Nostalgic Fried Cabbage and Potatoes

Save this recipe on:

There’s something incredibly comforting about a big skillet of fried cabbage and potatoes sizzling on the stove. It smells like home, tastes like Sunday dinner at Grandma’s, and feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. This humble dish is packed with flavor, uses simple ingredients, and cooks up in one pan, making it as practical as it is nostalgic.

Fried cabbage and potatoes is a Southern favorite with deep roots. Whether you had it alongside cornbread and beans or as a main dish during leaner times, it likely holds a spot in your childhood memories. The cabbage turns tender and sweet while the potatoes get golden and crispy around the edges. Add a little onion and smoked sausage or bacon, and suddenly you have a full meal that everyone will dive into.

Why You’ll Love This Fried Cabbage and Potatoes

This dish brings together the perfect balance of hearty and healthy. It’s naturally gluten-free, budget-friendly, and endlessly customizable. It works as a main or a side, and you can dress it up with whatever meat or spices you love. Best of all, it takes just one skillet, which means fewer dishes and faster cleanup. It’s an ideal meal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend lunch.

Can I Use Red or Russet Potatoes for This?

Absolutely! Yukon Golds are my go-to because they hold their shape well and get beautifully crispy, but red potatoes or Russets will also do just fine. Just remember that Russets are starchier, so you may want to soak or rinse them first to reduce sticking. Red potatoes have a smooth, waxy texture that fries up nicely, and they don’t require peeling, which makes prep even faster.

Ingredients for the Nostalgic Fried Cabbage and Potatoes

The ingredients are as classic and simple as the dish itself, but each one plays a key role in bringing that familiar flavor and texture.

• Cabbage: The star of the show. It cooks down into tender ribbons with sweet, caramelized edges.
• Potatoes: Golden and crispy, they add a hearty bite that balances the softness of the cabbage.
• Onion: Adds depth and a bit of natural sweetness.
• Garlic: Brings aromatic flavor that enhances everything else.
• Butter or Bacon Grease: For rich flavor and to help the veggies brown.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasoning to wake everything up.
• Smoked Sausage or Bacon (optional): Turns it into a full meal with smoky, savory notes.

How To Make the Nostalgic Fried Cabbage and Potatoes

Step 1: Start with the Potatoes

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt butter or warm bacon grease. Add diced potatoes in a single layer and let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes until they begin to crisp. Stir occasionally and cook for about 10 minutes or until golden.

Step 2: Add the Onion and Garlic

Once potatoes are about halfway cooked, stir in the chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook for another 5 minutes until the onions soften and begin to brown.

Step 3: Stir in the Cabbage

Add shredded cabbage to the skillet. If needed, do it in batches so it can wilt down. Stir occasionally and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 10-12 minutes until the cabbage is tender and lightly browned.

Step 4: Add Sausage or Bacon (Optional)

If using sausage or bacon, add it to the pan once the cabbage has started to soften. Let everything cook together until the meat is heated through and flavors meld.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Give everything a final toss, taste for seasoning, and serve warm straight from the skillet.

How to Serve and Store Fried Cabbage and Potatoes

This recipe feeds about 4 hungry people, or more if you’re serving it as a side. It’s best served hot, but leftovers are incredibly tasty too. To store, let it cool fully, then transfer to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet to regain a bit of that crisp texture.

If you want to freeze it, portion into freezer-safe bags and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

What to Serve With Fried Cabbage and Potatoes?

Smoked Sausage or Kielbasa

Slice and brown it in the same skillet for a one-pan meal that’s smoky and satisfying.

Cornbread

Soft and crumbly cornbread is the perfect partner for soaking up all the flavor in this dish.

Fried Eggs

Top your plate with a runny fried egg for a breakfast-for-dinner twist.

Pork Chops

A hearty Southern dinner with pork chops and this cabbage-potato combo is comfort food at its finest.

Apple Sauce

A side of applesauce adds a sweet note that complements the savory flavors beautifully.

Collard Greens

Double down on Southern favorites with collard greens simmered low and slow.

Pickles or Pickled Beets

A little acidity from pickles cuts through the richness and freshens up each bite.

Want More Comforting Side Dish Ideas?

If this nostalgic dish warms your heart, you’ll probably love these other comforting and cozy options:

• Try the Cheesy Brussels Sprout Bake for a creamy, bubbling alternative.
• Craving something meaty and hearty? Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce never disappoints.
• Keep it Southern with Southern Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers.
• For a veggie-packed option, check out the Creamy Broccoli Pasta.
• Love classic comfort food? Best Chicken and Rice Casserole is a weeknight staple.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can always come back to it when the craving hits.

Did you grow up eating this? What do you like to add to make it your own? Maybe a sprinkle of cayenne, a dash of vinegar, or your favorite sausage?

I love hearing how others make these dishes part of their family traditions. Share your tweaks and tips in the comments.

Explore beautifully curated comfort food classics on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and find your next go-to dish to share with the people you love.

Print

Save this recipe on: