Fried Cabbage and Onions Recipe
Introduction
Fried cabbage and onions is a simple, flavorful side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy this comforting and hearty dish in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients
- 3 tbsp butter (grassfed preferably)
- 1 white onion (diced)
- 1/4 cup garlic (whole or crushed cloves, skin off)
- 1 cabbage (use half if very large cabbage – whole head if small), sliced into thin strips
- 1 tsp salt (Celtic sea salt preferred)
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat butter in a large pan over medium-high heat until melted and foamy.
- Step 2: Add diced onions to the pan and cook until soft and transparent, about 4 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent sticking or burning.
- Step 3: Add garlic to the pan and cook until fragrant and soft, about 3 minutes.
- Step 4: Add the sliced cabbage to the pan and toss well to coat it evenly in butter.
- Step 5: Generously season with salt.
- Step 6: Let the cabbage reduce by half, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning and to cook evenly.
- Step 7: When the cabbage has lost much of its volume, turned shiny and slightly translucent, and has developed browned bits, it is ready to serve.
- Step 8: Remove from heat and plate alongside your favorite meat or main dish.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a pinch of chili flakes during cooking.
- Use bacon fat instead of butter for a smoky twist.
- Substitute green cabbage with Savoy or Napa cabbage for a different texture.
- To make it vegan, swap butter for olive oil or a plant-based margarine.
Storage
Store leftover fried cabbage and onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through to preserve texture and flavor.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use pre-shredded cabbage for this recipe?
Yes, pre-shredded cabbage works well and can save prep time. Just make sure to pat it dry if it seems wet to avoid sogginess.
How do I prevent the cabbage from becoming mushy?
Cook over medium-high heat and stir occasionally to allow evaporation of moisture, helping the cabbage retain a slight crunch and develop browned bits.
PrintFried Cabbage and Onions Recipe
A simple and delicious fried cabbage and onions recipe featuring tender cabbage cooked with fragrant garlic and sweet onions in rich butter, seasoned with salt for a perfect side dish that pairs beautifully with your favorite meat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 17 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp butter (grassfed preferably)
- 1 white onion, diced
- 1/4 cup garlic cloves (whole or crushed, skin removed)
- 1 cabbage (use half if very large, whole head if small), sliced into thin strips
- 1 tsp salt (Celtic sea salt preferred)
Instructions
- Heat Butter: Heat butter in a large pan over medium-high heat until melted and foamy to create a flavorful base for the vegetables.
- Cook Onions: Add diced onions to the pan and cook, stirring frequently, until they become soft and transparent, about 4 minutes, to release their natural sweetness.
- Add Garlic: Add the garlic cloves to the pan and cook until fragrant and soft, about 3 minutes, being careful not to burn them.
- Cook Cabbage: Add the sliced cabbage to the pan and toss well to coat all pieces in the melted butter, ensuring even cooking and flavor absorption.
- Season: Generously sprinkle the salt over the cabbage to enhance the natural flavors and balance sweetness.
- Reduce Cabbage: Let the cabbage cook down, stirring occasionally, until it reduces by about half, takes on a shiny and slightly translucent appearance, and develops some lovely browned bits, approximately 10 minutes.
- Finish and Serve: Once the cabbage is tender and caramelized, remove the pan from heat and plate the fried cabbage and onions alongside your favorite meat or main dish.
Notes
- Use grassfed butter for a richer flavor and creamer texture.
- Adjust salt to taste if using salted butter or other seasonings.
- Slicing the cabbage thinly ensures faster cooking and better texture.
- Stir occasionally to prevent burning and promote even browning.
- This dish pairs excellently with roasted or grilled meats.
Keywords: fried cabbage, sautéed cabbage and onions, buttered cabbage, side dish recipe, easy cabbage recipe, garlic cabbage

