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Cozy Cabbage and Bacon Skillet

cabbage and bacon skillet recipe - featured image

A quick and easy skillet dish combining crispy bacon and caramelized cabbage for a warm, comforting meal perfect for chilly evenings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon (preferably Applewood smoked)
  • Half a medium head green cabbage, thinly sliced
  • 1 small yellow or white onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Olive oil or bacon fat for sautéing
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Slice the cabbage thinly (about 1/8 inch thick), thinly slice the onion, and mince the garlic. Pat the bacon dry with paper towels if needed.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon slices and cook until crispy, about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally for even browning. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
  3. In the bacon fat, add the sliced onions. Cook over medium heat for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and just turning golden. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet and stir well to coat with the bacon fat and onions. Spread the cabbage out evenly and let it cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes to develop crispy edges. Stir and repeat the process, cooking for another 5-7 minutes until cabbage is tender and golden in spots.
  5. Season with smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Crumble the cooked bacon and toss it back into the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for another 1-2 minutes to combine flavors.
  6. Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top, and serve warm straight from the skillet.

Notes

If the skillet seems dry, add a splash of water to help soften the cabbage without burning. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure cabbage crisps instead of steams. Use rendered bacon fat for best flavor and crispiness. Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet to maintain texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: cabbage, bacon, skillet, crispy, savory, quick dinner, easy recipe, comfort food