Slow Cooker Stewed Cabbage and Tomatoes with Bacon Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a deeper flavor, you can crisp the bacon in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker, though this is optional. If you choose this route, be sure to drain some of the excess fat if you prefer a less greasy final dish. Adding the bacon raw is the simplest method and still provides excellent flavor as the fat renders slowly.

If you find the dish has too much liquid at the end of the cooking process, you can remove the lid for the final 20 minutes of cooking.

This allows some of the moisture to evaporate, concentrating the tomato and bacon flavors. Always perform this check after the cabbage is already tender to avoid overcooking the vegetables while trying to reduce the sauce.

Variations

• Spicy Cabbage: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes along with the garlic powder to introduce a subtle heat that complements the savory bacon and tangy tomatoes perfectly.
• Herb-Infused Cabbage: Stir in a tablespoon of dried thyme or oregano before cooking. These earthy herbs enhance the flavor profile and pair wonderfully with the stewed tomatoes and cabbage.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheat

Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave until thoroughly heated through.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors often develop further after sitting for a day, making this an excellent dish to prepare in advance.

Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness and prevent the bacon aroma from permeating other items in your refrigerator. Consume within three to four days for the best quality.

This dish is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare the ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before and store it in the refrigerator, then simply place it in the base and start the cooking process in the morning.

This saves significant time on busy days and allows you to have a warm, ready-to-eat side dish by the time you are ready for dinner.

Serving ideas

Serve this dish hot as a side to roasted chicken, pork chops, or even simple sausages. It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or crusty bread, which can be used to soak up the flavorful tomato juices.

The mild, savory profile makes it a versatile addition to many different meal combinations, especially during cooler months when warm, stewed vegetables are particularly satisfying.

Consider topping each serving with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, if you have them on hand. While not strictly necessary, a touch of green adds a bright visual contrast to the dish. The combination of tender cabbage, savory bacon, and acidic tomatoes creates a balanced bite that works well alongside both light and heavy main courses.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Stewed Cabbage and Tomatoes with Bacon

Prep 10 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 15 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 1 head green cabbage, chopped
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp granulated sugar
• 15 oz can stewed tomatoes with juice

Instructions

1. Place the chopped cabbage into the slow cooker insert. Scatter the chopped raw bacon and diced onion over the cabbage. Sprinkle the garlic powder and sugar evenly over the mixture to ensure balanced seasoning throughout the dish.
2. Pour the stewed tomatoes, including all the juices, over the cabbage and bacon mixture. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 4 hours until the cabbage is tender and the bacon is fully cooked.
3. Before serving, verify the bacon is cooked through. Stir the mixture gently to incorporate the tomato juices into the cabbage. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

180

Protein

8.5 g

Carbohydrates

12 g

Fat

11 g

Fiber

4 g

Sugar

6 g

Sodium

450 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.