Crispy Pan-Fried Cabbage with Bacon & Onions
Crispy Pan-Fried Cabbage with Bacon & Onions is a dish that combines sweet, tender cabbage with the savory depth of crispy bacon and aromatic onions. The fragrance of sautéed garlic mingling with these ingredients fills the kitchen, making your home feel warm and inviting. This recipe is not just a culinary delight; it’s a celebration of comfort food at its finest. Each bite delivers a heaven of textures and flavors, from the crispy crunch of bacon to the velvety softness of cooked cabbage.
Table of Contents
I first discovered this gem while experimenting with budget-friendly meals. It quickly became a go-to side dish for weeknight dinners and family gatherings. Not only does it come together in just about 30 minutes, but it also elevates any main course you pair it with. It’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and brings everyone to the table in no time. I can’t wait for you to experience the deliciousness of crispy pan-fried cabbage with bacon & onions!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: This dish takes just 5 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Irresistible Flavor: The smoky, salty bacon perfectly complements the sweetness of the sautéed cabbage and onions.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant green of the cabbage against the golden bacon creates a beautiful plate that’s as enticing as it is delicious.
- Flexible Serving: This dish shines as a hearty side for dinner but also works perfectly as a satisfying brunch option.
- Diet-Friendly Options: It’s naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free with a few simple swaps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 6 slices thick cut bacon, chopped into small pieces: The star of the dish! Thick cut bacon gives richer flavor and crisp texture. If you prefer a leaner option, center-cut bacon works well.
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth; you can substitute with a sweet onion or shallots for a milder flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that aromatic touch; fresh garlic is recommended as it provides the best flavor.
- 1/2 large green cabbage, chopped into square pieces (about 8 cups): The main attraction here! Use fresh, crisp cabbage for the ultimate texture. You can swap for savoy cabbage for a slightly different taste.
- 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning: Imparts a warm, slightly spicy kick. Feel free to adjust based on your spice preference or use Italian seasoning as an alternative.
- Salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, to taste: Essential for seasoning. Use freshly cracked black pepper for added flavor and adjust salt based on bacon’s saltiness.
How to Make Crispy Pan-Fried Cabbage with Bacon & Onions
Cook the bacon: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, fry the chopped 6 slices of thick cut bacon over medium-high heat until crispy, about 5-8 minutes. The bacon should be a deep golden brown, giving off a mouthwatering aroma. Once done, remove bacon from the pan using a slotted spoon and place it in a bowl for later. Don’t discard all the drippings—drain about half from the pan, leaving enough to sauté the vegetables.
Sauté the onions: Reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped 1 medium yellow onion. Cook until they soften and turn translucent, approximately five minutes. The onions will sweeten and almost melt into the cabbage as they cook. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to let it burn.
Add the cabbage: With the onions and garlic nicely sautéed, it’s time to introduce the 1/2 large green cabbage to the mix. Toss in the 1/2 tsp of Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste—stir well to combine everything. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet. Cook for 10-15 minutes, checking and stirring occasionally. The cabbage should become tender and wilted yet still retaining a bit of crunch.
Finish with bacon: When the cabbage is cooked to your liking, remove the lid and fold in the crispy bacon. If you crave a touch of heat, sprinkle with red pepper flakes as desired. Serve this dish immediately while it’s warm and the bacon is still crunchy!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers of Crispy Pan-Fried Cabbage with Bacon & Onions at room temperature for a couple of hours. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through. Expect some change in texture, but a splash of water can help refresh it.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid burning the garlic by adding it after the onions are soft and fragrant.
- If your cabbage has a tough stem, be sure to remove that part before cooking to ensure tenderness.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving to enhance the overall taste.
- If your skillet is overcrowded, it may not allow the cabbage to fry properly, so make sure to cook in batches if needed.
- For an even heartier dish, consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots which can complement the flavors well.
Crispy Pan-Fried Cabbage with Bacon & Onions not only transforms humble cabbage into a standout dish but also invites creativity in the kitchen. It melds buttery textures with savory flavors that are simply irresistible. Don’t hesitate to tweak the spices or add your favorite elements to customize this recipe to your liking. Whether it’s alongside your favorite main course or as a flavorful standalone dish, it’s sure to bring smiles all around the dinner table. Enjoy this comforting dish that is nothing short of delightful!
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace bacon with mushrooms or a meat substitute for a vegetarian version. Just sauté them in oil to get that savory, umami flavor.
How do I prevent the cabbage from becoming mushy?
To maintain a good texture, avoid overcooking. Cook it just until it’s tender yet still has a slight crunch, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding bell peppers, carrots, or even zucchini. Just adjust the cooking times according to their desired tenderness.
What can I serve with this dish?
Crispy Pan-Fried Cabbage pairs perfectly with proteins like grilled chicken, pork chops, or even a hearty stew. It’s versatile enough to complement various mains, making it a great choice for any meal!
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📖 Recipe Card
Crispy Pan-Fried Cabbage with Bacon & Onions
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Pan Fry
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy pan-fried cabbage with bacon & onions is a delightful dish packed with irresistible flavor. This recipe combines savory bacon, sautéed onions, and tender cabbage, making it a perfect quick dinner option or healthy comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 6 slices bacon, chopped into small pieces
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 large green cabbage, chopped into square pieces (about 8 cups)
- 1/2 tsp cajun seasoning
- salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet or dutch oven, fry the chopped bacon until crispy, about 5-8 minutes over medium-high heat. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside. Drain half of the bacon drippings, keeping the rest in the pan.
- Lower the heat to medium, then add the onions to the skillet. Cook for about five minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet along with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix everything well, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cover the pan. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the cabbage is tender, remove the lid and stir in the cooked bacon. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired and serve hot.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice before serving.
Feel free to substitute the cabbage with other greens like kale or collard greens for a twist.
Adjust the level of Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
