Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage?

Absolutely! Red cabbage works beautifully in this recipe and adds a gorgeous color. Just note that red cabbage takes slightly longer to cook than green, so you might need to add a few extra minutes to your cooking time.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

With a minor modification, yes! Simply omit the brown sugar or replace it with a keto-friendly sweetener. Cabbage is naturally low in carbs, and the bacon adds perfect keto-friendly fats.

My family doesn't like bacon. Can I still make this dish?

Definitely! Check the notes section for a vegetarian option using butter instead of bacon. You could also use olive oil and add a bit of smoked salt or extra smoked paprika to mimic some of that bacon flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead for a party?

Yes, but I'd recommend slightly undercooking the cabbage initially, then reheating and finishing the cooking just before serving. This prevents the cabbage from becoming too soft when reheated.

Easy Fried Cabbage Recipe

Name: Easy Fried Cabbage Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 thick-cut bacon slices, diced; 1/3 cup diced yellow onion; 1/2 head green cabbage, shredded or roughly chopped; 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

Description

This Easy Fried Cabbage recipe is a flavorful and satisfying side dish that’s quick and simple to make. With crispy bacon, tender cabbage, and a hint of seasoning, it’s perfect for pairing with any meal. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or a keto-friendly dish, this recipe is an easy go-to for home cooks.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Base:

6 thick-cut bacon slices, diced
1/3 cup diced yellow onion

For the Cabbage Mixture:

1/2 head green cabbage, shredded or roughly chopped
1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

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Instructions

Cook the Bacon
In a large, heavy skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crisp, about 10 minutes. Once done, use a slotted spatula to remove the bacon and transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate. Do not discard the bacon grease as it will be used in the next steps.
Cook the Onion
In the same skillet with the reserved bacon grease, add the diced yellow onion. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion turns translucent and fragrant.
Prepare and Add the Cabbage
Roughly chop or shred the cabbage and add it to the skillet with the cooked onions. Then, stir in the brown sugar (if using), salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook this mixture for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage softens and becomes tender.
Combine the Bacon and Serve
Return the cooked bacon to the skillet, stirring it in to combine with the cabbage mixture. Mix thoroughly and serve hot as a delicious side dish.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and replace it with 2-3 tablespoons of salted butter to cook the onions and cabbage.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist, or red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 Serving
Calories: 200kcal
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg