Cabbage & Potatoes with Bacon is a rustic, one-pan dish that delivers the perfect balance of hearty comfort and savory flavor. Tender cabbage and buttery potatoes are cooked in smoky bacon drippings, then finished with crispy bacon bits for added richness and texture. Simple and satisfying, it can be served as a side or a complete main dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is the definition of cozy, homestyle cooking. The combination of golden potatoes, wilted cabbage, and smoky bacon offers a satisfying depth of flavor with minimal ingredients. It’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and made entirely in one skillet—ideal for weeknight dinners, Sunday meals, or even as a savory breakfast alongside eggs. The optional splash of apple cider vinegar brightens the dish and balances the richness, while fresh parsley adds a hint of freshness.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- thick-cut bacon, chopped
- green cabbage, chopped
- baby potatoes, halved
- onion, sliced
- garlic, minced
- smoked paprika
- salt and black pepper
- apple cider vinegar (optional)
- chopped parsley (for garnish)
directions
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pan.
- Add the sliced onion to the skillet and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic, halved baby potatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cover and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add the chopped cabbage and stir well to combine. Cover again and cook for another 10–12 minutes, or until the cabbage and potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally.
- Optional: Stir in apple cider vinegar just before finishing for a tangy contrast.
- Return the cooked bacon to the skillet and gently mix everything together.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories per Serving: Approximately 320 kcal
Variations
- Add Protein: Stir in sliced smoked sausage, shredded chicken, or cooked ground beef for a more filling main dish.
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
- Vegan Option: Omit bacon and use olive oil or plant-based butter; add smoked paprika and a splash of liquid smoke for depth.
- Cheesy Twist: Top with shredded cheddar or Parmesan just before serving.
- Add Greens: Stir in spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. Avoid freezing, as the texture of cabbage and potatoes may change after thawing.
FAQs
Can I use red or Yukon gold potatoes?
Yes, any waxy or all-purpose potato works well. Just make sure to cut them into uniform pieces for even cooking.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
No, baby potatoes don’t need peeling. Just give them a good rinse and halve them before cooking.
Can I use pre-cooked bacon?
Yes, but you’ll miss out on the flavorful drippings. If using pre-cooked bacon, add a tablespoon of butter or oil to the skillet for sautéing.
Is the apple cider vinegar necessary?
It’s optional, but it adds a nice brightness that balances the dish. Lemon juice can be used as an alternative.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats well. Prepare it in advance and warm it up in a skillet before serving.
What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs well with roasted meats, grilled sausage, or a fried egg for brunch. It’s also great as a stand-alone meal.
Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
Yes, though the flavor and color will be slightly different. Red cabbage tends to be a bit firmer and sweeter.
How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking?
Make sure to stir occasionally and keep the heat at medium. A nonstick skillet or well-seasoned cast iron pan also helps.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free as written.
Can I add broth or water for moisture?
If the pan seems dry or you prefer a saucier texture, add a splash of chicken or vegetable broth during cooking.
Conclusion
Cabbage & Potatoes with Bacon is a simple, wholesome dish that brings the comforting flavors of home-cooked meals to your table. With tender veggies, crispy bacon, and a smoky, savory finish, this one-pan recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether served on its own or alongside your favorite protein, it’s sure to become a go-to comfort food favorite.
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Cabbage & Potatoes with Bacon
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Cabbage & Potatoes with Bacon is a hearty, rustic one-pan dish full of savory comfort. Tender cabbage and buttery baby potatoes are sautéed in flavorful bacon drippings, then finished with crispy bacon bits and fresh herbs. A simple yet satisfying Southern-inspired side or main dish.
Ingredients
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6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
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1 small head of green cabbage, chopped
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1 1/2 lbs baby potatoes, halved
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1 small onion, sliced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
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2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
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In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pan.
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Add sliced onion to the drippings and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
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Stir in garlic, halved baby potatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cover and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Add chopped cabbage, cover again, and cook for another 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage and potatoes are tender.
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Stir in apple cider vinegar for a touch of brightness (optional).
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Return cooked bacon to the skillet and mix gently.
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Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
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Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well in place of baby potatoes.
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Add kielbasa or smoked sausage to make it a full meal.
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Can be made ahead and reheated in a skillet or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish / Main / Skillet Meal
- Method: Stovetop / Sautéed
- Cuisine: Southern-Inspired / American
