Hearty, Smoky & Old-Fashioned Comfort in Every Bowl
If you’re looking for a warm, satisfying meal that’s simple to make and full of rustic flavor, this Cabbage and Bacon Stew is the perfect recipe. Tender cabbage, smoky bacon, hearty potatoes, and savory vegetables simmer together in a flavorful broth to create a comforting stew that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
Made with wholesome, everyday ingredients, this old-fashioned dish is budget-friendly, filling, and sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, smoky bacon flavor
- Hearty and filling
- Budget-friendly ingredients
- Easy one-pot meal
- Perfect for meal prep
- Great for cold-weather comfort
Ingredients
For the Stew
- 8 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small head green cabbage, chopped
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Additions
- 1 cup cooked smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh parsley
- Chopped green onions
- Cracked black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the bacon
In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy.
Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot.
Step 2: Sauté the vegetables
Add the onion and carrots to the pot.
Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened.
Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Step 3: Build the stew
Add the chopped cabbage and cook for 3–4 minutes until it begins to soften.
Stir in the potatoes, smoked paprika, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper.
Pour in the chicken broth and water.
If using tomato paste or Worcestershire sauce, stir them in now.
Step 4: Simmer
Bring the stew to a gentle boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30–40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cabbage is soft.
If using smoked sausage, add it during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Step 5: Finish the stew
Return the crispy bacon to the pot and stir well.
Remove the bay leaf.
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 6: Serve
Ladle the stew into bowls.
Garnish with fresh parsley, green onions, or cracked black pepper if desired.
Serve hot.
Tips for Perfect Cabbage and Bacon Stew
- Cook the bacon until crisp for the best smoky flavor.
- Yukon Gold potatoes hold their shape beautifully in stews.
- Don’t overcook the cabbage—it should be tender, not mushy.
- Add smoked sausage for an even heartier meal.
- The stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
Serving Suggestions
This comforting stew pairs perfectly with:
- Crusty bread
- Cornbread
- Buttermilk biscuits
- Garlic toast
- Simple green salad
- Pickles
It’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners, meal prep, or serving a hungry crowd.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container:
- Refrigerator: up to 4 days
- Freezer: up to 3 months
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until thoroughly heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use red cabbage?
Yes, although green cabbage is more traditional and has a milder flavor.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely. Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth. Add smoked paprika for a similar smoky flavor.
Can I use ham instead of bacon?
Yes. Diced smoked ham or leftover ham works wonderfully in this stew.
Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Yes. Cook the bacon first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on Low for 6–8 hours or High for 3–4 hours.
Final Thoughts
Cabbage and Bacon Stew is a timeless comfort food that’s simple, hearty, and packed with smoky, savory flavor. Tender cabbage, creamy potatoes, and crispy bacon come together in a rich broth to create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of year.
Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a cozy meal to warm up on a cold day, this old-fashioned stew is sure to become a regular on your table.
