Slow Cooker Cabbage with Bacon Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, soulful side dish or a simple dinner star, this Slow Cooker Cabbage with Bacon Recipe will quickly become your go-to. It’s that perfect blend of tender, smoky, and tangy, all cooked low and slow to melt-in-your-mouth perfection. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make it weekly—it’s just that fan-freaking-tastic!

Ingredients & Why They Work

Every ingredient in this Slow Cooker Cabbage with Bacon Recipe is thoughtfully chosen to bring out maximum flavor and texture. The smokiness from bacon pairs with cabbage’s mild sweetness and the tang of mustard adds a zing that balances the dish perfectly.

• Bacon: Use good quality bacon, preferably thick cut; its fat renders down and flavors the cabbage beautifully.
• Diced Yellow Onion: Adds subtle sweetness and depth when cooked alongside the bacon.
• Cabbage: Go for a firm, fresh head—green or savoy both work; core removed so pieces cook evenly.
• Jarred Minced Garlic: Convenient and consistent; fresh garlic works too but minced helps distribute flavor evenly.
• Stone Ground Mustard: Adds texture and tang; don’t skip it as it brightens the whole dish.
• Chicken Bone Broth: A richer base than water, it infuses cabbage with savory depth.
• Smoked Paprika: Provides smoky warmth without overpowering, enhancing the bacon’s smokiness.
• Salt and Pepper: Season to taste at the end to balance flavors without over-salting.

Make It Your Way

I love this Slow Cooker Cabbage with Bacon Recipe just as it is, but I’m all about making it suit your taste buds. Feel free to add your favorite spices or switch up the broth base to make the recipe truly yours.

• Spicy Kick: I sometimes add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to give the dish a little heat that wakes up the flavors.
• Vegetarian Swap: Try smoked tofu or tempeh instead of bacon and use vegetable broth for a veggie-friendly version that still keeps that smoky vibe.
• Seasonal Twists: Toss in some chopped apples or pears during the last hour of cooking for a subtle sweetness that’s amazing in fall.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Slow Cooker Cabbage with Bacon Recipe

Step 1: Crispy Bacon and Caramelized Onions Magic

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Chop your bacon into bite-sized pieces, then add to the skillet along with diced yellow onions. Cook until the bacon crisps up nicely and the onions are soft and golden—this combo sets the flavor base for your cabbage. Don’t rush this step; the rendered bacon fat is liquid gold for the dish!

Step 2: Prep the Cabbage Like a Pro

Slice off the cabbage stem first—this helps keep your slow cooker clean and makes removing the core easier. Cut the cabbage in half, then remove the core by angling your knife to get rid of the tough white part. Finally, cut the halves into large chunks roughly 1.5 to 2 inches wide. Bigger pieces hold their shape better during slow cooking and don’t turn to mush.

Step 3: Layer and Pour for Slow Cooker Magic

Place your chopped cabbage in the slow cooker, then spoon the bacon and onions right on top. Make sure to include the flavorful bacon grease—it’s the secret sauce here. Whisk together stone ground mustard, chicken bone broth, smoked paprika, and minced garlic in a small bowl; then drizzle this mixture over the cabbage. This liquid is what infuses everything with tangy, smoky goodness.

Step 4: Slow and Low Until Perfectly Tender

Cover the slow cooker and set it to HIGH for 2-3 hours. You want the cabbage tender, but not mushy, with all those flavors beautifully blended. Keep an eye after the 2-hour mark, especially if your slow cooker runs hot. Once it’s done, season with salt and pepper to taste and give it a gentle stir.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Cabbage with Bacon Recipe

Garnishes

My go-to garnish for this dish is a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives. It adds a pop of color and fresh brightness that contrasts the richness. If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes on top works wonders. I also sometimes add a swirl of sour cream for a creamy touch.

Side Dishes

This Slow Cooker Cabbage with Bacon Recipe pairs beautifully with roasted potatoes, steamed green beans, or even a simple pan-fried chicken breast. On chilly days, I love serving it alongside some thick slices of crusty bread to soak up all those delicious sauces.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, I like to serve this dish in individual rustic ramekins topped with crispy bacon bits and a sprig of fresh thyme. It looks charming and feels extra special. Alternatively, turn it into a loaded cabbage bowl by adding your choice of grains and a protein, then finish with pickled onions for a tangy crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and they stay great for 3-4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for a tastier second serving. Just make sure to cool it fully before refrigerating to keep the texture fresh.

Freezing

To be honest, I don’t really recommend freezing this recipe. Cabbage tends to get watery and mushy after freezing and reheating, which changes the texture and taste. If you do freeze, try to consume within one month and thaw gently in the fridge.

Reheating

I reheat leftovers gently on low power in the microwave or warm them in a covered skillet on the stove with a splash of broth to revive the moisture. This helps keep the cabbage from drying out or getting rubbery.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Cabbage with Bacon Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite sides because it’s so easy, flavorful, and versatile. I’m telling you, the way the smoky bacon infuses into tender cabbage is pure comfort food heaven. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do—once you try it, I have a feeling it’ll be in your slow cooker rotation, too!

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