Southern Fried Cabbage
Southern Fried Cabbage is a simple, flavorful side dish made with tender cabbage, crispy bacon, onions, and savory seasonings. This soul food favorite is budget-friendly, easy to make, and pairs perfectly with fried chicken, cornbread, pork chops, and other Southern classics.
With smoky bacon flavor and perfectly cooked cabbage, this recipe transforms humble ingredients into a comforting family favorite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Easy one-pan recipe
Budget-friendly side dish
Loaded with bacon flavor
Perfect Southern comfort food
Great for holidays and Sunday dinners
Ready in under 30 minutes
Ingredients
1 large head green cabbage, chopped
8 slices bacon, chopped
1 medium onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
Step 1: Cook The Bacon
In a large skillet cook bacon over medium heat until crispy.
Remove bacon and set aside.
Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet.
Step 2: Cook The Onion
Add onion to the skillet.
Cook for 4-5 minutes until softened.
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Step 3: Add The Cabbage
Add chopped cabbage.
Season with:
Salt
Pepper
Garlic powder
Smoked paprika
Stir well.
Step 4: Cook Until Tender
Cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
The cabbage should become tender while still maintaining some texture.
Step 5: Finish
Add:
Cooked bacon
Butter
Apple cider vinegar
Stir until combined.
Serve warm.
Tips For The Best Fried Cabbage

Don't overcook the cabbage.
Use thick-cut bacon for extra flavor.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
What To Serve With Fried Cabbage
Storage
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
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Final Thoughts
This Southern Fried Cabbage recipe is smoky, savory, and packed with Southern comfort food flavor. It's an easy side dish that belongs on every family dinner table.