Fried Cabbage with Onions and Bacon (Classic Southern Skillet Recipe)

This Fried Cabbage with Onions and Bacon is a classic Southern side dish that’s savory, smoky, and full of comfort-food flavor. Made in one skillet with crispy bacon, tender cabbage, and sweet onions, it’s the perfect easy side for pork chops, sausage, or cornbread.

⭐ Why You’ll Love This Fried Cabbage

• Old-fashioned Southern comfort food

• One-pan, easy cleanup

• Smoky, savory, and satisfying

• Budget-friendly and filling

• 

• 🛒 Ingredients

  • 6 slices bacon, chopped

  • 1 small head green cabbage, chopped

  • 1 large onion, sliced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • ½ tsp salt (to taste)

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (optional)

  ---

  👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Cook the bacon
     In a large skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving the grease in the pan.

  2. Sauté onions
     Add sliced onions to the skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.

  3. Add garlic
     Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

  4. Add cabbage
     Add chopped cabbage. Toss to coat with bacon grease.

  5. Season & cook
     Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cover and cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage is tender.

  6. Finish
     Stir in cooked bacon and vinegar if using.

  7. Serve
     Serve hot as a side or light main dish.

  ---

  🥄 Tips for the Best Fried Cabbage

  • Use thick-cut bacon for extra flavor

  • Don’t overcook—cabbage should be tender, not mushy

  • Add smoked sausage for a full meal

  • Splash of vinegar brightens the dish

  ---

  📌 What to Serve with Fried Cabbage

  • Cornbread or biscuits

  • Pork chops or kielbasa

  • Fried chicken