Are you tired of the same old boring recipes? Look no further! Cabbage and bacon – a match made in heaven. This classic combination is elevated to new heights in these 18 mouth-watering recipes that will leave your taste buds singing.
From hearty braises to crispy pan-fries, there’s something for everyone in this list of cabbage and bacon delights. Whether you’re a fan of comforting one-pot meals or quick weeknight dinners, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
In this article, we’ll explore the best ways to combine the sweetness of cabbage with the smoky richness of bacon. From classic dishes like German-style skillets to innovative twists like stir-fries and hashes, there’s no shortage of inspiration here. So grab a plate and get ready to indulge in some seriously savory goodness!
Braised cabbage with crispy bacon and onions
This hearty side dish combines tender braised cabbage with the smoky flavor of crispy bacon and caramelized onions, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, cored and chopped
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from pan and set aside.
2. Add the sliced onions to the same skillet and cook until caramelized, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the chopped cabbage, garlic, chicken broth, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer over low heat for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
5. Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Bacon-wrapped cabbage rolls with tomato sauce
Savor the flavors of fall with this hearty and satisfying dish, perfect for a cozy night in. Crisp bacon wraps tender cabbage rolls smothered in rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of tomato sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Remove the tough outer leaves from the cabbage and discard. Cut out the center stem, then slice into 8-10 wedges.
3. In a large skillet, cook the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened. Add the sliced cabbage wedges and cook until slightly wilted.
4. Wrap each cabbage wedge with a slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
5. Place the bacon-wrapped rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy.
6. Serve warm with tomato sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy cabbage and bacon soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, with the added bonus of being incredibly easy to make. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a comforting meal during the week.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the cooked bacon from the pot, leaving the drippings behind.
3. Add the butter, onion, and chopped cabbage to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the cabbage is very tender.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and cooked bacon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pan-fried cabbage with garlic and bacon bits
A classic comfort food dish that’s quick to make and packed with flavor! This recipe combines the sweetness of cabbage with the savory goodness of garlic and crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the sliced cabbage to the pan and stir to combine with the garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and lightly browned.
5. Return the crispy bacon bits to the pan and toss with the cabbage mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon and cabbage stir-fry with soy glaze
A savory and sweet twist on traditional stir-fries, this dish combines the smoky flavor of bacon with the crunch of cabbage, all tied together with a rich soy glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bacon
– 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside. Leave the grease behind.
3. Add the sliced cabbage, minced garlic, soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil to the skillet. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
4. Return the cooked bacon to the skillet and stir to combine with the cabbage mixture.
5. Cook for an additional minute, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Roasted cabbage wedges with bacon crumbles
This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of roasted cabbage and the smoky goodness of bacon, creating a deliciously addictive side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage, cored and cut into 8 wedges
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the cabbage wedges with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the cabbage out in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast the cabbage in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Remove from the oven and sprinkle crumbled bacon over the top of each wedge.
6. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 22-28 minutes
German-style bacon and cabbage skillet
A hearty and flavorful skillet dish that combines crispy bacon, tender cabbage, and savory onions. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of thick-cut German-style bacon
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat until crispy, flipping halfway through (about 6-8 minutes).
2. Remove the cooked bacon from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onions are translucent (about 5 minutes).
4. Add the thinly sliced cabbage to the skillet and stir to combine with the onions and garlic.
5. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Stir in the cooked bacon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bacon-loaded colcannon (mashed potatoes with cabbage)
This creamy mashed potato dish gets a smoky boost from crispy bacon and the earthy sweetness of sautéed cabbage. Perfect as a side or main course, this recipe combines comfort food with a hint of sophistication.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 small head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chives or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and crumble.
3. In the same skillet, add butter and sauté the cabbage until wilted, about 5 minutes.
4. Mash the potatoes with milk or heavy cream, salt, and pepper until smooth.
5. Stir in the cooked bacon and cabbage mixture.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chives or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled cabbage steaks with bacon drizzle
A twist on traditional grilled vegetables, these cabbage steaks are smothered in a savory bacon drizzle that will elevate your outdoor cooking game.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage, cut into 1-inch thick slices
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush both sides of cabbage slices with olive oil.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of vinegar.
