12 Delicious Fried Cabbage Recipes You Must Try

Hungry for a dish that’s both comforting and quick to whip up? Look no further than fried cabbage, a versatile veggie that’s about to become your new weeknight hero. Whether you’re craving something savory, spicy, or sweet, our roundup of 12 delicious fried cabbage recipes has got you covered. Dive in and discover how this humble ingredient can transform your meals into something truly special.

Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon

This Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon is a dish that brings back memories of family gatherings and the comforting aroma of bacon filling the kitchen. Trust me, it’s a simple yet flavorful side that pairs perfectly with just about any main course.

Ingredients

• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 large head cabbage, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
2. Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté in the bacon drippings until translucent, about 3 minutes. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Tip: Garlic burns easily, so keep an eye on it.
4. Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet, tossing to coat in the drippings. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
5. Cover and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender. Tip: If the skillet seems dry, add a tablespoon of water to help steam the cabbage.
6. Remove the lid, stir in the apple cider vinegar and cooked bacon, and cook for an additional 2 minutes to combine the flavors.

Zesty and savory, this dish offers a delightful crunch with a smoky undertone from the bacon. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal.

Spicy Fried Cabbage with Sausage

Most evenings, when I’m craving something hearty yet simple, I turn to this Spicy Fried Cabbage with Sausage recipe. It’s a dish that reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen, where the aroma of spices and sizzling sausage filled the air, promising a meal that was both comforting and bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 head cabbage, chopped
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
2. Add 1 lb sliced smoked sausage to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Tip: For extra flavor, let the sausage sit undisturbed for a minute before stirring to get a nice sear.
3. Stir in 1 diced large onion. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add 1 chopped head of cabbage, 1 tsp red pepper flakes, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Stir to combine. Tip: If your skillet is too full, add the cabbage in batches, allowing it to wilt slightly before adding more.
5. Pour in 1/4 cup water. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender. Tip: Check the water level halfway through; if it’s dry, add a splash more to prevent sticking.
6. Remove the lid and increase the heat to medium-high. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to evaporate any remaining liquid.

Perfectly tender cabbage with a spicy kick pairs wonderfully with the smoky sausage. Serve it over a bed of rice or alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.

Garlic Butter Fried Cabbage

Very few dishes can claim to be both incredibly simple and wildly flavorful, but this Garlic Butter Fried Cabbage is one of them. I stumbled upon this recipe during a lazy Sunday when I was craving something hearty yet easy to whip up, and it’s been a staple in my kitchen ever since.

Ingredients

• 1 head cabbage, thinly sliced
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter, allowing it to melt completely.
2. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant. Tip: Keep the heat medium to prevent the garlic from burning.
3. Add the thinly sliced cabbage to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat with the garlic butter.
4. Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes over the cabbage, stirring to distribute the seasonings evenly.
5. Cook the cabbage for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s tender and slightly caramelized. Tip: For extra flavor, let some edges of the cabbage get a bit crispy.
6. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the cabbage sit for 2 minutes before serving. Tip: This rest time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Crisp, buttery, and with just the right amount of kick, this Garlic Butter Fried Cabbage is a game-changer. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fold it into warm tortillas for an unexpected twist on taco night.

Fried Cabbage with Apples and Onions

Growing up in a household where cabbage was a staple, I’ve always been on the lookout for ways to jazz it up. That’s how I stumbled upon this delightful combination of fried cabbage with apples and onions—a dish that’s as comforting as it is unexpected.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 apples, cored and thinly sliced
• 1 head cabbage, cored and thinly sliced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes.
2. Add 1 large onion, thinly sliced, to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Tip: Don’t rush the onions; letting them cook slowly brings out their natural sweetness.
4. Add 2 apples, cored and thinly sliced, to the skillet. Cook for another 3 minutes, until the apples start to soften.
5. Tip: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for a more complex flavor profile.
6. Stir in 1 head cabbage, cored and thinly sliced, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, until the cabbage is wilted and slightly caramelized, about 10 minutes.
7. Tip: If the skillet seems dry, add a splash of water to help the cabbage cook evenly.
8. Finish by drizzling 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar over the dish, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Every bite of this dish offers a delightful contrast between the sweet apples, the savory onions, and the slightly tangy cabbage. Serve it alongside grilled pork chops for a meal that’s sure to impress.

