Southern Fried Cabbage – A Simple, Savory, and Crispy Bacon-Infused Delight Perfect for Any Meal

If you’re looking for a hearty side dish with rich, savory flavors that’s also incredibly easy to make, Southern Fried Cabbage is the recipe you need in your life. With crispy bacon, tender cabbage, and just the right amount of spice, this dish is the perfect companion to any Southern meal. The combination of caramelized onions, garlic, and smoky bacon cooked together with tender cabbage creates a rustic and comforting dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Scroll down for the recipe!

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The Inspiration Behind Southern Fried Cabbage

Southern cooking is all about transforming simple ingredients into delicious meals packed with flavor, and this fried cabbage recipe is a prime example of that. Cabbage, an often underrated vegetable, is elevated to a whole new level when combined with smoky, crispy bacon and a hint of garlic and spice. The bacon grease infuses the cabbage with a deep, savory flavor, while the red pepper flakes add just the right touch of heat. This dish is the perfect side for your favorite Southern classics like fried chicken, meatloaf, or pork chops, and it can even be enjoyed on its own as a simple meal.

Why Southern Fried Cabbage Will Become Your New Favorite Side Dish

Not only is Southern Fried Cabbage incredibly flavorful, but it’s also quick and easy to prepare, making it the perfect dish for busy weeknights or Sunday dinners. With just a few ingredients—bacon, cabbage, onion, garlic, and some simple seasonings—you can create a side dish that’s both hearty and delicious. The crispness of the bacon combined with the tender cabbage and onions makes each bite satisfying and flavorful. Plus, this recipe is easily adjustable, so you can tailor the spices and ingredients to suit your family’s tastes.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings):

• Calories: 200 kcal
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Protein: 7g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fiber: 3g

This dish is relatively low in carbs, making it a great option for those following low-carb or keto diets. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of protein-rich mains and offers a delicious way to include more vegetables in your diet.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Southern Fried Cabbage is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. It’s especially delicious alongside Southern favorites like fried chicken, pork chops, or country ham. The smoky bacon and tender cabbage balance out rich, meaty dishes beautifully, and the subtle spice from the red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.

If you’re looking for a lighter meal, this cabbage dish can also be served as a main course alongside a simple salad or some cornbread for a more well-rounded meal. For extra indulgence, try pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes or macaroni and cheese. The savory, smoky flavors of the cabbage will complement the richness of those sides perfectly.

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Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers of this Southern Fried Cabbage store exceptionally well. Simply transfer any remaining cabbage to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or warm it up in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. If you find the dish has lost some moisture, you can add a splash of water or broth when reheating. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months, just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Fun Fact: The Popularity of Cabbage in Southern Cooking

Cabbage has long been a staple in Southern cooking, prized for its affordability, versatility, and nutritional value. Historically, cabbage was an important crop in the South because it could be grown in cooler months, providing families with fresh vegetables even during the winter. Over time, Southern cooks have found countless ways to prepare cabbage, from braising it with ham hocks to fermenting it into sauerkraut. Southern Fried Cabbage is just one delicious way that this humble vegetable has been transformed into a flavorful, comforting dish that continues to be a favorite at dinner tables across the South.

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Cooking Tips

• Bacon Lovers: If you want even more bacon flavor, save an extra slice or two of cooked bacon to crumble on top just before serving. You can also double the bacon for an extra indulgent dish.
• Get Creative with Spices: While this recipe calls for red pepper flakes, you can customize the spice level to your liking. Add cayenne pepper for more heat or try smoked paprika for a deeper, smokier flavor. You can even add a splash of vinegar for a tangy twist.
• Add Veggies: For extra flavor and nutrition, consider adding chopped bell peppers, carrots, or even mushrooms to the dish. Sauté them with the onions and garlic for a flavorful vegetable medley.

Optional Variations

• Vegetarian Option: To make a vegetarian version of this dish, simply leave out the bacon and use olive oil or butter to sauté the cabbage and onions. You can also add some smoked paprika to replicate the smoky flavor of the bacon.
• Cheesy Cabbage: For a cheesy twist, sprinkle shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese on top of the cabbage right before serving. The melted cheese will add richness and depth to the dish.
• Spicy Kick: If you enjoy spicier foods, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce while cooking. A little bit of spice goes a long way in adding extra flavor to the cabbage.

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Southern Fried Cabbage Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 head cabbage, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1 pound thick-cut bacon, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Cook the bacon: Cut the bacon into bite-sized pieces and fry in a large skillet over medium heat until brown and crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pan.
2. Sauté the onion and garlic: In the same skillet with the bacon grease, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
3. Cook the cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet, stirring to combine it with the onions and garlic. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and salt. Cook the cabbage over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still has a slight bite to it.
4. Combine with bacon: Once the cabbage is tender, stir the cooked bacon back into the skillet, mixing it evenly with the cabbage. Let the flavors meld together for another minute or two before serving.

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Southern Fried Cabbage is an incredibly flavorful and simple dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a side to your favorite comfort foods or enjoying it as a stand-alone dish, the combination of smoky bacon, tender cabbage, and a hint of spice is sure to be a hit.