Cabbage and Noodles with Bacon (Haluski)

This humble dish of cabbage and noodles, also known as Haluski, is a timeless comfort food rooted in Eastern European tradition. It’s one of those old-school meals that reminds you of cozy kitchens, family dinners, and the warmth of simpler times. With its buttery noodles, tender caramelized cabbage, and crispy bits of bacon, it’s no surprise this dish has been passed down through generations.

What makes Haluski truly special is how it transforms just a few basic ingredients into something deeply satisfying. The cabbage becomes sweet and golden as it cooks down with the onions in bacon fat, and the noodles soak up all that rich flavor. Butter adds another layer of indulgence, while the bacon brings in the perfect salty, smoky bite to round it all out.

This dish is incredibly versatile, whether you’re serving it as a hearty side or letting it shine as the main course. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but nostalgic enough to serve on special occasions when you want something that feels like home. And if you grew up with it, there’s a good chance the smell of cabbage frying in bacon grease brings back some delicious memories.

Simple, rustic, and full of love, Cabbage and Noodles with Bacon is proof that comfort doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re making it for the first time or the hundredth, this classic never goes out of style.

Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 12 oz egg noodles
• 3 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: garlic powder, chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
3. Add the sliced onion and chopped cabbage to the skillet with the bacon grease. Sauté for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is soft, caramelized, and golden brown.
4. Add butter to the pan and let it melt into the cabbage mixture.
5. Stir in the cooked egg noodles and reserved bacon. Mix until everything is well combined and heated through.
6. Season generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder if using.
7. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley for a fresh touch if desired.

Variations:

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the bacon and sauté the cabbage in butter or olive oil. Add mushrooms for extra umami.
• Add Protein: Stir in cooked sausage, kielbasa, or even diced ham for a heartier version.
• Spice It Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a subtle kick.
• Noodle Swap: Use kluski noodles or wide egg noodles depending on your texture preference.

Tips:

• Cut the cabbage into fairly uniform pieces so it cooks evenly.
• For extra flavor, deglaze the skillet with a splash of broth or white wine after the cabbage starts to brown.
• Make it ahead—this dish reheats beautifully and the flavors deepen with time.
• Don’t skimp on the seasoning; cabbage can be bland without a generous pinch of salt and pepper.
• Use a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven to give the cabbage room to caramelize properly.