Southern Cooked Cabbage is a classic comfort-food side dish packed with tender cabbage, crispy turkey bacon, sweet onions, and rich buttery flavor. Simmered slowly in chicken broth and seasoned with garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, and a splash of apple cider vinegar, this simple recipe delivers a delicious balance of savory, smoky, and slightly tangy flavors.
Whether you’re preparing a Sunday family dinner, a holiday meal, or an easy weeknight supper, this Southern-style cabbage is a satisfying addition to the table. It’s made in one pot with everyday ingredients, and the flavorful cooking juices make every bite extra delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Southern Cooked Cabbage Recipe
- Rich, savory flavor: Turkey bacon, butter, garlic, and onions create a delicious base for the cabbage.
- Tender and comforting: Slow simmering allows the cabbage to soften while absorbing the seasonings and broth.
- Easy one-pot cooking: Everything comes together in a single Dutch oven, making cleanup simple.
- A classic Southern-inspired side: It pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, cornbread, pork, or mashed potatoes.
- Customizable seasoning: Add crushed red pepper for heat or adjust the vinegar for a brighter finish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 large green cabbage, chopped
- 3 tablespoons turkey bacon grease
- 6 slices turkey bacon, chopped
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup chicken broth
Seasonings and Flavorings
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
How to Make Southern Cooked Cabbage
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
Remove any damaged outer leaves from the cabbage and rinse it thoroughly under cold running water. Cut the cabbage into quarters and remove the tough center core from each piece.
Chop the cabbage into medium, bite-sized pieces and place them in a large colander. Rinse again to remove any remaining dirt, then allow the cabbage to drain well.
Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon
Place a large, heavy-bottomed Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped turkey bacon and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and crispy.
Transfer the cooked turkey bacon to a plate and set it aside. Leave the flavorful drippings in the pot.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Add the turkey bacon grease to the same pot and let it heat for about 1 minute. Add the finely chopped yellow onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, until softened and translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Add the unsalted butter and stir until completely melted.
Step 4: Add the Cabbage
Add half of the chopped cabbage to the pot. Stir gently to coat the pieces with the buttery bacon grease and cook for about 3 minutes, allowing the cabbage to begin softening.
Add the remaining cabbage and stir carefully until everything is evenly coated. Adding the cabbage in batches makes it easier to stir and helps it begin wilting without overcrowding the pot.
Step 5: Season the Cabbage
Sprinkle the seasoned salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and dried thyme over the cabbage.
If you enjoy a little heat, add the crushed red pepper flakes. Sprinkle in the granulated sugar, then stir thoroughly to distribute the seasonings throughout the pot.
Step 6: Simmer Until Tender
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the liquid to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid.
Cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally so the cabbage cooks evenly. Carefully remove the lid, watching for escaping steam, and stir the cabbage from the bottom to prevent sticking.
Continue cooking uncovered for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cabbage reaches your preferred tenderness. Leaving the pot uncovered allows some of the liquid to evaporate, concentrating the buttery, savory flavor.
Step 7: Add the Turkey Bacon and Vinegar
Return the cooked turkey bacon to the pot and stir gently to distribute it throughout the cabbage.
Pour the apple cider vinegar over the cabbage and stir to combine. Let everything cook for another 2 minutes so the flavors can blend.
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add extra black pepper or a small pinch of seasoned salt, keeping in mind that the bacon and broth may already provide plenty of salt.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Remove the pot from the heat and sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley over the cabbage.
Let the cabbage rest for 5 minutes before serving. Transfer it to a large serving bowl and spoon some of the buttery cooking juices over the top. Add extra crispy turkey bacon as a garnish if desired.
Serve hot and enjoy this comforting Southern-inspired side dish.
Tips for the Best Southern Cooked Cabbage
Choose a fresh, firm cabbage. Look for a heavy head with tightly packed leaves and no extensive browning or soft spots.
Cut the cabbage evenly. Medium-sized pieces cook more consistently than a mixture of very large and very small pieces.
Don’t rush the onions and garlic. Letting the onions soften and the garlic become fragrant builds a flavorful foundation for the dish.
Add the cabbage in batches. A large cabbage can fill the pot at first, but it will shrink considerably as it cooks.
Keep an eye on the liquid. The cabbage should simmer gently rather than boil vigorously. If the pot becomes too dry before the cabbage is tender, add a small splash of chicken broth.
Balance the flavor at the end. Apple cider vinegar brightens the rich, buttery cabbage. Add a little more if you prefer a tangier finish, but do so gradually.
