If you’re looking for a cozy, flavorful side dish that practically cooks itself while filling your kitchen with irresistible smells, you’re in for a treat. This Slow Cooker Cabbage with Bacon Recipe is hands-down one of my favorite go-to recipes when I want something simple, comforting, and just downright delicious. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked on that perfect combination of tender cabbage soaked in smoky bacon goodness. Keep reading, and I’ll share all my secrets to help you nail this recipe every time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hands-Off Cooking: Throw everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day.
- Incredible Flavor: Bacon and smoked paprika add a rich, smoky depth to tender cabbage — the combo is pure comfort.
- Simple Ingredients: You probably already have everything on hand, making it a perfect weeknight side.
- Versatility: Easily customize it with spices or add-ins to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Ingredients & Why They Work
Every ingredient in this Slow Cooker Cabbage with Bacon Recipe is a little star that plays its part perfectly. From smoky bacon to tangy mustard, they come together to create a dish that’s anything but boring. Here’s a quick rundown on why these ingredients are my favorites and some tips on picking the best:
- Bacon: I love using thick-cut bacon for extra smoky flavor and a nice crispy texture before it goes into the slow cooker.
- Yellow Onion: Adds a subtle sweetness as it caramelizes with the bacon.
- Cabbage: Green cabbage is my go-to — firm and hearty enough to hold up during slow cooking without turning mushy.
- Minced Garlic: Jarred garlic is a great time saver here, but fresh works beautifully if you have it.
- Stone Ground Mustard: Gives a tangy zing that cuts through the richness of the bacon perfectly.
- Chicken Bone Broth: Infuses a cozy, savory base and helps the cabbage steam tender.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds depth with a subtle smoky warmth that makes this dish sing.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential to balance and bring out all the flavors.
Note:
Exact ingredients and measurements are listed in the recipe card below.
Make It Your Way
I’ve played around with this Slow Cooker Cabbage with Bacon Recipe quite a bit, and I encourage you to make it your own. Whether you like a bit of heat, prefer turkey bacon, or want to add a splash of apple cider vinegar for tang, there’s room to customize without losing that classic comforting vibe.
- Variation: One of my favorite tweaks is to add crushed red pepper flakes right before serving — it adds just the right kick.
- Dietary Modifications: For a lighter twist, try turkey bacon or skip the bacon and use smoked paprika with a dash of liquid smoke.
- Seasonal Changes: Swap yellow onion for shallots or add chopped carrots for a hint of sweetness and color.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Slow Cooker Cabbage with Bacon Recipe
Step 1: Sizzle the Bacon and Onion
First up, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the chopped bacon. Cook it until it’s crisp and the fat has rendered nicely—that’s where all the flavor lives! Add the diced onion to the pan as the bacon starts to brown, and cook together until the onions are soft and lightly caramelized. Don’t rush this step—those golden edges add a sweetness that perfectly balances the salty bacon.
Step 2: Prep the Cabbage
While the bacon and onions are cooking, slice off the stem end of the cabbage, cut it in half, and then remove the core. Then cut each half into large pieces about 1.5 to 2 inches wide. I like to keep the pieces chunky because they hold up well in the slow cooker and have a great texture once cooked through.
Step 3: Layer It All in the Slow Cooker
Drop the cabbage chunks into your slow cooker, then spoon over the crispy bacon and onions along with any rendered bacon grease left in the pan. That bacon grease is pure gold here—it’s what helps the cabbage cook tender with amazing flavor.
Step 4: Add the Flavor Boost
Whisk together the stone ground mustard, chicken bone broth, smoked paprika, and jarred minced garlic in a small bowl. Pour this mixture evenly over the cabbage and bacon in the slow cooker. The mustard adds a nice tang, while the broth and paprika give it that rich, deep flavor.
Step 5: Slow Cook Until Tender
Cover the slow cooker and set it to high for 2 to 3 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the cabbage is tender yet still holds some structure—not mushy. I check it around 2 hours just to be safe, but timing can vary slightly depending on your slow cooker.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Before serving, season with salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste. I like to add a little extra pepper here—it wakes up the flavors nicely. Give it a good stir and dig in!
Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Cabbage with Bacon Recipe
- Don’t Skip the Bacon Render: Cooking bacon first and saving the grease adds unbeatable flavor and prevents sogginess.
- Cut Cabbage Large: Large chunks hold texture better during slow cooking and look more appealing on the plate.
- Use Bone Broth: Broth adds a depth of flavor you’d miss with plain water—worth the extra step!
- Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on it at the 2-hour mark to prevent the cabbage from turning mushy.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Cabbage with Bacon Recipe
Garnishes
I usually sprinkle a bit of fresh chopped parsley or green onions on top to add a touch of color and freshness. Sometimes, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving brightens everything up beautifully. If I’m feeling bold, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes gives it a nice spicy kick.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple roasted potatoes or crusty bread to soak up those tasty juices. I’ve also enjoyed it alongside smoked sausages or grilled chicken for a hearty meal. It’s such a versatile side that fits perfectly with so many mains.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, I’ve served this Slow Cooker Cabbage with Bacon Recipe in rustic mini cast iron skillets which keeps it warm and looks charming on the table. Another fun idea is layering it as a bed under seared pork chops for a crowd-pleasing presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge where they keep beautifully for about 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, but the cabbage stays tender without getting mushy if you eat it within a few days.
Freezing
I don’t recommend freezing this dish since cabbage tends to change texture and get watery after thawing. If you want to prep ahead, I’d suggest cooking it fresh or just prepping the ingredients and assembling it in the slow cooker on the day.
Reheating
To reheat, microwave leftovers on low power in short bursts, stirring in between to avoid overcooking any one spot. You can also gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth to refresh the moisture.
FAQs
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Can I use a different cut of bacon or substitute it?
Absolutely! Thick-cut bacon works best for its texture and flavor, but you can use regular bacon or even turkey bacon if you want a leaner option. Just keep in mind that turkey bacon renders less fat, so you might want to supplement with a bit of olive oil or butter to get that rich flavor.
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How long should I cook the cabbage in the slow cooker?
Cook on high for about 2 to 3 hours. You want the cabbage tender but not mushy, so I recommend checking at the 2-hour mark—slow cookers can vary quite a bit in temperature.
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Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Chopped carrots, bell peppers, or even sliced potatoes can add color and texture. Just make sure any added veggies cook in roughly the same timeframe or pre-cook them if needed.
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Is it possible to make this recipe on the stove or in the oven?
You can, but it’s a bit more hands-on. I like it best in the slow cooker for set-it-and-forget-it convenience. On the stove, you’d simmer it gently with broth and bacon fat, watching closely. In the oven, roasting cabbage chunks tossed with rendered bacon and seasonings can be delicious but yields a different texture.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Cabbage with Bacon Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Every time I make it, I’m reminded how such simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. I promise once you try it, this recipe will become your easy weeknight favorite or a reliable crowd-pleaser to whip out for company. So go ahead, start that slow cooker, and enjoy the magic of cabbage and bacon done just right. You won’t regret it!
Print
Slow Cooker Cabbage with Bacon Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A flavorful Slow Cooker Cabbage with Bacon recipe that combines tender cabbage, crispy bacon, and a tangy mustard sauce, perfect for a comforting and easy side dish prepared with minimal hands-on time.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 oz bacon
- 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
- 1 head cabbage
- 2 teaspoons jarred minced garlic
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons stone ground mustard
- 1/4 cup chicken bone broth
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook bacon and onion: Preheat a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped bacon and diced onion, cooking until the bacon is crispy and the onions are lightly browned.
- Prepare the cabbage: Slice off the cabbage stem and cut the cabbage in half. Remove the core and then cut each cabbage half into large pieces about 1 1/2 to 2 inches each.
- Assemble in slow cooker: Place the chopped cabbage in the slow cooker. Top with the cooked bacon, onions, and all the bacon grease from the skillet to add extra flavor.
- Mix and pour sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the stone ground mustard, chicken bone broth, smoked paprika, and jarred minced garlic. Pour this mixture evenly over the cabbage in the slow cooker.
- Slow cook: Cover and cook on high for 3 hours until the cabbage is tender and flavored.
- Season and serve: Before serving, season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix gently and serve warm.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days; freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.
- Reheat gently on a low-power microwave setting to preserve the quality.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
