Crispy Pan-Fried Cabbage with Bacon & Onions
Crispy Pan-Fried Cabbage with Bacon & Onions is one of those dishes that can transform mealtime from mundane to magical. Imagine the satisfying crunch of tender cabbage paired with smoky, crispy bacon and sweet, caramelized onions. That delightful contrast is not just satisfying for your taste buds; it also fills your kitchen with an enticing aroma that’s hard to resist. It’s not just a side dish; when served alongside your favorite protein, it quickly becomes the highlight of the meal.
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There’s something nostalgic about preparing this dish; I recall my grandmother making a similar recipe on chilly evenings, filling the house with warmth and comfort. The beauty of Crispy Pan-Fried Cabbage with Bacon & Onions is that it’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress family and friends. So, grab your skillet and let’s get started; you’re going to love this!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: It comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of smoky bacon and aromatic onions infuses the cabbage with a depth of flavor you won’t forget.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: Vibrant green cabbage and crispy bits create a visually appealing dish that looks as good as it tastes.
- Flexible Serving: This dish fits any occasion, whether you’re having a casual dinner, hosting a party, or looking for a hearty breakfast side.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Feel free to customize the recipe, making it gluten-free or vegan by swapping in alternatives like plant-based bacon.
Ingredients You’ll Need
6 slices thick-cut bacon: The heart and soul of this dish. Thick-cut bacon gives a hearty texture and rich flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, turkey bacon can work well too.
1 medium yellow onion, chopped: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the dish. You can substitute with red onion for a milder taste.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the cabbage with fragrant undertones. Feel free to add more if you’re a garlic lover!
1/2 large green cabbage, chopped into square pieces (about 8 cups): This is the star of our show. The cabbage softens beautifully and takes on the flavors of the bacon. For a twist, you could use Napa cabbage for a slightly different texture.
1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning: Brings a little spice and flair to the dish. If you want extra heat, feel free to adjust this amount or substitute it with your favorite seasoning blend.
Salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, to taste: Essential for balancing the flavors. Always adjust these to suit your palate.
How to Make Crispy Pan-Fried Cabbage with Bacon & Onions
Cook Bacon: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, fry the 6 slices of chopped thick-cut bacon over medium-high heat for about 5-8 minutes. You want it crispy, so keep an eye on it and stir occasionally. Once it’s done, remove it with a slotted spoon, allowing the excess grease to drip back into the pan for flavor down the line.
Sauté Onions: With the bacon rendered, reduce the heat to medium and toss in 1 medium chopped yellow onion. Sauté until it’s soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. The fragrance will fill your kitchen and set the stage for the flavors to come.
Add Garlic: Once the onions are perfect, mix in 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. This step is crucial—the garlic releases its essential oils, making everything taste incredible.
Incorporate Cabbage: Time to add our star player! Toss in 1/2 of a large chopped green cabbage along with 1/2 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, and sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste. Stir well and then cover the pan. Turn the heat down to medium-low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes. During this time, stir occasionally and watch as the cabbage wilts, soaking up the delicious flavors.
Finish the Dish: When the cabbage is tender and cooked down, remove the lid. Stir in the reserved crispy bacon and add red pepper flakes if you like an extra kick. Serve it hot, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself going back for seconds!
Storing & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can sit at room temperature for about 2 hours, but be sure to refrigerate if you won’t be eating it right away. Refrigerated, it will stay good for up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portions for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy again, reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-10 minutes or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes. Just remember that the texture may soften after freezing, so adding a sprinkle of fresh red pepper flakes can refresh the flavor!
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Avoid burning your bacon by keeping an eye on the heat; medium-high is often the sweet spot.
Don’t rush the onions! Allowing them to caramelize deeply will add extra layers of flavor to your dish.
Stir frequently when cooking the cabbage. This ensures even cooking and prevents some pieces from becoming too soft.
If you want a lighter dish, consider reducing the bacon and replacing it with olive oil for sautéing instead.
Feel free to make this a one-pan meal by adding cooked proteins like chicken or sausage for an all-in-one dish.
Leftovers can be repurposed for breakfast; mix them into scrambled eggs for a tasty morning dish!
Crispy Pan-Fried Cabbage with Bacon & Onions embodies comfort food at its best. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and a great way to enjoy the lasting combination of bacon and cabbage. Cooking it allows you to enjoy the rich history behind comfort foods while bringing something simple yet delightful into your home. Enjoy experimenting with this dish; feel free to add your own twists along the way!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use other types of cabbage?
Absolutely! While green cabbage is a classic choice, feel free to explore Napa cabbage or even red cabbage for a pop of color and slightly different flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This dish keeps well in the fridge and can be easily reheated. Just remember to store in an airtight container for freshness.
How can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
For a vegetarian version, skip the bacon and use a plant-based alternative or simply sauté the vegetables in olive oil for flavor. You might also consider adding beans or lentils for extra protein.
What can I serve with Crispy Pan-Fried Cabbage with Bacon & Onions?
This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, as a side for roast chicken, or even tossed into pasta dishes for a different spin. The possibilities are endless!
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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-fried
- Cuisine: American
Description
Satisfy your cravings with this Crispy Pan-Fried Cabbage with Bacon & Onions. Its simple preparation and delightful flavor make it a fantastic dish for a quick dinner or a healthy meal.
Ingredients
- 6 slices bacon, chopped into small pieces (preferably thick cut)
- 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, deep skillet or Dutch oven, fry the chopped bacon over medium-high heat until crispy, about 5-8 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and place in a bowl. Drain about half of the bacon drippings, keeping some for cooking.
- Lower the heat to medium and add the chopped onions. Cook until soft and translucent, about five minutes. Then, add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Introduce the chopped cabbage into the skillet along with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well. Cover the pan and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the cabbage is softened, remove the lid and mix in the crispy bacon. If desired, sprinkle with red pepper flakes and serve hot.
Notes
Thick cut bacon adds a richer flavor; feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
Stirring occasionally helps the cabbage cook evenly and prevents it from sticking to the pan.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
