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Skillet of sautéed cabbage with crispy bacon pieces and caramelized onions.

Fried Cabbage with Bacon and Onions

This Fried Cabbage with Bacon and Onions is a simple Southern-style side dish made with bacon, cabbage, onion, bell pepper, garlic, broth, and seasonings. It is savory, smoky, and perfect for easy weeknight meals.
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Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Southern
Keyword: Fried Cabbage with Bacon and Onions
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 8 slices bacon uncooked and chopped
  • 1 medium yellow onion diced
  • 1 bell pepper diced
  • 1 tbsp garlic minced
  • 1 large head cabbage cored and sliced
  • 1/2 c chicken stock or broth
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp liquid smoke optional
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Kosher salt to taste
  • Ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the chopped bacon and cook until browned and crisp. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and transfer it to a bowl. Reserve the bacon drippings in the skillet.
  • Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 6 to 8 minutes, or until softened and lightly caramelized. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 to 2 minutes more.
  • Add the sliced cabbage and sauté for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is mostly tender and lightly browned.
  • Return the cooked bacon to the skillet and stir to combine.
  • Season the mixture with onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir until the cabbage is evenly coated.
  • Add the chicken stock or broth, apple cider vinegar, and liquid smoke, if using. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has evaporated.
  • Season to taste with kosher salt and black pepper.
  • Serve warm.

Notes

To make this Fried Cabbage with Bacon and Onions gluten free, verify that the bacon, chicken broth, spices, and liquid smoke are labeled gluten free, since some brands may include additives or flavorings that contain gluten. The vegetables and apple cider vinegar are naturally gluten free, but packaged ingredients should always be checked carefully if cross-contact is a concern. If serving this dish as part of a gluten-free meal, make sure any accompanying sides are also gluten free.