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Old-Fashioned Cooked Cabbage Recipe (Just Like Grandma's!)

Old-Fashioned Cooked Cabbage Recipe

Tender green cabbage is slowly cooked with bacon, onion, garlic, and a small amount of broth for a comforting Southern side dish. It is simple, savory, and perfect alongside beans, roasted meats, or cornbread.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 large head, about 2 to 2 1/2 pounds Green cabbage
  • 6 slices Bacon, chopped
  • 1 medium Yellow onion, diced
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
Liquid and Seasoning
  • 1/2 cup Water or low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon, or to taste Kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon Granulated sugar, optional
Finishing Ingredient
  • 1 tablespoon Butter, optional

Method
 

Step-by-Step
  1. Remove the tough outer leaves from the cabbage. Cut it into quarters, remove the core, and slice the quarters into roughly 1-inch pieces. Rinse and drain the cabbage well.
  2. Place the chopped bacon in a large Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium heat. Cook for 7 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bacon is browned and most of the fat has rendered.
  3. Add the diced onion to the bacon and drippings. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, until softened, then add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
  4. Add the cabbage in batches if necessary, stirring after each addition so the leaves can wilt and fit into the pan. Season with kosher salt, black pepper, and the optional sugar.
  5. Pour in the water or low-sodium chicken broth. Cover and cook over medium-low heat for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but not completely mushy.
  6. Stir in the butter, if using, then taste and adjust the salt and pepper. Serve hot with the bacon mixed throughout or sprinkled over the top.

Notes

Do not add more liquid than called for because cabbage releases considerable water as it cooks. For variations, add 1/2 to 1 teaspoon red-pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce, replace the bacon with ham or smoked sausage, or finish with a small amount of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. Refrigerate leftovers promptly and reheat gently.