Southern Green Beans with Bacon
Why Make This Recipe
Southern Green Beans with Bacon is a classic dish that brings comfort and flavor to any meal. The crispy bacon adds a rich taste that complements the fresh green beans perfectly. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it a great side dish for family dinners or gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that everyone will love.
How to Make Southern Green Beans with Bacon
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh green beans
- 4 slices of bacon
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
Directions:
- Clean and trim the green beans.
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the green beans and chicken broth to the skillet.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for about 15-20 minutes until beans are tender.
- Crumble the bacon and add it back to the skillet.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- If desired, drizzle with olive oil before serving.
How to Serve Southern Green Beans with Bacon
Serve Southern Green Beans with Bacon warm as a side dish. This dish pairs nicely with roasted chicken, grilled meats, or any hearty main course. For a complete meal, consider adding rice or mashed potatoes on the side.
How to Store Southern Green Beans with Bacon
To store leftover green beans, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Southern Green Beans with Bacon
- Use fresh green beans for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the amount of bacon based on your preference for smokiness.
- For extra flavor, consider adding some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Variation
You can enhance the flavor of this dish by adding sautéed mushrooms or diced tomatoes. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and use olive oil to sauté the onions and garlic.
FAQs
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans, but adjust the cooking time as needed since they may take less time to cook.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
You can reduce the amount of bacon or use a turkey bacon substitute to make it a bit healthier. Additionally, using low-sodium chicken broth can lower the sodium content.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving to enjoy it warm.
Southern Green Beans with Bacon
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Omnivore
Description
A classic side dish featuring fresh green beans cooked with crispy bacon and savory seasonings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh green beans
- 4 slices of bacon
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
Instructions
- Clean and trim the green beans.
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the green beans and chicken broth to the skillet.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for about 15-20 minutes until beans are tender.
- Crumble the bacon and add it back to the skillet.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- If desired, drizzle with olive oil before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or diced tomatoes. Adjust the amount of bacon based on your preference for smokiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Southern
