Cabbage Pasta

It’s hard to keep people out of the kitchen when it’s filled with the aroma of smoky bacon. When combined with melting cabbage and pasta, you’ve got a soul-warming meal. In a complex world, who doesn’t crave the simplicity of comforting, nourishing food? This cabbage pasta is all about basic ingredients cooked with love. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together. So grab your skillet and make something deliciously simple and comforting tonight.

Ingredients for Cabbage Pasta

• Egg noodles: The noodles provide a tender and slightly chewy base for the dish, absorbing the flavors of the bacon and cabbage. Use your favorite packaged brand, or go all out and learn how to make egg noodles from scratch.
• Bacon: A classic accompaniment to cabbage, bacon lends a smoky, salty richness to the dish, and its drippings provide the fat needed to cook the cabbage.
• Cabbage: This hearty vegetable has a slightly sweet and earthy flavor, becoming tender and absorbing the bacon drippings during cooking.
• Salt and pepper: Salt enhances the overall flavor of the dish, ensuring the other ingredients taste their best. Bacon can be very salty, so taste as you go and only add more salt if needed. A bit of pepper adds a subtle heat and depth of flavor, balancing the richness of the bacon.

Directions

Step 1: Cook the noodles

Cook the egg noodles according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain them and set them aside.

Step 2: Cook the bacon

In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crisp. Using a slotted spoon, remove it to paper towels, then drain the skillet, leaving 3 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pan.

Step 3: Add the cabbage

Add the cabbage to the drippings in the skillet. Cover the skillet and cook on low for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender.

Step 4: Add the cooked noodles

Add the drained noodles to the cabbage. Stir in the cooked bacon, salt and pepper, then mix until well combined and heated through. Transfer to a serving dish and serve immediately.

Cabbage Pasta Variations

• Use different noodles: Swap the egg noodles for another pasta shape like spaghetti, fettuccine or even whole wheat pasta to change up the texture.
• Add vegetables: Mix in additional vegetables like carrots, bell peppers or peas for more color, flavor and texture.
• Make it creamy cabbage pasta: Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream to the skillet for a luxurious sauce.

How to Store Cabbage Pasta

Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. The dish will keep well for three to four days, making it perfect for quick lunches throughout the week.

Can you freeze cabbage pasta?

Yes, you can freeze cabbage pasta. To do so, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It will keep well in the freezer for two to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How do you reheat cabbage pasta?

To reheat cabbage pasta, you can use either the microwave or the stovetop. For the microwave, place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish, cover it loosely with a lid or microwave-safe wrap and heat on high for two to three minutes, stirring halfway through. On the stovetop, place the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent it from drying out.

Cabbage Pasta Tips

What are some good dishes to pair with cabbage pasta?

A fresh green salad adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich and savory pasta. Roasted vegetables complement the dish with their caramelized flavors. Consider serving a loaf of crusty bread or garlic bread on the side to soak up any juices.

What is the best type of cabbage to use in this cabbage pasta recipe?

This pasta with cabbage recipe is best with green cabbage. Its mildly sweet and slightly peppery flavor pairs well with the other ingredients, and it becomes tender when cooked without turning to mush. Green cabbage is also widely available and easy to work with, making it an ideal choice for this dish. If you prefer a slightly different texture and flavor, napa cabbage or savoy cabbage are also good alternatives.

Can I make cabbage pasta gluten-free?

Yes, you can make cabbage pasta gluten-free by using gluten-free noodles instead of traditional egg noodles. There are many gluten-free pasta options available, such as those made from rice, quinoa or corn. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package, as gluten-free pasta can have different cooking times and methods. This simple substitution allows you to enjoy all the delicious flavors of cabbage pasta while adhering to a gluten-free diet.