This Breakfast Cabbage Sauté is a yummy way to start your day! With crispy cabbage, eggs, and a sprinkle of seasoning, it’s both healthy and tasty.
Honestly, who knew cabbage could be so fun at breakfast? I love adding a bit of cheese on top for extra flavor. It’s a simple meal that keeps me going strong!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: Green cabbage is perfect for this dish as it cooks down well. If you have red cabbage, that can be a colorful alternative. Some folks like using Napa cabbage for its tender leaves.
Bacon: While bacon adds smoky flavor, you can skip it for a vegetarian option. Try adding a dash of liquid smoke or smoked paprika for a similar taste without meat.
Eggs: You can use any eggs you have on hand. Need a vegan alternative? Try silken tofu. Just crumble it and add it to the wells during the cooking process.
Onion and Garlic: These add flavor, but if you’re short on time, you could just use garlic powder or onion powder instead—about 1 teaspoon of each will do.
Garnish: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives not only make it pretty but add a burst of flavor. You could even use green onions or cilantro if that’s what you have!
How Do You Get the Eggs Just Right?
Cooking the eggs is the last step, and it’s super important for that perfect texture! Here’s how to do it well:
- Create small wells in the sautéed cabbage so the eggs sit nicely.
- Cover the skillet with a lid. This helps the steam cook the eggs evenly.
- Check the eggs after 3 minutes. If you like runny yolks, stop there! For firmer eggs, give it an extra 1-2 minutes.
Everyone has their own preference for egg doneness, so keep an eye on them and cook to what you enjoy!

Breakfast Cabbage Sauté
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 medium head of green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, diced (optional)
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 slices bacon, chopped (optional, for smoky flavor)
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika or chili powder (optional for spice)
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This breakfast recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes of cooking time, so you can have a delicious meal ready in about 30 minutes total. Perfect for a simple, wholesome breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get the Skillet Ready:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil or butter and let it heat up. If you’re using bacon, add it to the skillet now and cook until it’s nice and crispy. Once done, remove the bacon and set it aside, but make sure to keep the bacon fat in the pan for flavor!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Next, add the diced onion to your skillet. Sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn!
3. Add the Cabbage:
Now it’s time to add the sliced cabbage to the skillet. Season it with a bit of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook the cabbage for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want it to soften and get some nice brown edges. This will add so much flavor to your dish!
4. Incorporate the Bacon:
If you cooked bacon earlier, now’s the time to stir it back into the skillet with the cabbage. This adds that delicious smoky flavor throughout.
5. Cook the Eggs:
With the cabbage mixture ready, create three small wells in the cabbage using a spoon. Carefully crack one egg into each well. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the eggs are done to your liking. Keep an eye on them—if you like your yolks runny, check at 3 minutes!
6. Final Touches:
Once the eggs are cooked, sprinkle smoked paprika or chili powder over the top for a bit of flavor, along with some extra salt and pepper if you wish. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives to brighten it up.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Breakfast Cabbage Sauté warm, right from the skillet to the table. It’s a hearty, nutritious breakfast that will keep you energized for the day!
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious meal that wonderfully combines tender cabbage and perfectly cooked eggs, enhanced with herbs and spices! Bon appétit!
Can I Substitute the Cabbage?
Absolutely! If you don’t have green cabbage, you can use red cabbage or even Napa cabbage. Each type will offer a slightly different flavor and texture, but they will all work well in this recipe.
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water to keep the cabbage from drying out.
Can I Make This Vegetarian?
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This sauté pairs well with toast or a side of fresh fruit. If you want a heartier meal, serve it alongside hash browns or warm tortillas to round out your breakfast!
