Cabbage Recipes (2)

Cabbage Recipes

These cabbage recipes are quick, flavorful, and incredibly adaptable perfect for Southern-style sides, Asian-inspired stir-fries, vegetarian meals, or hearty dishes with meat. Whether you’re using green, red, napa, savoy, or purple cabbage, this method delivers tender, savory results in under 30 minutes.

Cabbage Recipes (1)
Cabbage Recipes (1)

Ingredients

  • 1 medium head green cabbage, cored and sliced
  • 3 slices bacon, chopped (optional)
  • 1 small white onion, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (if not using bacon)
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • Pinch of sugar (optional)

Optional Add-Ins

  • ½ pound ground beef
  • 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
  • 1 teaspoon cumin and 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce and 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Directions

  1. Heat a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
    • If using bacon, cook until crisp, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove excess grease if necessary, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan.
    • If not using bacon, heat olive oil instead.
  2. Add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  3. Stir in the sliced cabbage, salt, pepper, and sugar if using. Cook for 8 to 12 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cabbage becomes tender but still slightly crisp.
  4. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve hot as a side dish or main course.

Easy Variations

  • Ground Beef and Cabbage: Brown ground beef first, then add cabbage and cook as directed.
  • Chicken and Cabbage: Stir in cooked shredded chicken during the final few minutes.
  • Baked Cabbage: Transfer cooked mixture to a baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 to 20 minutes.
  • Asian-Style: Add soy sauce and sesame oil during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
  • Vegetarian Version: Skip bacon and use olive oil or butter for richness.
  • Spiced Version: Add cumin and turmeric for a warm, earthy flavor.
  • Spicy Version: Stir in red pepper flakes for heat.
Cabbage Recipes (3)
Cabbage Recipes (3)

Preparation Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10–15 minutes
Total Time: 20–25 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Calories: Approximately 180–220 per serving (varies by add-ins)