Slow Cooker Cabbage & Bacon
Tender cabbage, smoky bacon, sweet onions, and savory seasonings come together in this easy Slow Cooker Cabbage & Bacon recipe. The cabbage slowly absorbs all that delicious bacon flavor while becoming wonderfully soft and buttery.
It’s a simple, budget-friendly side dish that goes beautifully with roasted beef, chicken, pork, or even a hearty bowl of soup. ❤️
🛒 Ingredients
- 1 large head green cabbage, chopped
- 8 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes, optional
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, optional
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Cook the bacon:
Add chopped bacon to a skillet over medium heat. Cook until browned and crisp. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, reserving about 1–2 tablespoons of the bacon drippings.
2. Sauté the onion:
Add the diced onion to the bacon drippings and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
3. Prepare the slow cooker:
Add the chopped cabbage to the slow cooker. Pour the cooked onions and garlic over the cabbage.
4. Add the seasonings:
Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and red pepper flakes if using.
5. Add the liquid:
Pour the broth around the cabbage. Add the butter and about half of the cooked bacon.
6. Slow cook:
Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 2½–3½ hours, stirring once or twice if convenient, until the cabbage is tender.
7. Add the finishing touches:
Stir in the apple cider vinegar if using. Taste and adjust the seasoning.
8. Serve:
Top with the remaining crispy bacon and fresh parsley. Serve hot.
💡 Pro Tips
- Don’t add too much broth. Cabbage releases plenty of moisture as it cooks.
- Save some crispy bacon for the end so you get a delicious crunchy topping.
- For deeper flavor, use the bacon drippings when sautéing the onions.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- A splash of apple cider vinegar at the end balances the richness of the bacon beautifully.
- If you prefer firmer cabbage, check it earlier rather than letting it cook for the full time.
🍽️ What to Serve With It
This cabbage is delicious alongside:
- 🥩 Roast beef
- 🍗 Baked or roasted chicken
- 🐖 Pork chops
- 🌭 Smoked sausage
- 🥔 Mashed potatoes
- 🍲 Hearty beef stew
❓ Quick Q&A
Can I use turkey bacon?
Yes, although the flavor will be lighter and there will be less rendered fat for cooking the onions.
Can I add sausage?
Absolutely! Smoked sausage or kielbasa makes this a heartier one-pot meal.
Can I make it spicy?
Yes. Add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or a little hot sauce to taste.
Can I use red cabbage?
Yes, although green cabbage gives the most traditional flavor and texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for about 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
❤️ Final Bite
If you love simple comfort food, this Slow Cooker Cabbage & Bacon belongs on your dinner table. 🥬🥓 The cabbage becomes tender and flavorful while the smoky bacon and onions give every bite an irresistible savory richness.
Simple ingredients, almost no effort, and a whole lot of homemade goodness!
