Fried Cabbage and Egg Noodles Recipe

Fried Cabbage and Egg Noodles Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 (16 ounce) package egg noodles
  • 1 stick butter
  • 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  1. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook until tender yet firm to the bite, about 5 minutes. Drain the noodles.
  2. In the meantime, melt butter in a large skillet over low heat. Add the chopped cabbage and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Cover the skillet and cook the cabbage until it begins to brown, approximately 5 to 7 minutes.
  4. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and continue to cook and stir until the noodles begin to brown, about 5 more minutes.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition Amount
Calories 690
Total Fat 28g
Saturated Fat 16g
Cholesterol 155mg
Sodium 228mg
Total Carbohydrate 93g
Dietary Fiber 9g
Total Sugars 9g
Protein 19g
Vitamin C 83mg
Calcium 137mg
Iron 6mg
Potassium 666mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Fried Cabbage and Egg Noodles

This Fried Cabbage and Egg Noodles recipe is a delicious and simple dish that combines the savory flavors of browned cabbage with egg noodles. It's a comforting meal that is often associated with European, particularly German, cuisine.

Origin and History

Fried cabbage and egg noodles is a dish rooted in Central and Eastern European culinary traditions, especially in Germany and Poland. Known as "Haluski" in some parts of the world, it has been a staple in the homes of farmers and working-class families for centuries. The dish was born out of the need for hearty, simple, and affordable meals using basic ingredients. Cabbage, being a versatile and inexpensive vegetable, was often paired with noodles or potatoes, which were readily available. The recipes simplicity and flavor made it a beloved comfort food across various regions.

Regional Variations

Different regions put their own spin on this dish, creating unique variations. In Germany, its common to add caraway seeds and sometimes bacon or sausage for extra flavor. In Poland, the dish may be served with sour cream or a sprinkling of cheese. Some variations also include adding onions and garlic for added depth of flavor, as seen in many modern versions of the recipe. In other parts of Eastern Europe, its common to see fried cabbage paired with dumplings or pierogis, offering a hearty twist on the traditional dish.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Fried cabbage and egg noodles stand out from similar dishes like "krautfleckerl" (Austrian cabbage and noodle dish) or "Haluski" (a Polish version of the dish). What sets it apart is its method of preparation: the cabbage is first browned in a generous amount of butter, which adds a rich, nutty flavor to the dish. Additionally, while similar dishes often feature bacon or sausage, this recipe keeps it simple, allowing the natural flavors of the cabbage and butter to shine through. The use of egg noodles also gives it a soft, tender texture that complements the crispy cabbage perfectly.

Where It's Typically Served

Fried cabbage and egg noodles is often served as a side dish or light meal in many households across Europe. Its a favorite comfort food during the colder months, providing warmth and satisfaction. In Germany and Poland, it is commonly found in local eateries and is often enjoyed as a main course or a hearty side dish to accompany meats such as sausages or schnitzels. Its also a popular dish for family gatherings and celebrations due to its ease of preparation and ability to feed a large number of people.

Interesting Facts

  • In Poland, the dish is often referred to as "Haluski," and some variations include adding cheese or even bits of bacon or ham.
  • Fried cabbage and egg noodles are known for being a "lazy" dish due to its simplicity, yet its packed with flavor, making it a go-to meal for busy families.
  • Because cabbage is a winter vegetable, this dish was historically made during the colder months when fresh produce was scarce. Its a great example of how humble ingredients were used creatively to provide nourishment during tough seasons.
  • Many modern adaptations of the recipe include various seasonings such as garlic, pepper, or even spicy mustard, giving it a contemporary twist while maintaining its classic roots.

Whether you're making it as a quick weeknight dinner or serving it as part of a larger spread, fried cabbage and egg noodles are sure to satisfy. Its rich history and regional variations make it a truly timeless dish that continues to bring people together around the table.

FAQ about Fried Cabbage and Egg Noodles Recipe

Leftover Fried Cabbage and Egg Noodles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet with a little butter or in the microwave until heated through.

Yes, you can freeze Fried Cabbage and Egg Noodles. Allow the dish to cool completely, then place it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet or microwave.

Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with other types of pasta such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or even gluten-free noodles. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.

Yes, this recipe can be made vegetarian. Simply use plant-based butter or olive oil instead of regular butter. You can also add extra vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or bell peppers to enhance the flavor.

To enhance the flavor, you can add ingredients such as sautéed onions, garlic, or smoked sausage. Some people like to add caraway seeds, fennel, or mustard for extra depth. For a spicy twist, try adding jalapeños or hot sauce.

Yes, you can use pre-shredded cabbage, which is a great time-saver. Just be sure to cook it until it gets nicely browned, as it will still need some time to develop flavor.

To add more protein, you can include ingredients such as cooked chicken, sausage, bacon, or even tofu. This can make the dish more filling and satisfying.

To prevent the cabbage from burning, cook it over medium heat and stir occasionally. If necessary, add a splash of water or broth to the pan to create some steam and help the cabbage cook evenly.

To brown the noodles, ensure that the skillet is hot enough and use enough butter to prevent sticking. Stir the noodles frequently so they cook evenly and achieve a golden-brown color without burning.

Yes, you can use red cabbage instead of green cabbage. Red cabbage will add a different color and slightly sweeter flavor, but the overall dish will still taste great.

