Southern Fried Cabbage

Southern Fried Cabbage Recipe: Easy, Comfort-Food Classic Packed With Flavor

If you’re craving a simple, down-home side dish that tastes like it came straight from a Southern kitchen, this Southern Fried Cabbage recipe is it. It’s smoky, savory, slightly sweet, and incredibly satisfying, made with humble ingredients that come together fast. Whether you serve it alongside fried chicken, pork chops, or cornbread, this dish delivers bold flavor with minimal effort and zero fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Southern Fried Cabbage Recipe

This recipe is everything comfort food should be. It’s quick to make, budget-friendly, and loaded with flavor thanks to bacon, onions, and simple seasonings. It’s naturally low-carb, easily customizable, and works just as well for weeknight dinners as it does for holiday spreads. Best of all, it transforms an everyday vegetable into a dish people actually ask for seconds of.

Serving Size and Time Breakdown

Serving Size: 4 to 6 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Kitchen Equipment Required

Large skillet or cast iron pan
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring spoons

Ingredients

1 medium head green cabbage, chopped
6 slices bacon, chopped
1 medium yellow onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1 teaspoon black pepper
0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
0.5 cup chicken broth or water
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, optional

How to Make Southern Fried Cabbage

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, stirring occasionally. Once cooked, leave the bacon grease in the pan and remove excess only if there is too much.

Add the sliced onion to the bacon grease and cook until softened and lightly caramelized, about five minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet in batches if needed. Stir well to coat the cabbage in the bacon fat. Season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes if using.

Pour in the chicken broth, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let the cabbage cook for about 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but not mushy.

Finish with a splash of apple cider vinegar if desired, adjust seasoning to taste, and serve hot.

Tips for the Best Southern Fried Cabbage

Use a cast iron skillet if possible for the best flavor and even cooking. Slice the cabbage into thicker pieces to prevent it from becoming too soft. Let the onions cook fully before adding the cabbage to build depth of flavor. Taste and season at the end since bacon adds natural saltiness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcrowding the pan can cause the cabbage to steam instead of fry, so cook in batches if necessary. Avoid overcooking, as cabbage can turn mushy quickly. Using too much liquid will dilute the flavor, so keep the broth minimal. Skipping seasoning until the end can result in bland cabbage.

Variations and Substitutions

For a meat-free version, skip the bacon and use butter or olive oil with smoked paprika for flavor. Add sliced smoked sausage, ham, or turkey bacon for a heartier dish. Sweet onions can replace yellow onions for a milder taste. For extra Southern flair, add a pinch of sugar or a splash of hot sauce. Purple cabbage can be mixed in for color, though it will slightly change the flavor.

How to Store and Meal Prep

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. This dish works well for meal prep and can be made a day ahead, as the flavors deepen over time. Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Serve Southern Fried Cabbage alongside fried chicken, meatloaf, pork chops, or cornbread. It also pairs well with black-eyed peas or mashed potatoes. Garnish with extra crispy bacon bits or freshly cracked black pepper for a rustic presentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Southern Fried Cabbage without bacon?
Yes, you can substitute butter or oil and add smoked paprika for a similar smoky flavor.

Is Southern Fried Cabbage healthy?
It can be part of a balanced meal. It’s low in carbs and high in fiber, especially when made with minimal bacon.

Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?
Yes, but fresh cabbage provides better texture and flavor.

How do I keep cabbage from smelling strong?
Do not overcook it and add a splash of vinegar at the end to balance the aroma.