Adjust the texture to your liking. Cook for less time if you prefer cabbage with a little bite, or extend the cooking time if you like it very soft.
What to Serve with Southern Cooked Cabbage
This flavorful cabbage is versatile enough for everyday dinners and special occasions. Try serving it with:
- Roasted chicken: A classic pairing that makes a satisfying family meal.
- Cornbread: Perfect for soaking up the savory cooking juices.
- Mashed potatoes: Their creamy texture complements the tender cabbage.
- Roasted or baked turkey: A comforting side for a holiday-inspired dinner.
- Pork chops: The savory flavors work especially well together.
- Rice: A simple way to turn the cabbage into a heartier meal.
- Black-eyed peas or beans: Excellent choices for a traditional Southern-inspired spread.
Variations and Substitutions
Make It Spicier
Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce when serving. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
Add More Vegetables
Sliced carrots or chopped bell peppers can be added with the onion for extra color and sweetness. Allow them to soften before adding the cabbage.
Use Regular Bacon
Regular bacon can replace turkey bacon if preferred. Cook it until crisp and use some of its rendered fat in place of the turkey bacon grease. Because regular bacon can be saltier, taste before adding extra seasoned salt.
Make It Vegetarian
For a meat-free version, omit the turkey bacon and bacon grease. Use olive oil or butter and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. Add a little extra smoked paprika to help create a deeper savory flavor.
Adjust the Sweetness and Tang
The teaspoon of sugar helps balance the savory seasonings, while apple cider vinegar adds brightness. You can reduce the sugar or adjust the vinegar to suit your taste.
How to Store Leftovers
Allow the cooked cabbage to cool slightly, then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
For the best quality, store the cabbage with some of its cooking juices to help keep it moist.
How to Reheat
On the stovetop: Place the cabbage in a skillet or saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until thoroughly hot. Add a small splash of chicken broth if it seems dry.
In the microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring between each interval until evenly heated.
Avoid reheating it for longer than necessary, as the cabbage can become overly soft.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Southern Cooked Cabbage ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare it a day ahead and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little broth if needed. The flavors may become even more developed after resting overnight.
Why is my cooked cabbage watery?
Cabbage naturally releases moisture as it cooks. Leaving the pot uncovered for the final 10–15 minutes helps excess liquid evaporate and concentrates the flavor. If needed, cook it uncovered a little longer, stirring occasionally.
How do I know when the cabbage is done?
The cabbage is ready when it is tender enough to pierce easily with a fork. It should be soft but can still have a slight bite if that’s your preference.
Can I leave out the sugar?
Yes. The sugar balances the savory seasonings and acidity, but it is optional. You can omit it or reduce the amount according to your taste.
What does apple cider vinegar do in this recipe?
Apple cider vinegar adds a gentle tang that brightens the rich flavors of the butter, bacon, and seasonings. It helps keep the finished dish from tasting too heavy.
Can I freeze Southern Cooked Cabbage?
You can freeze it in a freezer-safe container, but the cabbage may become softer after thawing. For the best texture, enjoy it fresh or refrigerated within 3 days.
Southern Cooked Cabbage Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 195 kcal per serving
Ingredients
- 1 large green cabbage, chopped
- 3 tablespoons turkey bacon grease
- 6 slices turkey bacon, chopped
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Remove damaged cabbage leaves, rinse thoroughly, quarter the cabbage, remove the core, and chop into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the turkey bacon for 6–8 minutes until browned and crispy. Transfer to a plate.
- Add the turkey bacon grease to the pot. Sauté the onion for 3–4 minutes, then add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add the butter and stir until melted. Add half the cabbage and cook for 3 minutes, then stir in the remaining cabbage.
- Season with seasoned salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, optional red pepper flakes, and sugar.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the lid and cook for another 10–15 minutes until the cabbage is tender and some liquid has evaporated.
- Stir in the cooked turkey bacon and apple cider vinegar. Cook for 2 more minutes and adjust the seasoning to taste.
- Remove from the heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Final Thoughts
Southern Cooked Cabbage is an easy, comforting side dish that transforms simple green cabbage into something rich, savory, and full of flavor. The turkey bacon, buttery onions, aromatic seasonings, and splash of apple cider vinegar work together to create a dish that belongs alongside all your favorite family meals.
Serve it warm with cornbread, roasted chicken, or mashed potatoes, and don’t forget to spoon a little of that delicious cooking liquid over the top. This simple one-pot recipe is a wonderful way to bring a little Southern-inspired comfort to your dinner table.