- Fried Cabbage and Potatoes
- Ingredients
- Equipment Needed
- Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Step 2: Cook the Bacon
- Step 3: Brown the Potatoes
- Step 4: Cook the Onion
- Step 5: Add Garlic
- Step 6: Add the Cabbage
- Step 7: Cook Until Tender
- Step 8: Add the Bacon
- Step 9: Finish the Dish
- Step 10: Serve
- Storage Instructions
- Tips for the Best Fried Cabbage and Potatoes
- Delicious Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
Fried Cabbage and Potatoes
This Fried Cabbage and Potatoes is a simple, hearty, and flavorful comfort food made with tender potatoes, caramelized cabbage, onions, garlic, and crispy bacon. Every bite is packed with savory goodness, making it a perfect side dish or satisfying main meal. The potatoes are pan-fried until golden and crispy, while the cabbage becomes sweet and tender, creating a delicious combination of textures and flavors. This budget-friendly recipe is easy to prepare with everyday ingredients and is perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium green cabbage, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 4 medium Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, diced
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Green onions, sliced
- Freshly cracked black pepper
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or cast-iron pan
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowl
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Wash the potatoes thoroughly and cut them into evenly sized bite-sized cubes. Leave the skin on for extra texture and nutrients, or peel them if preferred.
Remove the outer leaves of the cabbage, rinse well, and chop it into medium-sized pieces.
Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
Cut the bacon into small pieces.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chopped bacon.
Cook for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bacon becomes crispy.
Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate.
Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet for extra flavor.
Step 3: Brown the Potatoes
Add the olive oil and butter to the skillet with the bacon grease.
Add the diced potatoes in a single layer.
Season with:
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
Cook over medium heat for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally until the potatoes are golden brown and nearly tender.
Avoid stirring too frequently so the potatoes develop a crispy crust.
Step 4: Cook the Onion
Push the potatoes to one side of the skillet.
Add the diced onion.
Cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and slightly caramelized.
Stir everything together.
Step 5: Add Garlic
Add the minced garlic.
Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant.
Do not allow the garlic to burn.
Step 6: Add the Cabbage
Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet.
At first it may seem like a lot, but it will shrink significantly as it cooks.
Sprinkle in:
- Dried thyme
- Dried parsley
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Mix everything well.
Step 7: Cook Until Tender
Cover the skillet with a lid.
Cook over medium-low heat for 10–12 minutes.
Stir every few minutes.
The cabbage will soften while keeping a slight bite.
If the pan becomes dry, add 2–3 tablespoons of water or chicken broth.
Step 8: Add the Bacon
Return the crispy bacon to the skillet.
Mix thoroughly so the bacon is evenly distributed.
Cook another 2–3 minutes.
Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Step 9: Finish the Dish
Turn off the heat.
Sprinkle chopped parsley and sliced green onions over the top.
Add freshly cracked black pepper.
For extra richness, add a small pat of butter and let it melt before serving.
Step 10: Serve
Serve immediately while hot.
This dish pairs wonderfully with:
- Grilled chicken
- Pork chops
- Smoked sausage
- Meatloaf
- Fried eggs
- Roasted beef
- Cornbread
- Dinner rolls
It can also be enjoyed as a complete meal on its own.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
Allow to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 5–7 minutes.
You can also microwave individual portions for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Tips for the Best Fried Cabbage and Potatoes
- Yukon Gold potatoes provide a creamy texture while becoming beautifully crispy.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet, as this can steam the potatoes instead of browning them.
- Fresh garlic gives the best flavor.
- Bacon grease adds incredible richness, but olive oil can be used for a lighter version.
- Stir the cabbage occasionally to prevent sticking while allowing it to caramelize slightly.
- Add smoked paprika for an extra smoky flavor.
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving brightens the dish.
Delicious Variations
Cheesy Version
Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese over the hot vegetables before serving.
Spicy Version
Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or extra crushed red pepper flakes.
Vegetarian Version
Skip the bacon and use olive oil or butter instead. Add sliced mushrooms for a hearty texture.
Sausage Version
Replace the bacon with sliced smoked sausage, kielbasa, or turkey sausage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use red potatoes?
Yes. Red potatoes hold their shape well and roast beautifully.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. Cook the dish completely, cool it, and refrigerate. Reheat in a skillet for the best texture.
Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?
Absolutely. Bagged cabbage or coleslaw mix works well and saves preparation time.
Why is my cabbage watery?
Too much moisture can be released if the pan is overcrowded or covered for too long. Cook uncovered for the last few minutes to evaporate excess liquid.
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 9 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Calcium: 60 mg
- Vitamin C: 70% Daily Value
This Fried Cabbage and Potatoes recipe is a classic comfort dish that combines crispy golden potatoes, tender caramelized cabbage, savory bacon, and aromatic seasonings into a satisfying meal. Whether served as a hearty side or a simple main course, it’s an easy, budget-friendly recipe that’s full of homestyle flavor and perfect for any day of the week.
