This Fried Cabbage with Bacon and Onions is a cozy, down-home skillet classic made with tender cabbage, smoky crispy bacon, and sweet caramelized onions all cooked together into one irresistible, comforting dish that’s quick to make, budget-friendly, and packed with rich, savory flavor.
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 6 slices bacon chopped
- 1 medium yellow onion thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 medium head green cabbage cored and sliced (about 6–7 cups)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter if needed
- ½ teaspoon salt more to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar optional, for brightness
Instructions
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In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crisp.
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Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.
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Add the sliced onion to the bacon drippings and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and lightly golden.
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Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Add the sliced cabbage to the pan. If the skillet seems dry, add the olive oil or butter.
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Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.
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Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10–12 minutes until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized.
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Stir the bacon back into the pan and drizzle with apple cider vinegar if using.
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Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot.