Hearty & Flavorful Crockpot Cabbage with Bacon: Your Easiest Slow Cooker Meal Yet!

Are you searching for a deliciously simple, family-friendly meal that practically cooks itself? Look no further! This incredible Crockpot Cabbage recipe is an absolute game-changer for busy weeknights and relaxed weekends alike. It’s not just easy; it’s bursting with savory flavors, featuring tender cabbage, sweet caramelized onions, aromatic garlic, and the irresistible crunch of crispy bacon. As it slowly simmers to perfection, your kitchen will be filled with a mouth-watering aroma that promises a satisfying meal.

Forget standing over the stove for hours. Our slow cooker cabbage recipe offers minimal prep and maximum flavor, making it a staple in any home cook’s repertoire. Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a seasoned pro, you’ll appreciate how effortlessly this dish comes together, delivering a comforting and wholesome meal with very little fuss.

Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Slow Cooker Cabbage Recipe

This isn’t just another Crockpot dish; it’s a culinary hug in a bowl. Here’s why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your meal plan:

Unforgettable Flavor Profile

Prepare your taste buds for an explosion of savory goodness! Each bite of this slow cooker cabbage delights with the deep, smoky essence of bacon, perfectly complemented by the tender, slightly sweet notes of caramelized onions and the pungent warmth of fresh garlic. The cabbage itself cooks down to a silky tenderness, absorbing all the rich flavors of the broth and aromatics. It’s a harmonious blend that is both comforting and incredibly satisfying, proving that simple ingredients can create extraordinary taste.

Effortless Preparation and Cooking

The beauty of the slow cooker shines brightest with recipes like this. With just a few minutes of active prep, you can set it and forget it, letting your Crockpot do all the heavy lifting. The low and slow cooking method not only develops incredible depth of flavor but also ensures that cleanup is a breeze. No complicated steps, no constant stirring – just easy, hands-off cooking that fits seamlessly into even the busiest schedules. It’s the perfect solution for a hearty dinner without the stress.

Simple, Wholesome Ingredients

You won’t need a lengthy grocery list for this recipe. It calls for only a handful of common ingredients that are likely already in your pantry or easily found at any supermarket. This not only makes it budget-friendly but also a fantastic option for those evenings when you want something delicious and nutritious without a fuss. Green cabbage, savory bacon, sweet onion, fresh garlic, and chicken broth come together to create a wholesome meal that feels both indulgent and healthy.

What Exactly Is Crockpot Cabbage?

Crockpot cabbage, in essence, is a hearty, slow-cooked dish where fresh green cabbage is gently braised with flavorful ingredients until it reaches a wonderfully tender consistency. Our rendition elevates this classic by incorporating the rich, smoky notes of bacon, the sweetness of sautéed onions, and the aromatic depth of minced garlic, all simmered in a savory broth. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, transforming humble cabbage into a comforting side dish or a light main meal that’s packed with taste and nutrients.

The Wonderful Health Benefits of Cabbage

Beyond its delicious taste, cabbage is a nutritional powerhouse. This humble vegetable is incredibly low in calories but rich in essential vitamins and minerals, making it a fantastic addition to a balanced diet. It’s an excellent source of Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports immune health, and Vitamin K, crucial for blood clotting and bone health. Cabbage also provides a significant amount of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes gut health, and helps in maintaining a feeling of fullness, which can be beneficial for weight management.

Furthermore, cabbage contains various antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, including sulforaphane, which has been studied for its potential anti-cancer properties. Its high water content helps with hydration, and its versatility means it can be incorporated into countless healthy recipes. Enjoying this Crockpot Cabbage recipe is a delicious way to boost your intake of these vital nutrients, contributing to your overall well-being with every savory bite.

Expert Tips for Crafting Perfect Slow Cooker Cabbage

Even the simplest recipes benefit from a few insider tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your Crockpot Cabbage is absolutely perfect every time:

Achieve Bacon Perfection

The secret to truly delicious Crockpot Cabbage with bacon lies in the bacon itself. While the slow cooker is fantastic for tenderizing, it won’t crisp up raw bacon. Therefore, it’s crucial to **fully cook your bacon in a skillet before adding it to the Crockpot.** Sautéing it beforehand allows it to render its fat and develop that irresistible crispy texture and deep, smoky flavor. Once cooked, transfer the crispy bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease, but leave a bit of the rendered bacon fat in the skillet. This flavorful fat will be used to sauté your onions and garlic, infusing them with an extra layer of savory goodness.

