Baked cabbage with bacon is the unexpected hero of your dinner table, transforming humble ingredients into a dish that’s rich, smoky, and absolutely mouthwatering. Picture tender cabbage leaves, golden and crispy in all the right places, mingling with savory bits of crispy bacon. crispy potatoes with pesto The aroma wafts through your kitchen, teasing everyone to gather around for what promises to be an unforgettable meal.
Now, let’s be honest—cabbage often gets a bad rap. But when you bake it with bacon, magic happens! This isn’t just any side dish; it’s a flavor explosion that can steal the spotlight from any main course. pumpkin hummus for dipping Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This baked cabbage with bacon is incredibly easy to prepare and impresses everyone at the table
- The smoky flavor pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of the cabbage
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing while being versatile enough for any occasion
- Perfect as a side dish or a light meal on its own
I still remember the first time I served baked cabbage with bacon at a family gathering; my uncle who usually turns his nose up at vegetables went back for thirds! For more inspiration, check out this Cabbage Rolls recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Green Cabbage: Choose a firm head of cabbage for the best texture and flavor; look for bright green leaves.
- Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for extra crunch and flavor; it renders beautifully when baked.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality olive oil brings everything together and helps achieve that golden color.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings elevate this dish; adjust according to taste preferences.
- Garlic Powder: Adds depth without overpowering the flavors; it’s essential for that aromatic kick. garlic herb mashed potatoes.
- Paprika: Smoked paprika enhances the overall flavor profile and provides a beautiful color contrast.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures even cooking and perfect crispiness when you put your dish in.
Prepare the Cabbage: Cut the cabbage into wedges or slices, depending on your preference. Aim for uniform sizes so that they cook evenly.
Season Generously: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cabbage wedges with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until well coated. The spices should cling to every leaf.
Add Bacon Goodness: Chop the bacon into small pieces and scatter over the seasoned cabbage. The bacon fat will seep through as it cooks—trust me; this is where the magic happens!
Bake Until Golden Brown: Place everything on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the cabbage edges are crispy and slightly caramelized.
Serve Hot!: Once out of the oven, serve immediately while hot. The combination of textures—the tender cabbage with crunchy bits of bacon—is out of this world!
This baked cabbage with bacon is not just flavorful but also simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight or serve during special occasions like Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.
If you’re looking to switch things up further, consider adding some grated cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking for an extra layer of indulgence!
Enjoy this scrumptious dish that may just become your go-to recipe whenever you’re craving something hearty yet healthy!
You Must Know
- Baked Cabbage With Bacon is not just delicious; it’s a perfect side dish that pairs well with many meals
- The combination of savory bacon and tender cabbage creates a unique flavor that will impress your guests
- Plus, it’s easy to make and requires minimal ingredients
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results, start by preheating your oven to 400°F. While the oven heats up, chop the cabbage into wedges and season it generously with salt and pepper before adding bacon on top for that crispy goodness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this dish by adding spices like paprika or garlic powder. You can also swap out bacon for pancetta or even try adding cheese for a creamy twist that will make your taste buds dance. creamy potato soup.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Start with fresh cabbage for the best flavor and texture
- Make sure to slice the bacon thinly to ensure it crisps up nicely during baking
- Don’t rush the cooking time; allowing the cabbage to caramelize enhances its natural sweetness and flavor
Creating this dish reminds me of a family dinner where my dad insisted on making his “famous” baked cabbage with bacon. We all pretended to be skeptical, but we ended up fighting over the last piece!
FAQ
What type of cabbage is best for baking?
Green cabbage works beautifully due to its sturdy texture and sweet flavor when cooked.
Can I use turkey bacon instead?
Yes, turkey bacon is a healthier alternative that still provides a nice flavor to the dish.
How long should I bake cabbage for optimal tenderness?
Bake for about 30-35 minutes until tender and edges are nicely browned for added flavor.
Baked Cabbage with Bacon
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Baked cabbage with bacon is a delightful dish that elevates simple ingredients into a flavorful sensation. The combination of tender, caramelized cabbage and crispy bacon creates an enticing aroma that draws everyone to the dinner table. This recipe transforms cabbage from a humble vegetable into a star, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight meals. Easy to prepare and visually appealing, this dish is sure to impress and leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 medium green cabbage (about 2 lbs)
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the cabbage into wedges, ensuring uniform sizes.
- In a large bowl, toss the cabbage with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until well-coated.
- Chop the bacon into small pieces and scatter over the seasoned cabbage.
- Spread everything on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes until edges are crispy and caramelized.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 wedge (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
