This Savory Southern Cabbage Skillet is a hearty, flavorful dish packed with crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and garlic, all tossed with tender cabbage. It’s the perfect comfort food side dish for any meal!
Ingredients
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium head green cabbage, cored and sliced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp butter (or bacon grease for extra flavor)
- ½ cup chicken broth (optional, for tenderness)
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy.
- Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pan.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Add the diced onion to the bacon grease and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the Cabbage:
- Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet and toss to coat in the bacon grease.
- Season with smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- Sauté & Steam:
- Stir occasionally and let the cabbage cook down for about 10-15 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
- If needed, add chicken broth for extra moisture and to help soften the cabbage.
- Finish & Serve:
- Stir in butter and crispy bacon pieces.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes, then taste and adjust seasoning.
- Serve warm and enjoy with cornbread, grilled meats, or as a flavorful side!
Tips for the Best Southern Cabbage:
✔ Use fresh cabbage – Avoid pre-shredded cabbage for better texture.
✔ Control the spice – Add more red pepper flakes if you like heat.
✔ Let it caramelize – The longer you cook, the sweeter the cabbage gets!
Enjoy your Savory Southern Cabbage Skillet, a true Southern classic full of smoky, buttery, and garlicky goodness! 🥓🥬✨