When it comes to soul food staples, Fried Cabbage is a classic you can’t go wrong with. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight meal or feeding a crowd for Sunday dinner, this dish is always a winner. It’s simple, savory, and packed with down-home flavors that’ll have everyone asking for seconds (and maybe thirds). In this post, I’m going to walk you through everything you need to know about making the best Fried Cabbage—from the ingredients and steps to expert tips, variations, and even what to pair it with. Let’s get into it!
There’s something magical about the way cabbage transforms when it’s fried with a little love and care. It goes from being just another veggie to a flavor-packed side dish that’s buttery, tender, and smoky. The combination of caramelized cabbage, smoky bacon (or your protein of choice), and a few simple seasonings creates a dish that’s as comforting as it is versatile.
Not only is Fried Cabbage affordable, but it’s also incredibly easy to customize. You can keep it classic, spice it up, or even make it vegetarian-friendly. Plus, it pairs beautifully with just about any main course—from roasted chicken to hearty stews. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’s going to be a regular in your kitchen.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this Southern Fried Cabbage recipe:
- 1 medium green cabbage, cored and chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 4-6 slices of thick-cut bacon, chopped (or smoked sausage for a different twist)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2-3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for a tangy kick)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Fried Cabbage
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by washing and chopping your cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Dice your onion, mince the garlic, and chop the bacon. Make sure everything is ready to go before you start cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet or cast-iron pan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. Remove the bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and set them aside, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the pan.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Add the diced onion to the skillet with the bacon fat. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Step 4: Add the Cabbage
Toss the chopped cabbage into the skillet. Stir it around to coat it in the bacon fat, onions, and garlic.
Step 5: Season It Up
Sprinkle the smoked paprika, garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper over the cabbage. Stir everything together, ensuring the seasonings are evenly distributed.
Step 6: Cook Until Tender
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let the cabbage cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the cabbage starts to stick, you can add a tablespoon or two of water or chicken broth to deglaze the pan.
Step 7: Add the Finishing Touches
Stir in the apple cider vinegar (if using) and the cooked bacon. Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top, and serve your Fried Cabbage warm.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Use a Large Skillet: Cabbage reduces as it cooks, but it starts off bulky. A large skillet ensures you have enough space to stir without making a mess.
- Don’t Skip the Bacon Fat: The rendered bacon fat adds an unmatched smoky flavor. If you’re skipping bacon, use butter or olive oil for richness.
- Season Gradually: Taste as you go to ensure your cabbage is seasoned just right. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out.
- Cook to Your Preferred Texture: Some folks like their cabbage tender with a little crunch, while others prefer it soft and caramelized. Adjust the cooking time to suit your preference.
- Add a Sweet Element: A teaspoon of brown sugar can balance out the savory flavors beautifully.
Variations
- Spicy Fried Cabbage: Add extra red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce.
- Vegetarian Version: Use butter or olive oil instead of bacon fat and omit the bacon.
- Add Protein: Stir in smoked sausage, ham, or even shrimp for a heartier dish.
- Sweet and Savory: Add a handful of diced apples or raisins for a touch of sweetness.
- Southern Soul Food Style: Include a splash of hot sauce and a dash of Creole seasoning.
- Asian-Inspired: Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and a sprinkle of ginger.
- Garlic-Lovers’ Cabbage: Double the garlic for an extra punch.
- Carrot and Cabbage Mix: Toss in some julienned carrots for color and texture.
- Cheesy Fried Cabbage: Stir in some shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese.
- Herbaceous Touch: Add thyme, oregano, or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
- Cabbage and Potatoes: Toss in some diced potatoes for a more filling side dish.
- Cabbage Stir-Fry: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for a stir-fry vibe.
- Lemon Butter Cabbage: Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and a pat of butter.
- Creamy Fried Cabbage: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese.
- Vinegar Tang: Use balsamic or red wine vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar.
What to Serve It With
- Fried chicken
- Smothered pork chops
- Cornbread
- Mashed potatoes
- Barbecue ribs
- Grilled salmon
- Shrimp and grits
- Meatloaf
- Baked macaroni and cheese
- Rice and beans
- Roasted turkey or chicken
- Southern-style green beans
- Black-eyed peas
- Pulled pork sandwiches
- Garlic butter shrimp
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftover Fried Cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: While fresh is best, you can freeze Fried Cabbage for up to 2 months. Reheat it gently on the stovetop to maintain its texture.
- Reheating: Warm leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to refresh the flavors.
How Much Fried Cabbage to Make for Family Gatherings
For a family gathering, plan on about 1 cup of cooked cabbage per person. If you’re serving a crowd of 10, start with 2 medium heads of cabbage. It’s better to have a little extra—leftovers are just as good!
How Far in Advance Can I Make Fried Cabbage?
Fried Cabbage can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, then reheat it on the stovetop just before serving. Add a little butter or broth to bring back that fresh-made taste.
Southern Fried Cabbage: The Perfect Side Dish to Elevate Any Meal
Ingredients
Instructions
- Start by washing and chopping your cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Dice your onion, mince the garlic, and chop the bacon. Make sure everything is ready to go before you start cooking.
- In a large skillet or cast-iron pan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. Remove the bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and set them aside, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the pan.
- Add the diced onion to the skillet with the bacon fat. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
- Toss the chopped cabbage into the skillet. Stir it around to coat it in the bacon fat, onions, and garlic.
- Sprinkle the smoked paprika, garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper over the cabbage. Stir everything together, ensuring the seasonings are evenly distributed.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let the cabbage cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the cabbage starts to stick, you can add a tablespoon or two of water or chicken broth to deglaze the pan.
- Stir in the apple cider vinegar (if using) and the cooked bacon. Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
- Remove the skillet from the heat, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top, and serve your Fried Cabbage warm.
