Print

Southern Cabbage Recipe

4.9 from 94 reviews

A classic Southern cabbage recipe featuring tender sautéed green cabbage simmered in flavorful chicken broth, enriched with garlic, butter, and olive oil, and optionally topped with crispy bacon and a sprinkle of paprika for a comforting and savory side dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 medium head green cabbage
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 2/3 cups chicken broth
  • 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
  • Paprika, for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. Slice cabbage: Remove the tough outer leaves and core from the cabbage. Cut the cabbage into quarters and then slice each quarter into 1-inch wide strips to prepare for cooking.
  2. Sauté cabbage: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter with the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the sliced cabbage to the pot along with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and chicken broth. Stir to coat the cabbage evenly with the seasonings and liquid.
  3. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 12-15 minutes until the cabbage is tender and infused with flavor. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  4. Add bacon: If using bacon, stir in the crumbled cooked bacon during the last couple of minutes of cooking to warm it through. When serving, sprinkle the dish with paprika to add a subtle smoky flavor and vibrant color.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
  • You can adjust the cooking time depending on how tender or slightly crisp you prefer your cabbage.
  • Using both butter and olive oil helps to balance flavor and cooking temperature to avoid burning the garlic.
  • If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.

Keywords: Southern cabbage, sautéed cabbage, Southern side dish, cabbage with bacon, tender cabbage recipe