Southern-Style Cabbage & Potatoes

The aroma of crispy bacon mingling with the earthy scent of cabbage fills the kitchen, transporting you to a Southern diner where comfort food reigns supreme. This Southern-Style Cabbage & Potatoes dish combines tender potatoes and savory cabbage wrapped in the richness of bacon and chicken broth, taking just about 30 minutes to prepare. The balance of flavors and textures makes this a compelling meal that brings a taste of the South to your table.

Ideal for family gatherings or a hearty weeknight dinner, this recipe serves as a warm, nostalgic reminder of simpler times. It can be easily made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to three days, making weeknight cooking a breeze.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The bacon adds a savory crunch that enhances every bite.
• Cooking the cabbage with the broth gives it a rich depth of flavor.
• The dish comes together in under 30 minutes for quick, satisfying meals.
• Leftovers taste even better the next day, as the flavors meld beautifully.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients for a delicious meal:

For the Dish

• 4 medium russet potatoes, (2 lbs)
• 6-8 slices bacon, (1/2 lb) cut into 1/2-inch pieces
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 medium head cabbage, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 2 cups chicken broth

Use unsalted chicken broth for better seasoning control.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use turkey bacon for a lighter version.
• Swap potatoes for sweet potatoes for a sweeter flavor.
• Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
• Use shallots instead of onion for a milder taste.

How to Make It

Creating this hearty dish is easy and rewarding.

Cook Potatoes

Pierce potatoes a few times with a sharp knife and place them on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave for 8 minutes on high (or 5 minutes for smaller potatoes); set aside to cool slightly.

Cook Bacon

In a Dutch oven or large pot, add bacon pieces and cook until very crispy. Using a slotted spoon, remove the bacon from the drippings and set aside.

Sauté Onions

Add the chopped onions to the bacon drippings. Sauté over medium heat for 5 minutes until onions are translucent.

Cook Cabbage

Chop cabbage into large pieces, about 2 inches, removing the core. Add cabbage, salt, and pepper to the onions. Sauté for another 5 minutes.

Prepare Potatoes

Peel the cooled potatoes and dice them into 1-inch pieces. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, and cooked bacon to the cabbage. Gently stir to combine. Cover the pot and cook for 10-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender, stirring occasionally.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: No, bacon will become soggy upon thawing.
Reheat: Warm on the stove over medium heat for 5-7 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Make sure the bacon is crispy for the best texture contrast.
• Adjust the seasoning to your taste before serving.
• Stir occasionally during cooking to ensure even tenderness.
• Use a lid to trap steam for faster cooking of the cabbage and potatoes.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with cornbread for a classic Southern dinner.
• Serve alongside grilled meats for a complete meal.
• Enjoy as a filling lunch with a side salad.