Fried Cabbage And Macaroni
A flavorful Southern-inspired dish combining tender sautéed cabbage and macaroni, seasoned with caraway and pimiento for a comforting and versatile side or main dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cabbage and salt and let stand for 30 minutes; squeeze by hand to drain off moisture.
- Cook macaroni in boiling salted water for 10 to 12 minutes, or until tender.
- Drain the macaroni; rinse with cold water and drain again.
- Combine butter or margarine, sugar, pepper, caraway seed, cabbage, and macaroni in a large skillet.
- Cook slowly, stirring frequently, until lightly browned.
- Add pimiento and cook for an additional minute before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding cooked bacon or sausage for a meaty twist. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, feel free to swap the butter for olive oil and omit any meat. Adding a splash of vinegar can also brighten the dish. For an extra crunch, toss in some toasted breadcrumbs on top before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or some crusty bread. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish. If you're looking for more comfort food options, consider browsing other American recipes like Viv's Dump Cake for dessert or a refreshing Heavenly Hot Chocolate to warm up your evening.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Fried Cabbage and Macaroni can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fried Cabbage And Macaroni contains roughly 106 calories, with 7g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (114% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (68% of the Daily Value), and potassium (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2200mg per serving (96% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can substitute it with any small pasta shape like shells or penne. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type to achieve the perfect al dente texture.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, Fried Cabbage and Macaroni is great for meal prep! It holds up well in the fridge and flavors deepen over time. Just make sure to reheat it gently to avoid overcooking the cabbage.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. You can also sauté some sliced jalapeños with the cabbage for a fresh kick, making it a deliciously spicy variation.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).