Healthy Fried Cabbage with Turkey

Finally, a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious! I stumbled upon this Healthy Fried Cabbage with Turkey recipe during one of my weekend meal preps, and it’s been a staple ever since. It’s the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, making it a hit for both busy weeknights and lazy Sundays.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 4 cups shredded cabbage
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup diced bell pepper

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
2. Add 1 lb ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Season the turkey with 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp onion powder. Stir to combine.
4. Add 1/2 cup diced onion and 1/2 cup diced bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are soft, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in 4 cups shredded cabbage. Cover and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage is tender but still crisp.
6. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Absolutely love how the cabbage retains a slight crunch, contrasting beautifully with the savory turkey. Serve it over quinoa for an extra protein boost or enjoy it as is for a low-carb delight.

Fried Cabbage and Noodles

Nothing brings back memories of my grandmother’s kitchen quite like the smell of fried cabbage and noodles simmering on the stove. It’s a dish that’s as comforting as it is simple, perfect for those nights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. I’ve tweaked her recipe over the years, but the soul of the dish remains unchanged.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb cabbage, shredded
• 8 oz egg noodles
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 2 tbsp butter

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes.
2. Add the thinly sliced onion to the skillet, cooking until translucent, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet, mixing well with the onions and garlic. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring every few minutes, until the cabbage is tender but still has a bit of crunch.
5. While the cabbage cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
6. Season the cabbage with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, adjusting the spices to your liking.
7. Add the cooked noodles and butter to the skillet with the cabbage, tossing everything together until the butter is melted and the noodles are well coated.
8. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Delightfully simple, this dish combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the earthy crunch of cabbage, all tangled up in buttery noodles. Serve it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for an extra layer of flavor.

Fried Cabbage with Carrots and Peas

Kind of like finding a hidden gem in your fridge, this Fried Cabbage with Carrots and Peas recipe is my go-to when I need something quick, nutritious, and utterly satisfying. It’s a dish that reminds me of my grandma’s kitchen, where simplicity always led to the most flavorful outcomes.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 1/2 cup sliced carrots
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat (350°F) until shimmering.
2. Add 1/2 cup diced onion to the skillet, sautéing for 2 minutes until translucent. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
3. Incorporate 2 cups shredded cabbage and 1/2 cup sliced carrots into the skillet, stirring to combine with the onions.
4. Cook the vegetable mixture for 5 minutes, stirring every minute to ensure even cooking. Tip: The cabbage should start to soften but still retain a bit of crunch.
5. Add 1/2 cup frozen peas to the skillet, mixing well with the other vegetables.
6. Season the mixture with 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp garlic powder, stirring to distribute the seasonings evenly.
7. Continue cooking for another 3 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender but not mushy. Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.

Just like that, you’ve got a vibrant, colorful side that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. The cabbage offers a delightful crunch, while the sweetness of the carrots and peas balances the savory notes perfectly. Try serving it alongside grilled chicken or mixing it into warm quinoa for a hearty meal.

Fried Cabbage with Smoked Sausage

Deliciously simple and packed with flavor, this Fried Cabbage with Smoked Sausage is a dish that reminds me of cozy family dinners. It’s a one-pan wonder that brings together the smoky depth of sausage with the sweet, tender crispness of cabbage, and it’s become a staple in my kitchen for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 large head cabbage, cored and chopped
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes.
2. Add 1 lb smoked sausage slices to the skillet, cooking until browned on both sides, approximately 5 minutes total. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure even browning.
3. Stir in 1 medium diced onion, cooking until translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add 1 large head of chopped cabbage to the skillet, sprinkling with 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp garlic powder. Tip: Adding the cabbage in batches can help it cook more evenly.
5. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp, about 10 minutes. Tip: For a bit of extra flavor, deglaze the pan with a splash of apple cider vinegar.

Perfectly balanced between smoky, sweet, and savory, this dish offers a satisfying crunch with every bite. Serve it over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or alongside crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices.

