If you’re looking for an easy-to-make, flavorful side dish that will complement almost any meal, this Fried Cabbage with Bacon recipe is exactly what you need. It’s the perfect blend of savory, smoky, and slightly sweet, with crispy turkey bacon adding the perfect crunch to tender, pan-fried cabbage. The best part? It’s quick, takes minimal ingredients, and is packed with flavor.

Cabbage might not always get the love it deserves in the kitchen, but when you fry it up with bacon, onions, and garlic, it transforms into a dish that’s irresistible. Whether you’re serving it alongside a hearty main course or enjoying it on its own, this fried cabbage is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

This dish is a great way to get some extra veggies in while still enjoying all the satisfying flavors we love. The smoky bacon pairs perfectly with the cabbage, and the onions and garlic infuse the dish with savory goodness. Plus, it’s ready in just under 30 minutes—making it a quick and easy option when you’re short on time but want something full of flavor.

WHY THIS FRIED CABBAGE WITH BACON RECIPE IS A WINNER:

Here are a few reasons why this recipe is a keeper:

• Quick and easy: It’s a one-pan dish that comes together in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a simple side dish.
• Flavor-packed: With crispy turkey bacon, onions, garlic, and smoked paprika, this cabbage dish is anything but bland.
• Customizable: You can adjust the seasoning to your liking, add extra heat with red pepper flakes, or make it spicier with additional spices.
• Healthy yet indulgent: Cabbage is a great low-calorie vegetable, and when combined with turkey bacon, you get a satisfying dish that’s not too heavy.

Whether you’re looking to use up some cabbage in your fridge or trying to make a healthy side that’s full of flavor, this recipe hits all the right notes. It’s simple, satisfying, and delicious.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

To make this flavorful fried cabbage with bacon, here’s everything you’ll need:

• 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped – This is the base of the dish, providing that tender, slightly sweet flavor when cooked.
• 6 slices turkey bacon, chopped – Adds a crispy, smoky flavor to the cabbage, making the dish feel indulgent without being too greasy.
• 1 medium onion, sliced – Provides sweetness and depth of flavor to balance out the cabbage.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Adds that savory, aromatic punch that takes the flavor to the next level.
• 2 tbsp olive oil – Used to sauté the ingredients and help develop the rich flavors.
• Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together.
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional) – Adds a smoky, slightly sweet flavor that enhances the bacon and cabbage.
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – For a little heat, if you prefer a spicier dish.

STEP 1: HEAT THE OLIVE OIL

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Olive oil will help the cabbage cook evenly and prevent sticking, while also providing a subtle flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory ingredients.

STEP 2: COOK THE TURKEY BACON

Next, add the chopped turkey bacon to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bacon becomes crispy. The bacon will add that delicious smoky flavor to the cabbage, so don’t rush this step! Once crispy, remove the bacon from the pan and set it aside. You’ll add it back in later to mix with the cabbage.

COOKING THE CABBAGE AND COMBINING FLAVORS:

Now that we have the bacon crispy and ready, it’s time to build the flavors of the dish. The onions and garlic will infuse the oil with their savory goodness, and the cabbage will get tender and slightly browned, soaking up all the delicious flavors. Let’s continue cooking and get this dish to perfection!

STEP 3: COOK THE ONIONS

In the same skillet where you cooked the bacon, add the sliced onion. You’ll want to use the residual bacon fat along with the olive oil to cook the onions, which will add a lovely depth of flavor. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions soften and become translucent. This step helps bring out the natural sweetness of the onions, which will balance the smokiness of the bacon and the slight bitterness of the cabbage.

STEP 4: ADD THE GARLIC

Once the onions are softened, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown, as garlic can turn bitter quickly. The garlic will add an aromatic richness to the dish that complements the other ingredients.