Comments

Alisa Ann

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

This was delicious! I cut up an onion and two cloves of fresh garlic which I added to the cabbage and 1/2 stick of butter. When the noodles were done, I added a tablespoon of butter to the noodles before adding them to the cabbage mixture. I will make this again and maybe cut up a small ham steak to add a little meat to this dish. Thank you for the recipe!

FancyClove7403

08/12/2023 05:43:03 PM

This is called Haluski. I make it often, but instead of buying a head of cabbage, I buy a bag of precut cole slaw..... then I fry the cole slaw cabbage in tons of butter, and onions, and add cooked noodles.

Davidovic

03/31/2023 03:37:59 PM

Good basic recipe. For authentic German flavor add to cabbage while cooking 1/2 Tsp. each of Caraway and Fennel seeds plus 3 or 4 crushed Juniper berries. For even more depth cook egg noodles risotto-style with your favorite broth.

UniqueZest8606

03/01/2023 12:47:33 AM

We actually used spaghetti squash instead of noodles and we added onions with the fried cabbage. At the end, I added garlic powder as well as salt and pepper also. It was so delicious! We paired it with both vegetarian sausage and turkey sausage, with lots of Dijon mustard as well as hot and sweet mustard on the side. It tasted like sweet sauerkraut and was really good! We are going to make this again for sure!

EdgyCurd8693

08/02/2024 10:39:32 PM

I read several versions of this recipe and used thinly sliced onions, one whole stick of butter and a bag of preshredded cabbage in a big pot. The browning gives flavor and you need to stir often to keep the butter from burning. Add drained noodles when done and mix throughly. Real comfort food!!

sprinkles

03/29/2017 03:04:48 AM

We love cabbage and noodles in our house. This is a good recipe! My BaBa's recipe calls for frying onions in butter. I make mine a little bit different. I add one more thing .After the noodles are done and the butter starts to brown, I add the onions to the butter (you have to watch that the onions don't burn).I then crumble up an 10 ounce package of Queso Fresco Cheese or as much as you like(found in the Mexican section of a supermarket) in a deep bowl, pile on the hot,drained noodles, then the butter and onions and cabbage mix , then gently mix together. Makes a great meal! I sometimes sprinkle on some hot sauce before I eat mine but it isn't necessary. I do find that bow tie pasta works well when adding cheese.

Koboclio

02/09/2017 12:51:22 PM

The first time I made it I found it bland, but I decided to make it again and modify the recipe. So I added thinly sliced onions and grated carrots to the cabbage. I sautéed the veggies with caraway seed for about 5 minutes in butter and then added about 1/4 C chicken stock, covered the pan and simmered for about 5 minutes. I removed the lid and raised the temperature to reduce the liquid and brown the veggies lightly. Then I added the noodles and some leftover Octoberfest sausages and sautéed until the sausages were heated through.

nishymitch89

07/02/2017 11:59:40 PM

I love cabbage , I sautéed a large onion with garlic and a lot of black pepper (I like it spicy) with a pinch of all spice & also added red peppers . Super easy to make, no fail. I finished in oven in my Dutch oven pan to get the browning to the noodle. Love it! I'm vegetarian, and ate this for dinner just like this.

Laura Chapman

04/02/2020 09:06:55 PM

This is something my great-grandmother made. Recently, my mother told me a "shortcut". Instead of cutting up a head of cabbage, use cole slaw mix (not the angel cut). Yes, it has carrots in it, but you don't even taste them. By the time the noodles are cooked, the cabbage is ready for the noodles!!

William J Dager

04/21/2024 12:00:39 PM

I like noodles in any dish, but I think this is better, more flavorful and more nutritious when you add sautéed onions, garlic, mushrooms or any other favorite vegetables. The onions are a must, though. You could also make it a meal by adding leftover rotisserie chicken, ground beef or any other protein of your choosing.

cynthialpockalny

08/31/2023 01:20:55 PM

We call this lazy pirogi because we add onion to the cabbage while sauteing and top the final dish with cottage cheese.

SillySquid7551

08/07/2025 11:44:13 PM

Excellent. I added a chopped onion and black pepper.

Chachi

07/22/2025 02:28:10 PM

Used packaged cole slaw mix. Added teriyaki and soy sauces, garlic and ginger powder. Very delicious!

SteadyMilk2061

07/20/2025 12:10:58 AM

I had to cook longer to brown everything at higher heat. I added minced garlic with cabbage. Added a lot of salt and pepper. Still bland. I topped it with Parmesan cheese which made it better.

Dogdoc

01/22/2025 09:48:34 PM

Easy and tasty. Cabbage is such an underappreciated vegetable. I added some onion, carrot and jalapeno pepper

Kevin Thompson

01/20/2025 01:47:32 AM

This is comfort food done right.

Misty

01/07/2025 11:22:45 AM

Haluski! We have been making this for generations. We always add onions and garlic. It is great as is or add any leftover veggie or meat you may have. It's really good with cottage cheese mix in too.

Fred Freed

10/02/2024 08:54:09 PM

ive been making this for years. I also add onion and smoked sausage cut in coins. my seasoning is salt and garlic pepper. at the end I add grated cheese

Tammy

05/22/2024 06:46:35 PM

I love it . I added sliced onion & bacon. I used the bacon grease for part of the butter. Yummmm!

leoscooter17

03/16/2024 11:38:12 PM

I thought this was just a concoction my mom made up when I was a kid, but then I Googgled and your recipe was the 1st one to pop up.