Fried Cabbage with Ground Beef

Believe it or not, the first time I made Fried Cabbage with Ground Beef, it was a happy accident. I was rummaging through my fridge, looking for something quick and hearty, and voila—this dish was born. It’s become a weeknight staple in my house, and I bet it’ll win over your family too.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium head cabbage, chopped
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika

Instructions

1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (350°F).
2. Add 1 lb ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Tip: Drain excess fat if desired, but leaving a little adds flavor.
4. Add 1 diced large onion and 2 minced garlic cloves to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
5. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
6. Mix in 1 chopped medium head cabbage, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp paprika. Stir well to combine.
7. Reduce heat to medium (300°F), cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender.
8. Tip: For a bit of crunch, cook the cabbage for only 8 minutes.
9. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 2 minutes before serving.

Mmm, the result is a savory, slightly sweet dish with the cabbage perfectly tender and the beef richly flavored. Try serving it over a bed of rice or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.

Fried Cabbage with Shrimp

My love for quick, flavorful dishes led me to create this Fried Cabbage with Shrimp recipe, perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a dish that reminds me of summer evenings at my grandma’s house, where simplicity and taste went hand in hand.

Ingredients

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 medium head cabbage, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
2. Add 1 lb shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Cook for 2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add 3 cloves minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
4. Add 1 medium head thinly sliced cabbage to the skillet, along with 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
5. Cook cabbage for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to soften but still retains some crunch.
6. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, add 1 tbsp lemon juice, and stir everything together. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through.
7. Tip: For extra flavor, let the cabbage sit undisturbed for a minute before stirring to allow it to caramelize slightly.
8. Tip: If you prefer a bit more heat, adjust the red pepper flakes to your liking.
9. Tip: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish, but if you’re in a pinch, a splash of vinegar works too.

You’ll love the contrast of the tender shrimp against the crisp cabbage, with just the right amount of spice and tang. Try serving it over a bed of quinoa or with a side of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious flavors.

Fried Cabbage with Mushrooms

Goodness, have you ever had one of those days where you crave something simple yet utterly satisfying? That’s exactly how I felt when I first whipped up this Fried Cabbage with Mushrooms dish. It’s a humble recipe that packs a punch of flavor, and it’s become a go-to in my kitchen for those busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cups sliced mushrooms
• 4 cups chopped cabbage
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp soy sauce

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat (350°F).
2. Add 2 cups sliced mushrooms to the skillet, sautéing until they start to brown, about 5 minutes. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure they brown nicely.
3. Stir in 4 cups chopped cabbage, spreading it evenly across the skillet.
4. Sprinkle 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper over the cabbage and mushrooms, mixing well.
5. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still crisp. Tip: Keep the heat at medium to prevent burning.
6. Drizzle 1 tbsp soy sauce over the mixture, tossing to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes. Tip: The soy sauce adds depth, but feel free to adjust the amount to your liking.

Absolutely delightful, this dish offers a wonderful contrast of textures—the crispness of the cabbage against the meaty mushrooms. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fold it into a warm tortilla for a quick veggie wrap.

Fried Cabbage with Corned Beef

Kicking off the weekend with a hearty dish that’s both simple and satisfying, Fried Cabbage with Corned Beef is my go-to when I need something quick yet flavorful. It’s a recipe that reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen, where the smell of cabbage frying would fill the air, promising a delicious meal ahead.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb corned beef, chopped
• 1 medium head cabbage, sliced
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
2. Add 1 small diced onion and sauté for 3 minutes, until translucent.
3. Stir in 2 cloves minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add 1 lb chopped corned beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook for 5 minutes until slightly crispy.
5. Tip: For extra flavor, let the corned beef get a bit crispy at the edges.
6. Mix in 1 medium head sliced cabbage, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes.
7. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes, until the cabbage is tender but still has a bit of crunch.
8. Tip: If you prefer your cabbage softer, cover the skillet for the last 5 minutes of cooking.
9. Adjust seasoning if necessary, then remove from heat.
10. Tip: A splash of apple cider vinegar at the end can add a nice tangy contrast to the dish.

Vibrant and packed with flavor, this Fried Cabbage with Corned Beef offers a delightful contrast between the tender cabbage and the crispy, savory beef. Serve it over a bed of mashed potatoes for a comforting meal that’s sure to please.

Conclusion

Out of all the ways to enjoy cabbage, these 12 fried cabbage recipes stand out for their simplicity and flavor. Perfect for any home cook looking to spice up their meal rotation, each recipe promises a delicious twist on this humble vegetable. We’d love to hear which one becomes your favorite—drop us a comment below! And don’t forget to share the love by pinning this article on Pinterest. Happy cooking!