Southern Soul Food Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Southern Soul Food Fried Cabbage with Bacon is a classic dish that brings together simple ingredients with bold, comforting flavors. This savory side dish combines tender cabbage with crispy bacon, cooked to perfection and infused with smoky goodness. A staple in Southern kitchens, this side dish is easy to make and pairs perfectly with any meal.

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In my family, the most traditional ways to cook cabbage are to fry it in bacon or simmer it in a large pot on the stove and serve it steamed or boiled, you can find this method in my Southern Cooked Cabbage and Instant Pot Cabbage recipes.

Another common way of eating cabbage is to eat it with corned beef. Check out my Instant Pot Corned Beef and Cabbage here.

Brandi’s Key Ingredients

How to Cut Cabbage

1. Remove Outer Leaves: Peel off any wilted or damaged outer leaves to reveal the fresh, crisp cabbage underneath.
2. Cut the Cabbage in Half: Place the cabbage on a cutting board and slice it in half through the core, from top to bottom.
3. Quarter the Cabbage: Lay the cabbage halves flat on the cutting board and cut them in half again, creating four quarters.
4. Remove the Core: Take each quarter and carefully cut out the hard, white core by making a diagonal slice along the edge of the core. Discard the core.
5. Slice or Chop: Lay each quarter flat and slice the cabbage into thin strips, about 1/2 inch wide. These will cook down nicely and absorb the flavors of the bacon and seasonings.

How to Make Southern Soul Food Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Detailed measurements and full instructions can be found in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

1. Slice up 4 strips of bacon. I like to slice them into medium chunks. Heat a frying pan or stainless skillet on medium-high heat. When hot, add the bacon.
2. Fry the bacon until it is crisp and use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set aside. Leave the bacon grease. That’s where the frying comes in.
3. Add sliced onions, red and green peppers to the pan. Saute until translucent and fragrant.
4. Add in garlic and seasonings.
5. Add the cabbage in batches. It will wilt down a ton.
6. Seal the pot and simmer for 15 minutes.
7. Serve with the cooked bacon.

How to Prevent Mushy Cabbage

• Don’t Overcook the Cabbage: Cabbage cooks quickly, so be sure to sauté it only until tender. Cooking it too long will cause it to become soft and mushy.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you add too much cabbage at once, it will steam rather than fry, which can result in mushiness. Cook in batches if necessary to allow for even cooking.
• Drain Excess Moisture: If the cabbage releases a lot of water, drain or cook off the excess liquid by cooking uncovered for a few extra minutes. This helps to avoid sogginess.

Can You Use Frozen Cabbage?

I have not seen frozen cabbage in stores, but I am familiar with the process of blanching fresh cabbage and then freezing it for later.

If you are using frozen cabbage, ensure it is shredded. Add it to the pan in accordance with the recipe instructions. Monitor the cabbage as it simmers. It may take additional time to soften in comparison to using fresh cabbage.

How to Make it Without the Bacon or Substitute

Bacon can be substituted for sausage or smoked turkey if you wish. Andouille sausage works great.

You can omit the bacon if you wish. Melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter in the pan prior to sauteeing the onions and peppers.

How Long Will it Last in the Fridge

Cover and seal the cabbage. Store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

How to Reheat

The stove is the best way to reheat to keep the same texture. Heat a skillet or pan over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil or butter to the pan if the cabbage seems dry, or a splash of broth or water for moisture. Stir occasionally and cook until the cabbage is heated through.This method helps maintain the original texture and prevents it from becoming too soft.

You can also use the microwave and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until the cabbage is warmed through.

Freezer Tips

You can freeze leftovers tightly covered and sealed for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge.

What to Serve With the Dish

Southern Soul Food Homemade Cornbread
Lemon Pepper Fish
Baked Crab Legs
Baked Turkey Legs
Pan Seared Salmon
Soul Food Cornbread Muffins
Homemade Creamed Corn

More Southern Vegetable Side Dishes

Southern Green Beans with Bacon
Green Bean Casserole with Bacon
Soul Food Okra and Tomatoes
Southern Soul Food Coleslaw Recipe
Southern Soul Food Potato Salad
Spaghetti Salad with Italian Dressing
Southern Black Eyed Peas with Smoked Turkey
Southern Cooked Cabbage

Check out our list of The Best Authentic Soul Food Recipes here.