pair this fried cabbage with warm, buttery cornbread for a true Southern meal.
- As a Side: Serve alongside fried chicken, pork chops, or barbecue ribs.
- Over Rice: Spoon the cabbage over steamed white or brown rice for a simple, hearty meal.
- With Sausage: Add smoked sausage or kielbasa for a protein-packed version.
ADVERTISEMENT
Southern Fried Cabbage is a classic, comforting dish full of savory flavors and soul food goodness. Cooked low and slow with smoky bacon, onions, and simple seasonings, this dish transforms humble cabbage into a flavorful masterpiece! It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for a quick side dish or even a main course with cornbread on the side.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe 
Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes!
Budget-Friendly – Simple, inexpensive ingredients.
Full of Flavor – Smoky bacon and tender cabbage? Yes, please!
Perfect for Any Meal – Serve it as a side dish, or enjoy it as a main with crusty bread.
Serving Suggestions 
Tips for Perfect Fried Cabbage 
Ingredients 
Read more on next page
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Instructions 
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic 
Step 3: Fry the Cabbage 
Step 4: Finish It Off 
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy 
Serving Suggestions 
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT