Looking for a quick, flavorful side dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple? This One-Pan Bacon Fried Cabbage is a savory, one-pan wonder packed with crispy bacon, tender cabbage, and bold mustard-garlic flavor. Whether you serve it as a side or make it the main star with a fried egg on top, this dish is a comfort food classic.
Bacon Fried Cabbage Ingredients
Every ingredient in this Bacon Fried Cabbage plays a role in building layers of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one is important:
- Bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces: The star of the dish. Bacon adds smokiness, saltiness, and crispy texture. Its rendered fat also becomes the flavorful base for sautéing the onions and garlic.
- Onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth. As it cooks down in bacon fat, the onion releases natural sugars that balance the saltiness of the bacon and tang of the mustard.
- Minced garlic cloves: Bold aroma and earthy richness. Garlic brings warmth and umami, enhancing every savory note in the dish.
- Dijon mustard: A tangy flavor booster. Dijon adds sharpness and complexity, cutting through the richness of the bacon and cabbage. It also ties all the savory ingredients together.
- Paprika: Subtle smokiness and color. Paprika adds a mild warmth and a beautiful golden hue to the final dish. You can also use smoked paprika for an extra layer of depth.
- Cabbage, sliced and chopped: The hearty base. Cabbage becomes tender and slightly sweet as it cooks, absorbing the flavors of the bacon and mustard beautifully. It adds bulk and nutrition, making this dish satisfying and wholesome.
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential for balance. Salt enhances all the natural flavors, while black pepper brings a touch of heat to finish the dish off perfectly.
How to Make Bacon Fried Cabbage
1. Render the Bacon
In a large skillet/pot over medium heat, cook the bacon pieces until they’re crispy and golden, about 6–8 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pan.
Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the skillet/pot—cook bacon in batches if needed to get it crispy!
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Add the diced onion to the hot bacon fat. Cook until softened for about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Build the Flavor
Stir in the Dijon mustard, paprika & sea salt, combining well with the onions and garlic. Let it sizzle for about 30 seconds to enhance the flavors.
4. Cook the Cabbage
Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet/pot. Toss to coat evenly with the mustard mixture. Sauté for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Finish and Serve
Return the crispy bacon to the skillet/pot and toss everything together. Season with more sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Substitutions & Add-Ons to Make It Your Own
One of the best things about this Bacon Fried Cabbage Recipe is how customizable it is. Whether you’re working with what’s in your fridge or just want to switch up the flavor profile, here are some easy swaps and delicious additions:
Ingredient Substitutions
- Bacon → Minced beef or sausage
Trying to cut back on pork? Use minced beef for a leaner version, or decased sausage for a more similar savory depth. - Dijon Mustard → Whole Grain or Spicy Brown Mustard
Don’t have Dijon? Whole grain mustard adds texture, and spicy brown brings a bolder kick. - Paprika → Smoked Paprika or Chili Powder
Smoked paprika deepens the smoky notes, while chili powder adds a subtle spice if you want a little heat. - Cabbage → Kale (sukuma wiki)
No cabbage? Try chopped kale—they sauté beautifully and soak up flavor just like cabbage.
Optional Add-Ons for Extra Flavor
- A Splash of Apple Cider Vinegar or Lemon Juice
For a tangy finish, add a tablespoon of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice at the end. It brightens the dish and balances the richness. - Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
If you love a little heat, add ¼ teaspoon with the garlic to infuse the dish with a subtle spicy edge. - Shredded Carrots
Toss in a handful of shredded carrots with the cabbage for a pop of color and natural sweetness. - Top with a Fried Egg
Make it a meal! A fried egg on top transforms this dish into a hearty breakfast, lunch, or dinner. - Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Cilantro, Thyme, or Dill)
A sprinkle of fresh herbs at the end can add brightness and make the dish feel more vibrant and fresh.
BACON FRIED CABBAGE VIDEO
Here is a quick video showing how I made this easy and delicious bacon fried cabbage. You can also subscribe to my YouTube Channel for more recipe videos, kitchen tips & hacks!
OTHER CABBAGE RECIPES FOR YOU TO CHECK OUT
The Best Bacon Fried Cabbage
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet/pot, cook bacon until crisp. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté onion in bacon fat for 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
- Stir in mustard and paprika.
- Add cabbage and cook 10–12 minutes until tender.
- Return bacon, toss to combine, and season to taste.
- Serve hot.
Notes
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