STEP 5: ADD THE CABBAGE

Now it’s time for the chopped cabbage. Add it to the skillet, stirring to combine it with the onions and garlic. You’ll want to cook the cabbage for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. During this time, the cabbage will begin to soften, release its moisture, and develop a slightly caramelized, browned color around the edges. This is the key to achieving a rich, savory flavor.

As the cabbage cooks, feel free to adjust the heat slightly if necessary—medium heat is ideal for getting it tender without burning. You want the cabbage to become tender but still retain a little texture, so don’t overcook it.

STEP 6: SEASON TO TASTE

Once the cabbage is tender and slightly browned, it’s time to season! Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste, and add smoked paprika for a smoky depth of flavor (this is optional, but it really enhances the dish). If you want a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes at this point as well. The smoky paprika pairs perfectly with the turkey bacon, and the red pepper flakes give a little kick to balance the sweetness of the cabbage and onions.

STEP 7: ADD THE BACON BACK INTO THE SKILLET

Once the cabbage is cooked and seasoned, return the crispy turkey bacon to the skillet. Stir everything together, making sure the bacon gets evenly distributed throughout the cabbage. This final step adds that wonderful crispy texture and savory flavor back into the dish, making it all come together. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired.

STEP 8: SERVE AND ENJOY

Once the cabbage is cooked and the bacon is fully incorporated, the dish is ready to be served. The fried cabbage with bacon is perfectly balanced—tender cabbage, crispy bacon, savory garlic, and a hint of smoky paprika and heat from the red pepper flakes. It’s an easy, delicious side dish that pairs wonderfully with just about anything from grilled meats to hearty stews or as part of a simple weeknight dinner.

FAQ AND FINAL THOUGHTS ON FRIED CABBAGE WITH BACON:

Now that you’ve successfully made this Fried Cabbage with Bacon, let’s go over some frequently asked questions and tips to ensure the dish turns out perfectly every time. Plus, I’ll share a few final thoughts on why this recipe should be a staple in your cooking routine.

1. Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon?
Absolutely! While turkey bacon provides a lighter alternative, regular bacon will give the dish an even richer, crispier texture and deeper flavor. If you use regular bacon, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure it crisps up properly. Just be sure to drain any excess fat before continuing with the recipe.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, fried cabbage with bacon stores well and can be made ahead of time. After cooking, let the dish cool and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of olive oil or a little butter to bring back its original texture. The flavors tend to deepen after a day or two, making it even more delicious.

3. Can I use other types of cabbage?
While green cabbage is the most commonly used type for this recipe, you can also use red cabbage for a slightly different flavor and color. The cooking method remains the same, and red cabbage will offer a mild, slightly peppery taste.

4. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Yes! This fried cabbage recipe is very versatile. Feel free to add carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini to the skillet when cooking the onions and garlic. Just make sure to chop the vegetables into small pieces so they cook at the same rate as the cabbage.

5. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and use olive oil or butter as the base for sautéing the cabbage. You could also use veggie bacon or smoked tempeh for a plant-based alternative that provides a smoky flavor.

6. How do I make this dish spicier?
To kick up the heat, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add jalapeño slices or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. For an extra layer of spice, you could also add a bit of cayenne pepper or chili powder.

CONCLUSION: A SIMPLE, SAVORY DISH THAT NEVER GOES OUT OF STYLE

This Fried Cabbage with Bacon recipe is everything you want in a side dish: quick, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. With its smoky bacon, tender cabbage, and savory garlic and onions, it’s the perfect accompaniment to any main course. Whether you’re serving it with chicken, pork, or a hearty stew, this dish elevates any meal with its bold flavors and simple preparation.

The best part? It’s a dish that’s easily adaptable to suit your tastes or dietary needs. From adding more heat to switching up the vegetables, you can make this fried cabbage your own. And with the option to make it ahead of time, it’s a great choice for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

So, the next time you’re looking for a quick, comforting side dish, give this fried cabbage with bacon a try. It’s sure to become a new favorite in your meal rotation, and I’m sure it’ll impress anyone at the table. Happy cooking!

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