There’s something magical about the scent of cabbage cooking low and slow with a hint of smoky bacon. This smothered cabbage delivers that warm, nostalgic feeling right to your dinner table, making it a popular choice for cozy meals and holiday gatherings alike.
Think of it as a classic comfort dish that’s deceptively simple. Featuring tender cabbage, crispy bacon, and a hint of spices, it comes together in one pot without fuss. It’s like what Grandma would make, but ready in under 30 minutes. Plus, it uses pantry staples that you likely have on hand!
I started making this dish years ago when a friend shared it during a potluck in 2015. Everyone kept asking for seconds and thirds! The secret? Give it a good stir at the halfway mark to ensure that glorious flavor gets into every inch of cabbage. After years of testing recipes, this one has become a family favorite, and I know it will be in yours, too.
This smothered cabbage recipe is a deliciously simple southern smothered cabbage dish that brings comfort to your table with minimal effort. Featuring tender cabbage simmered with smoky spices and a creamy, flavorful broth, it makes a perfect easy smothered cabbage side dish or main course. Whether you’re craving a vegan smothered cabbage option or a smoky smothered cabbage delight, this one pot smothered cabbage is sure to become a comforting favorite.
1 large head cabbage chopped into bite-sized pieces
1 medium onion sliced thinly
2 cloves garlic minced
2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
1 teaspoon smoked paprika adds a smoky flavor
1 teaspoon salt enhances the overall taste
1/2 teaspoon black pepper for a hint of spice
1 cup vegetable broth provides moisture and depth
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar adds a tangy kick
1 teaspoon sugar balances the flavors
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for those who like it spicy
Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Method
Start by washing and chopping the cabbage into bite-sized pieces after removing the core.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then cook the thinly sliced onions until they become soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Stir in the chopped cabbage along with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper; continue cooking while stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes.
Pour the vegetable broth, apple cider vinegar, and sugar into the pan, adding red pepper flakes if you want some heat, and mix everything together well.
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, cover the skillet, and let the cabbage cook through for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once the cabbage is tender and flavorful, remove it from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top before serving.
Notes
Keep any leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth to keep the cabbage moist.
Why You’ll Love This Smothered Cabbage Recipe
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Comfort Food at Its Best: With its savory, smoky flavors, it brings that warm, nostalgic feeling to your table, reminiscent of cozy family dinners.
Versatile Dish: Whether you serve it as a side dish or a main course, this smothered cabbage recipe is adaptable and caters to your family’s tastes.
Simple Ingredients: Using just a few pantry staples, it’s both budget-friendly and accessible, making it easy to whip up anytime.
Key Ingredients and Tools
To make this delicious smothered cabbage, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients:
1 large head of cabbage, chopped
1 medium onion, sliced thinly
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup vegetable broth
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish
And don’t forget your trusty tools:
A large skillet or pot for cooking
A sharp knife for chopping
A cutting board for prep work
How It Works Step-by-Step
Prepare the Cabbage: Remove the core from the cabbage head and chop it into bite-sized pieces. Rinse under cold water and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the sliced onion for about 5 minutes until it turns translucent; add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
Add Cabbage and Seasonings: Stir in the chopped cabbage along with the smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Simmer: Pour in the vegetable broth, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. Stir everything well, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes.
Finish and Serve: Once the cabbage is tender, remove from the heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy your comforting dish!
Troubleshooting & Tweaks
Too Watery? If there’s too much liquid at the end, simply increase the heat and let it simmer a bit longer without a lid.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add in other veggies like bell peppers or carrots for added color and nutrition.
Flavor Boost: If you’re a fan of smoky flavors, try adding in a bit of bacon or sausage to turn this into a smoky smothered cabbage dish that is sure to impress.
Make It Creamy: For a creamy version, add a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving.
Quick Storage and Serving Tips
Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to make the most of your smothered cabbage:
Storage Tip
Duration
Refrigerator
3 days in an airtight container
Freezer
Up to 2 months (thaw before reheating)
Reheat your leftovers with a splash of vegetable broth to bring back that delightful moisture. This smothered cabbage also pairs nicely with cornbread for that perfect cozy meal vibe!
Expert Says
Smothered cabbage is not just a flavorful dish; it also packs a nutritional punch. Rich in vitamins K and C, cabbage supports bone health and boosts the immune system. The cooking method helps to soften the fibers, making it easier to digest while enhancing its natural sweetness.
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The Road to Delicious Smothered Cabbage
Perfecting my smothered cabbage recipe was quite the adventureit took several attempts and a few hilarious mishaps, like the time I accidentally added way too much vinegar! With each try, I learned to balance the flavors just right, and now this comforting dish brings back warm memories of family dinners around the table.
FAQs ( Smothered Cabbage )
What is smothered cabbage?
This dish is a flavorful combination of cabbage cooked down until tender, often with added ingredients like bacon or sausage for depth. It’s typically seasoned and simmered to create a comforting, hearty side that complements many meals.
How do I store leftover smothered cabbage?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This meal can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. The flavors will develop even more, making it taste even better when reheated.
What should I serve with smothered cabbage?
This dish pairs wonderfully with meats like fried chicken or pork chops, and it’s a great addition to a holiday meal. You can also serve it over rice or alongside cornbread for a complete comfort food experience.
Conclusion
You’ll love how this smothered cabbage fills your kitchen with the comforting scent of home. It’s quick to whip up, allows for tasty variations, and is ready to delight in just 40 minutes. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
For a bit of flair, toss in some cooked sausage or a sprinkle of cheese on topthose little twists can really elevate your dish! And if you have leftovers (which, let’s be honest, is quite rare), just reheat with a splash of broth to keep it lovely and moist. A trick I learned from my grandma!
I’d love to hear your thoughts! Did you grow up enjoying recipes like this? Snap a photo and share your experiences. Save this recipe for gatherings and family mealsyou’ll want to enjoy it again and again! Here’s to making warm memories around the dinner table!
