Crispy Pan-Fried Cabbage with Bacon & Onions
Crispy Pan-Fried Cabbage with Bacon & Onions is more than just a dish; it’s an ode to comfort food. With every bite, you’re greeted by the delightful crunch of cabbage, perfectly caramelized onions, and the irresistible savoriness of crispy bacon. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a warm, inviting meal that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re looking for a side dish for your main course or a hearty vegetarian option, this fried cabbage will quickly become a family favorite.
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I vividly remember the first time I made this dish—my kitchen was filled with the tantalizing aroma of bacon and onions mingling harmoniously. It was a chilly evening, and I craved something warm and satisfying. The blend of flavors in this crispy pan-fried cabbage just works. Easy to whip up in about 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or for entertaining friends. Trust me, this is a dish you’ll be reaching for again and again!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: With just 5 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking time, it’s a breeze to make!
- Irresistible Flavor: Savory bacon and sweet onions create a mouthwatering flavor that’s sure to please.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant green of the cabbage paired with the crispy bacon makes for a visually tempting side.
- Flexible Serving: Great as a side dish at dinner or even as a filling breakfast option with eggs.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for low-carb diets—simply skip the bacon for a vegetarian delight!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon: The rich flavor of bacon elevates the dish. Thick-cut gives you more meatiness and crispiness, making it truly indulgent. You could also use turkey bacon for a leaner version.
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth. If you prefer a punchy flavor, go for a red onion or shallots.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: A must for that aromatic kick. Fresh is ideal, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
- 1/2 large green cabbage, chopped into square pieces: This is the star of the dish, offering crunch and volume. Savoy cabbage is a good substitute if you want a milder flavor.
- 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning: Brings warmth and a subtle kick. Feel free to adjust according to your spice preference or use paprika for a milder touch.
- Salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors. Always taste as you go along to find the right balance.
How to Make Crispy Pan-Fried Cabbage with Bacon & Onions
Fry the Bacon: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, add the 6 slices of chopped thick-cut bacon over medium-high heat. Fry until crispy, about 5-8 minutes, allowing the bacon to release its rich flavor and fat. Using a slotted spoon, remove the bacon and place it in a bowl for later. Carefully drain about half of the bacon drippings, keeping just enough in the pan for the next steps.
Sauté the Onions: Turn the heat down to medium and toss in the chopped 1 medium yellow onion. Sauté until it’s soft and translucent, around 5 minutes. The onion will absorb the smoky essence left by the bacon, creating a sweet foundation for the cabbage. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and let it cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring to prevent burning.
Add the Cabbage: Now it’s time for the 1/2 large chopped cabbage! Add it to the skillet along with 1/2 tsp of Cajun seasoning, and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything well to combine, ensuring all the cabbage pieces get coated in the flavorful mixture. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and allow it to cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will tenderize the cabbage while keeping some of its delightful crunch.
Finish with Bacon: Once the cabbage has cooked down and is tender, remove the lid and stir in the reserved crispy bacon. If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle with red pepper flakes to taste. Serve this dish hot to enjoy the contrasting textures and rich flavors.
Storing & Reheating
You can store leftovers at room temperature for up to two hours before refrigerating in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to three to four days in the fridge. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is an option—just transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to three months. When reheating, use a stovetop or microwave, heating gently to retain the cabbage’s texture. Keep in mind that the cabbage may become softer after freezing, but the flavors will still be delicious!
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- To prevent the bacon from splattering, consider using a splatter guard while frying.
- If your cabbage seems tough, let it cook a bit longer while covered—it will soften beautifully!
- Do not skip the garnishing with red pepper flakes; it amplifies the dish’s flavor profile, making it even more enjoyable.
- Enjoy making it ahead of time! It reheats well, making it great for meal prep.
Crispy Pan-Fried Cabbage with Bacon & Onions is a dish that not only satisfies but also encourages creativity. Mix up the ingredients, add in some veggies like bell peppers or carrots, or swap the bacon for sausage. Each variation brings its own flair, making this recipe one that will keep on giving throughout the seasons. I can’t wait for you to try making this delightful dish—you’re in for a treat!
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can easily create a vegetarian version by omitting the bacon and using olive oil or butter to sauté the onions and cabbage. For flavor, consider adding some smoked paprika to mimic the taste of bacon.
What other seasonings work well with fried cabbage?
While Cajun seasoning adds a lovely touch, you could also experiment with garlic powder, onion powder, or even Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile. A splash of soy sauce or vinegar before serving can also add a nice tang!
How can I add protein to this dish?
To make it a complete meal, consider incorporating protein like cooked chicken or smoked sausage. Cook the protein in the skillet after the bacon for optimal flavor absorption, or toss in some chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian boost.
How do I know when the cabbage is done cooking?
The cabbage is perfectly cooked when it’s tender but still has a slight crunch. It should have a vibrant green color and be reduced in size. Make sure to taste it as it cooks to find your desired texture!
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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: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This crispy pan-fried cabbage with bacon and onions is a must-try! Its irresistible flavor pairs perfectly with bacon and aromatic garlic, making it an ideal quick dinner or comforting meal. Ready in about 30 minutes, this dish highlights cabbage’s versatility while delivering a satisfying crunch and taste.
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 over medium-high heat until crispy, about 5-8 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and place it in a bowl for later.
- Drain about half of the bacon drippings from the pan, leaving the rest to cook with the other ingredients.
- Lower the heat to medium and add chopped onions to the pan. Cook until soft and translucent, approximately five minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
- Add chopped cabbage to the skillet along with cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well, then reduce heat to medium-low and cover the pan. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- When the cabbage is cooked down, remove the lid and stir in the bacon. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
For extra flavor, use thick cut bacon as it renders more fat and adds depth to the dish.
Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste or add other favorite spices.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
