Slow Cooker Braised Cabbage and Bacon

 This Slow Cooker Braised Cabbage and Bacon is the ultimate cozy comfort dish—tender, melt-in-your-mouth cabbage slowly cooked with smoky, savory bacon for a rich and flavorful side or main. Easy to prepare and packed with deep, hearty flavors, it’s perfect for busy days when you want something warm, satisfying, and effortless.

Ingredients

1 medium green cabbage about 1–1.2 kg, chopped into large pieces

200 g bacon cut into small strips

1 medium onion thinly sliced

3 cloves garlic minced

1 cup 240 ml chicken broth

2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

1 tbsp Dijon mustard optional, for depth

1 tbsp brown sugar or honey

½ tsp salt adjust based on bacon saltiness

½ tsp black pepper

½ tsp smoked paprika optional

1 tbsp butter

How To Make Slow Cooker Braised Cabbage and Bacon

Cook the Bacon

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until lightly crisp.

Transfer to a plate, leaving a bit of fat in the pan.

Sauté Aromatics

In the same pan, add onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft.

Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Layer in Slow Cooker

Add cabbage to the slow cooker.

Top with cooked bacon, onions, and garlic.

Add Liquid & Seasoning

Pour in chicken broth and vinegar.

Add mustard, brown sugar, salt, pepper, and paprika.

Toss gently to combine.

Slow Cook

Cover and cook:

LOW for 6–7 hours, or

HIGH for 3–4 hours

Stir once or twice if possible.

Finish

Stir in butter just before serving.

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.