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Southern Fried Cabbage Recipe – The Best 5-Step Comfort Dish

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Southern fried cabbage is a classic comfort side dish made by slowly pan-frying fresh green cabbage with onions, simple seasonings, and optional chicken sausage for extra heartiness.

  • Author: Catherine
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Microwave or Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Southern American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large green cabbage, chopped (about 2 pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons cooking oil or butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, sliced
  • 1 cup sliced chicken sausage (optional)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Remove outer leaves from the cabbage, wash thoroughly, dry well, and chop into thick strips or chunks.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the cooking oil or butter.
  3. If using chicken sausage, add it to the skillet and cook until lightly browned, then remove and set aside.
  4. Add sliced onion to the skillet and cook until softened and translucent.
  5. Add the chopped cabbage gradually, stirring to coat it with the oil.
  6. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  7. Cover the skillet and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage begins to soften.
  8. Uncover and continue cooking, allowing excess moisture to evaporate, until the cabbage is tender with lightly golden edges.
  9. Stir the chicken sausage back into the skillet, cook for 2–3 more minutes, then remove from heat and serve hot.

Notes

  • Do not overcrowd the skillet to avoid steaming the cabbage.
  • Dry the cabbage well before cooking for best texture.
  • Adjust seasoning near the end to prevent over-salting.
  • A splash of apple cider vinegar can be added for brightness.

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