Irresistible Southern Cabbage with Bacon and Sausage

Few dishes capture the heart of Southern cooking like a well-seasoned cabbage stir-fry with bacon and sausage. This hearty dish is packed with savory goodness, where crispy bacon, smoky sausage, and tender cabbage come together in perfect harmony. Not only does this dish embody comfort food at its finest, but it’s also an incredibly easy recipe that brings out the natural flavors of the cabbage with just a few key ingredients. Whether you’re serving it as a main or a side dish, this cabbage recipe will make everyone at the table feel at home.

Ingredients (and Their Roles)

1. 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped – The star of the dish, cabbage provides a tender, slightly sweet base that soaks up all the rich flavors from the bacon and sausage.
2. 4 slices of bacon, chopped – Adds a salty, crispy texture and renders flavorful fat that we’ll use to sauté the other ingredients, infusing the dish with its smoky richness.
3. 1 medium onion, sliced – Onion adds sweetness and depth of flavor, balancing out the savory bacon and sausage.
4. 3 cloves of garlic, minced – Garlic provides a subtle kick and aromatic warmth that enhances the other flavors.
5. 1 tablespoon of olive oil – Assists with the sautéing process and ensures the cabbage cooks evenly.
6. Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning, bringing out the full flavor of each ingredient.
7. Red pepper flakes (optional, to taste) – Adds a touch of heat, perfect for those who like a bit of spice.
8. 1/2 pound of smoked sausage, sliced (optional) – If you want to make this dish more substantial, adding smoked sausage will make it heartier with a deeper smoky flavor.
9. 1 tablespoon of butter – This optional addition enriches the cabbage, making it velvety and flavorful.
10. 1/4 cup of water – Helps soften the cabbage, allowing it to cook down without drying out.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the Bacon
   In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s crispy, about 5-7 minutes. This will render the bacon fat, which will later be used to cook the other ingredients. Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.

2. Sauté the Onion
   Add the olive oil to the skillet, then add the sliced onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent, soaking up that delicious bacon flavor.

3. Add Garlic and Sausage (if using)
   Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant. If you’re adding smoked sausage, do it here to let it brown slightly for extra flavor.

4. Cook the Cabbage
   Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet, stirring it to combine with the onion, garlic, and sausage (if included). Pour in the water, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, and toss everything together.

5. Simmer and Caramelize
   Cover the skillet and cook the cabbage mixture over medium-low heat for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the cabbage to become tender and slightly caramelized, enhancing its natural sweetness.

6. Finish with Bacon and Butter
   Return the cooked bacon to the skillet, stirring it through the cabbage. Add the butter for a rich finish, letting it melt and coat the cabbage, creating a lush texture. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is hot and well-combined.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cabbage

• Use a Heavy Skillet: Cast-iron skillets hold heat well and help caramelize the cabbage, giving it a beautiful golden-brown color.
• Avoid Overcrowding: If making a large batch, cook in stages to avoid steaming the cabbage. This will help it cook evenly and retain a slight crunch.
• Customize Your Seasonings: For a flavor boost, add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce at the end.

Serving Suggestions

This cabbage dish is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of mains. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, pork chops, or cornbread for a classic Southern-inspired meal. For a low-carb meal, it also works well on its own or over cauliflower rice.

Wrapping It Up

With its simple ingredients and rich, comforting flavors, this Southern cabbage with bacon and sausage recipe is a true winner. It’s perfect for weeknights, holiday meals, or anytime you want a satisfying and flavorful side dish. Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a household favorite. Give it a try and taste why this cabbage dish has a place in every Southern kitchen.