Southern-Style Fried Cabbage

Southern-Style Fried Cabbage is a comforting, skillet-cooked classic that turns simple ingredients into deep, satisfying flavor. From the first sizzle, tender cabbage softens in rendered bacon fat while sweet onions melt down and coat every bite. Meanwhile, gentle seasoning allows the vegetables to shine without overpowering the dish.

Historically, fried cabbage became a staple in Southern kitchens because it was affordable, filling, and endlessly adaptable. Over time, it earned its place on family tables as a dependable side dish for Sunday suppers, holiday spreads, and everyday meals. Today, this version keeps the heart of the classic while refining the balance for a cleaner, more modern taste.

Whether served alongside roasted meats, grilled chicken, or cornbread, this dish delivers warmth and comfort in every forkful. Most importantly, Southern-Style Fried Cabbage proves that humble ingredients, when treated with care, can still feel rich, cozy, and special.

Recipe Yield: 4 servings

INGREDIENTS

1 large green cabbage, cored and chopped
8 oz bacon, thick-cut, chopped
1 large yellow onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
2 Tbsp chicken broth or water
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 Tbsp unsalted butter

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Render the bacon:
First, place chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until deeply golden and crisp. Transfer bacon to a plate, leaving the drippings in the skillet.

2. Sauté the onions:
Next, add olive oil to the skillet if needed. Then add sliced onions and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring often, until soft and lightly caramelized.

3. Add garlic and spices:
After that, stir in minced garlic, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

4. Cook the cabbage:
Now, add chopped cabbage in batches, stirring well after each addition. Cook for 8–10 minutes, tossing frequently, until cabbage is tender with lightly golden edges.

5. Finish the dish:
Finally, splash in chicken broth and add butter. Stir gently, then fold the cooked bacon back in. Cook 1–2 minutes more, taste, and adjust seasoning before serving.

HELPFUL TIPS TO PERFECT THIS RECIPE

• Let the cabbage soften naturally: Cooking over medium heat allows the cabbage to release moisture slowly, which prevents sogginess while building deeper flavor.
• Balance smoke and sweetness: Sweet onions mellow the salty bacon, so avoid rushing this step for the best overall taste.
• Finish with butter: Adding butter at the end smooths out the flavors and gives the dish a richer, more polished finish.