If you’re looking for a warm, cozy side dish (or even a light main dish), this Crockpot Cabbage with Bacon and Onions is about to become your new favorite! It’s buttery, smoky, and just melts in your mouth. Plus, it’s one of those dump-and-go recipes—perfect for busy families or when you just don’t feel like standing over the stove. Even kids who “don’t like cabbage” tend to love this one because, well, bacon makes everything better!
It’s hearty, simple, and made with just a handful of ingredients. My grandma used to make something similar on the stovetop, but I love the set-it-and-forget-it magic of the slow cooker. Your house will smell amazing while this cooks, and it’s ready to pair with anything from roasted chicken to mashed potatoes—or just enjoy it as is!
What You’ll Need
- 1 medium head of green cabbage (about 2-3 lbs), chopped
- 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
Pro Tips
- Don’t skip the broth! It adds moisture and keeps the cabbage from sticking or drying out.
- Pre-cook the bacon for extra crispiness. Toss it in a pan for a few minutes before adding it to the crockpot if you want that nice crunchy texture.
- Chop cabbage evenly. This helps it cook at the same rate and gives every bite that tender texture.
- Let kids help! They’ll love tearing the cabbage leaves apart with their hands.
- Taste and adjust seasoning at the end. Cabbage can vary in flavor, so you might need to tweak the salt or pepper once it’s cooked.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large knife and cutting board
- Crockpot (slow cooker)
- Medium skillet (if pre-cooking bacon)
- Measuring spoons and cup
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap bacon for turkey bacon, ham, or even diced smoked sausage for a different twist.
- Use red cabbage for a pop of color! It’ll cook the same way.
- Add carrots or diced potatoes for a heartier dish.
- For a vegetarian option, leave out the bacon and use extra butter or a little olive oil for richness.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Chop the cabbage and onion the night before and store them in the fridge in a sealed container. This makes assembly super quick in the morning.
- Pre-cook the bacon ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
How to Make Crockpot Cabbage with Bacon and Onions
1. Prep your ingredients
Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces, slice the onion, and chop the bacon into small chunks.
2. Layer the ingredients in the crockpot
Start with the cabbage, followed by the onions and bacon. Sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the top. Dot with butter cubes.
3. Pour in the broth
Drizzle the chicken or vegetable broth over the top to keep everything moist as it cooks.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours (or high for 3-4 hours)
Let it cook until the cabbage is tender and the bacon is cooked through. Stir everything together gently before serving.
5. Serve and enjoy!
Dish it up warm as a side or light main dish. Sprinkle extra bacon on top if you like!
Leftovers and Storage
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Microwave individual portions or warm it on the stovetop in a skillet.
- Freezer: Cabbage doesn’t freeze well—it tends to get mushy. Enjoy it fresh if possible!
Conclusion
This Crockpot Cabbage with Bacon and Onions is simple, delicious, and perfect for busy weeknights or holiday dinners. It’s a recipe that brings comfort to the table and fills the kitchen with irresistible smells. I can’t wait for you to try it—let me know how your family liked it in the comments below! Did you make any fun twists or add extra veggies? Let’s share tips and ideas! 😊