4. Grill cabbage for 5-7 minutes per side, or until slightly charred.
5. Meanwhile, whisk together crumbled bacon, Dijon mustard, and remaining vinegar in a small bowl.
6. Brush grilled cabbage steaks with the bacon drizzle.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon and cabbage fried rice
This savory fried rice dish combines the smoky flavor of bacon with the crunch of fresh cabbage, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 small head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the sliced cabbage and cook until slightly wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Push the cabbage mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in an egg (if using) and scramble it with a spatula.
5. Mix the egg into the cabbage mixture.
6. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
7. Stir-fry the rice with the bacon and cabbage mixture for about 2-3 minutes, until well combined.
8. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Slow-cooked cabbage with bacon and apples
Slow-Cooked Cabbage with Bacon and Apples: A Sweet and Savory Delight
This hearty recipe combines the natural sweetness of apples with the smoky flavor of bacon, all wrapped up in a tender and comforting cabbage dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, chopped
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 2-3 apples (Granny Smith or Gala), peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the cooked bacon from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté until softened.
4. Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and add the cooked bacon back into the skillet.
6. Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
7. Add the chopped apples to the skillet during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Bacon-studded cabbage and noodle casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of crispy bacon, sweet cabbage, and tender noodles for a comforting meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. wide egg noodles
– 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and shredded cabbage. Cook for 5 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked noodles, cooked cabbage mixture, and grated cheddar cheese. Stir to combine.
6. Pour the noodle mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with the crispy bacon.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy sautéed cabbage with bacon and chili flakes
A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional sautéed cabbage, this recipe combines crispy bacon, sweet onions, and a kick of heat from chili flakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tsp chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside.
2. In the same pan, add the sliced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes or until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the thinly sliced cabbage to the pan and stir to combine with the onion mixture. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Add the cooked bacon, chili flakes, salt, and pepper back into the pan. Stir to combine and cook for an additional minute.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon and cabbage stuffed bell peppers
This hearty recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory flavors of bacon and cabbage, making for a satisfying and filling main dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups of shredded cabbage
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add the chopped onion to the same skillet and cook until translucent.
5. Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet and cook until slightly wilted.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the cooked cabbage mixture, followed by a sprinkle of cheddar cheese.
7. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and top each with a piece of crispy bacon.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cabbage and bacon hash with fried eggs
Savory and satisfying, this hearty hash combines the sweetness of caramelized cabbage with the smokiness of crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large eggs
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Add the sliced cabbage to the same skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until caramelized and tender.
3. Stir in the cooked bacon, butter, salt, and pepper.
4. Crack the eggs into a separate bowl and season with salt and pepper.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the cabbage and bacon hash. Cook until the whites are set and the yolks are still slightly runny.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon-layered cabbage and cheese bake
This hearty casserole combines the sweetness of caramelized cabbage with the smokiness of crispy bacon, all wrapped up in a gooey cheese blanket. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a satisfying brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add butter and sauté the chopped onion until softened. Add the sliced cabbage and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create layers of cooked cabbage mixture, crispy bacon, and cheese mixture. Repeat this process two more times, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky bacon and cabbage chowder
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the smokiness of bacon with the sweetness of cabbage, perfect for a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked bacon, diced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 head of cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon from the pot, leaving the drippings behind.
3. Add the onions and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the chicken broth, cabbage, potatoes, and cooked bacon back into the pot.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Bacon-wrapped cabbage and sausage kebabs
Bacon-Wrapped Cabbage and Sausage Kebabs: A Delicious Twist on Classic BBQ Fare
These savory kebabs combine the smoky flavor of sausage with the tender sweetness of cabbage, all wrapped up in crispy bacon. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as an impressive appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage
– 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread sausage, cabbage, and bacon onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until sausage is cooked through and cabbage is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your cabbage game with these 18 savory recipes featuring the star of the show: bacon! From hearty braises and skillet dishes to comforting soups and casseroles, each recipe showcases the perfect union between crispy, smoky bacon and tender, flavorful cabbage. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic German-style skillet or something more adventurous like stir-fry with soy glaze, there’s a dish on this list that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
