Easy Southern Fried Cabbage Recipe is a classic Southern side dish full of flavor and comfort. It is quick, simple and delicious.
This recipe brings tender cabbage, savory seasonings and a little smoky taste from bacon or smoked meat. Learning how to make Easy Southern Fried Cabbage at home is perfect for beginners.
The Ingredients for Easy Southern Fried Cabbage are simple and the steps are straightforward. Whether for a weeknight dinner or holiday meal, this dish adds a tasty, healthy touch to your table.
My Experience With This Recipe
The first time I made Easy Southern Fried Cabbage, my kitchen smelled amazing. The bacon crisped perfectly, adding smoky flavor to the cabbage.
As the cabbage cooked, it became tender but not mushy. I loved how fast it was to prepare. Even beginners can get this right on the first try.
I served it with fried chicken and it paired beautifully. My family loved it so much that it became a regular side dish. This recipe is simple, flavorful and satisfying.
Recipe Card Info
- Recipe Name: Easy Southern Fried Cabbage
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Course: Side Dish
- Cuisine: Southern / American
- Calories: 120 kcal per serving
Equipment List
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Serving bowl
Ingredients You Need for Easy Southern Fried Cabbage
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- ¼ cup chicken broth or water
Instructions
1. Prepare Ingredients
Chop cabbage, onion and garlic. Cut bacon into small pieces. Measure seasonings and broth.
2. Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove some grease, leaving a small amount for flavor.
3. Sauté Onion and Garlic
Add chopped onion and garlic to skillet. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until onion is soft and fragrant.
4. Add Cabbage
Add chopped cabbage to the skillet. Stir to coat with bacon fat, onion and garlic. Cook for 5 minutes.
5. Season the Cabbage
Sprinkle salt, black pepper and red pepper flakes. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasonings.
6. Add Broth and Simmer
Pour chicken broth or water into the skillet. Cover and let cabbage cook 8–10 minutes until tender.
7. Stir Occasionally
Check cabbage every few minutes. Stir gently to prevent burning. Ensure it cooks evenly and stays tender.
8. Finish and Serve
Once cabbage is soft and flavorful, remove from heat. Transfer to a serving bowl and enjoy warm.
Recipe Tips
- Use fresh cabbage for best texture and flavor.
- Don’t overcook, or cabbage becomes mushy.
- Adjust red pepper flakes for your preferred heat level.
- Leftover bacon adds extra flavor to the cabbage.
- Serve immediately for the best taste.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
Serving Suggestions
Easy Southern Fried Cabbage pairs well with fried chicken, roasted pork or grilled sausage. Serve alongside mashed potatoes or cornbread for a hearty Southern meal.
It is a healthy, flavorful side that complements rich main dishes. The smoky bacon and tender cabbage bring warmth and comfort to every meal.
Best Sides To Serve With
Serve with Southern favorites like fried catfish, collard greens or macaroni and cheese. Cornbread, mashed potatoes and black-eyed peas also make excellent sides. A simple green salad can balance the richness of bacon and seasonings.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain texture.
Add a splash of water or broth if cabbage seems dry. Avoid microwaving too long, as it may overcook the cabbage.
Easy Southern Fried Cabbage Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of green cabbage chopped
- 4 slices bacon chopped
- 1 small onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
- ¼ cup chicken broth or water
Instructions
Prepare Ingredients
- Chop cabbage, onion and garlic. Cut bacon into small pieces. Measure seasonings and broth.
Cook the Bacon
- In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove some grease, leaving a small amount for flavor.
Sauté Onion and Garlic
- Add chopped onion and garlic to skillet. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until onion is soft and fragrant.
Add Cabbage
- Add chopped cabbage to the skillet. Stir to coat with bacon fat, onion, and garlic. Cook for 5 minutes.
Season the Cabbage
- Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasonings.
Add Broth and Simmer
- Pour chicken broth or water into the skillet. Cover and let cabbage cook 8–10 minutes until tender.
Stir Occasionally
- Check cabbage every few minutes. Stir gently to prevent burning. Ensure it cooks evenly and stays tender.
Finish and Serve
- Once cabbage is soft and flavorful, remove from heat. Transfer to a serving bowl and enjoy warm.
Notes
- Use fresh cabbage for best texture and flavor.
- Don’t overcook, or cabbage becomes mushy.
- Adjust red pepper flakes for your preferred heat level.
- Leftover bacon adds extra flavor to the cabbage.
- Serve immediately for the best taste.
FAQs about Easy Southern Fried Cabbage
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, omit bacon and use olive oil or butter for flavor. Add smoked paprika for smoky taste.
How long does cabbage take to cook?
Cooking time is about 15–20 minutes. Cabbage should be tender but slightly firm for best texture.
Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?
Yes, pre-shredded cabbage works, but reduce cooking time slightly to prevent overcooking.
Can I freeze leftover cabbage?
It is not recommended. Freezing may make cabbage watery and soft. Best to eat fresh.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, carrots, bell peppers or onions can be added for extra flavor and color.
Conclusion
Easy Southern Fried Cabbage Recipe is a quick, flavorful and comforting side dish. Learning how to make Easy Southern Fried Cabbage at home is simple, even for beginners.
The Ingredients for Easy Southern Fried Cabbage are easy to find and the steps are easy to follow. This dish pairs perfectly with Southern favorites like fried chicken, cornbread or mashed potatoes.
With smoky bacon, tender cabbage and simple seasonings, it becomes a family favorite. Try it today for a taste of classic Southern cooking.
Sara Collins is a food blogger at TastyDive. She shares simple and family-friendly recipes made with everyday ingredients. Her mission is to help home cooks enjoy tasty meals without stress.