Optimal Cabbage Selection and Preparation

Choose a fresh, firm head of green cabbage with vibrant, crisp leaves. Avoid any heads with wilting or discolored outer leaves. When preparing, wash the cabbage thoroughly, then remove the tough outer leaves and the core. Chop the cabbage into roughly 1-inch pieces. Consistency in size is key for even cooking. Don’t worry if your Crockpot looks completely full after adding the cabbage; it will cook down significantly as it softens.

Enhancing Flavor with Aromatics

The initial sauté of the onion and garlic in the bacon fat isn’t just a step; it’s a flavor foundation. Don’t skip this! Sautéing until the onions are translucent and slightly caramelized and the garlic is fragrant unlocks their full sweetness and pungency. This crucial step prevents them from tasting raw and adds a depth of flavor that would be missed if simply added directly to the slow cooker.

Customizing Your Broth

While chicken broth is recommended for its savory depth, you can absolutely customize your broth choice. Vegetable broth works wonderfully for a vegetarian version or if you prefer a lighter flavor. For an even richer, more complex taste, consider using beef broth. Ensure you use low-sodium broth if you are conscious about salt intake, as you’ll be seasoning to taste later.

Storage and Leftovers: Flavor That Gets Better

This Crockpot cabbage recipe is fantastic for meal prep! Leftovers can be **refrigerated for up to 5 days** when stored in an airtight container. In fact, many people find that the flavors deepen and meld even more beautifully after a day or two in the fridge, making it an excellent make-ahead dish. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. Freezing is also an option, though the texture of the cabbage might soften slightly upon thawing. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

Recipe: Irresistible Crockpot Cabbage with Bacon

This simple yet satisfying recipe brings together the humble cabbage with savory bacon and aromatic spices, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s unbelievably easy to make.

5 out of 5 stars (based on 1 vote)

Crockpot Cabbage

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

This Crockpot cabbage recipe is seriously so delicious, plus it’s ridiculously easy to make AND it smells amazing while it’s cooking.

Cheryl Malik

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Servings: 6

Ingredients

• ¼ cup diced bacon (approximately 6 slices, cooked crispy)
• 1 cup chopped white onion (approximately 1 large onion)
• 2 ½ tablespoons minced fresh garlic (approximately 5 large cloves)
• 4-5 cups chopped green cabbage (approximately 1 small head cabbage)
• 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• Salt to taste
• Freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Large plate
• Paper towels
• Slotted spoon
• Large wooden spoon
• Crockpot (slow cooker)

Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat on your stovetop. Once the pan is warm, add the diced bacon. Sauté the bacon, stirring occasionally, until it is thoroughly crispy and golden brown.
2. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked, crispy bacon onto a large plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease. Leave the rendered bacon fat in the skillet on the stovetop – this will be your base for sautéing the aromatics.
3. To the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the chopped white onion and minced fresh garlic. Stir well to coat the aromatics in the flavorful fat. Sauté for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and soft, and the garlic is fragrant.
4. While the onions and garlic are sautéing, begin layering your Crockpot. Add the 4-5 cups of chopped green cabbage to the slow cooker. Don’t worry if it looks very full; it will cook down significantly.
5. Once the onions are translucent and fragrant, carefully transfer the sautéed onion and garlic mixture from the skillet into the Crockpot, on top of the cabbage. Add the reserved crispy bacon to the Crockpot as well.
6. Pour in the 2 cups of chicken broth over all the ingredients. Using a large wooden spoon, stir all the ingredients together gently until they are well combined.
7. Secure the lid on your Crockpot. Set the slow cooker to the HIGH setting and cook for 2 hours. After about 1 ½ hours, begin checking the cabbage regularly. Continue cooking until the cabbage is wonderfully tender to your liking.
8. Once the cabbage has reached its desired tenderness, remove the lid. Taste the dish and season generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Adjust seasonings as needed.
9. Divide the flavorful Crockpot cabbage into your preferred portion sizes and serve warm. It makes a fantastic main course or a hearty side dish.

Notes

• Leftovers: Store any leftover Crockpot cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors often improve with time!
• Make Ahead: This dish is excellent for meal prepping. Prepare it on Sunday and enjoy delicious, ready-to-eat meals throughout the week.

Nutrition Information

Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 73kcal | Protein: 3g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Total Carbs: 7g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Net Carbs: 5g | Vitamin C: 20mg | Cholesterol: 8mg | Sodium: 366mg | Potassium: 165mg | Calcium: 34mg | Iron: 0.4mg

Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.

Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.

To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.

© Author: Cheryl Malik

Serving Suggestions for Your Crockpot Cabbage

This versatile Crockpot Cabbage with Bacon can be served in many delightful ways. It’s hearty enough to be a standalone light meal, especially if you increase the protein, but truly shines as a side dish.

• Classic Comfort: Serve it alongside roasted chicken, pork chops, or beef brisket for a truly satisfying and wholesome meal.
• Southern Style: Pair it with cornbread and black-eyed peas for a delicious Southern-inspired spread.
• Potato Perfection: It’s an ideal companion for mashed potatoes, baked potatoes, or even crispy roasted potatoes, allowing the cabbage to soak up their starchy goodness.
• Rice Dish: Serve over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice to create a more complete and filling meal, where the rice absorbs all the flavorful broth.
• Low-Carb Option: For a low-carb meal, enjoy it as is, or with a side of cauliflower rice or a simple green salad.

Delicious Variations to Customize Your Slow Cooker Cabbage

While this recipe is perfect as written, it’s also wonderfully adaptable! Feel free to experiment with these variations to suit your taste or what you have on hand:

• Spice it Up: For a kick of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic and onions, or a dash of hot sauce just before serving. A sprinkle of smoked paprika can also add a delightful warmth and depth.
• Add More Protein: Beyond bacon, consider adding sliced smoked sausage, kielbasa, or even ground beef or turkey (browned first) to make it an even heartier one-pot meal. You could also stir in shredded cooked chicken during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Vegetarian Option: Easily transform this into a vegetarian dish by omitting the bacon (or using a plant-based bacon alternative) and using vegetable broth. You can add smoked tofu or tempeh for a protein boost, or a handful of mushrooms for an umami kick.
• Creamy Indulgence: For a richer, creamier version, stir in a quarter cup of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
• Herbaceous Freshness: Fresh herbs like chopped parsley, dill, or thyme stirred in at the end can brighten the flavors beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Cabbage

Got questions? We’ve got answers to help you master this delightful Crockpot Cabbage recipe.

Can I use different types of cabbage?

Yes, while green cabbage is traditional and works best for its firm texture that holds up well during slow cooking, you could experiment with savoy cabbage. Red cabbage might bleed color into the dish, altering its appearance, but would still taste great. Avoid very delicate cabbages like Napa cabbage, as they might become too soft.

How do I prevent my cabbage from becoming too watery?

The amount of broth specified is typically sufficient to cook the cabbage without making it overly watery. Cabbage itself releases some water as it cooks. To avoid excess liquid, ensure you don’t add too much additional liquid beyond the recipe calls for. If your dish does seem too watery at the end, you can remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate, or even thicken it slightly with a cornstarch slurry if desired.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time for a party or gathering?

Absolutely! This Crockpot Cabbage recipe is an excellent make-ahead dish. As mentioned in our Chef’s Tips, the flavors often deepen and become even more robust after a day or two in the refrigerator. Simply prepare it fully, cool it completely, and store it in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the slow cooker on a low setting until warmed through before serving.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, Crockpot cabbage can be frozen. However, keep in mind that cabbage, like many vegetables, may soften further in texture after being frozen and thawed. To freeze, allow the cooked cabbage to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.

What if I don’t have a Crockpot? Can I make this on the stovetop or in the oven?

While designed for a Crockpot, you can adapt this recipe. On the stovetop, use a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot. Sauté the bacon and aromatics as instructed, then add the cabbage and broth. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook on low heat for 45-60 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender, stirring occasionally. For the oven, follow the stovetop prep, then transfer to an oven-safe Dutch oven, cover, and bake at 325°F (160°C) for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until tender.

More Delicious Slow Cooker Recipes You’ll Adore

If you loved the ease and flavor of this Crockpot Cabbage, be sure to explore more slow cooker wonders from our collection. They’re perfect for stress-free meal planning!

• Crockpot Chicken Fajitas
• Slow Cooker Carnitas (Pork Carnitas with Pork Loin or Tenderloin)
• Creamy Crockpot Potato Soup
• Slow Cooker Pinto Beans
• 3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Mexican Shredded Chicken
• Crockpot Chicken Wings
• Whole30 Crockpot Mashed Potatoes
• Crockpot Spinach Artichoke Dip
• Irresistible Jalapeño Corn Dip (Slow Cooker Recipe)
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