Name: Quick & Easy Southern Bacon And Green Beans Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and washed (or frozen, if necessary); 6-8 slices thick-cut bacon; 1 small onion, finely diced; 2-3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; Salt and pepper, to taste; Optional: Crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika

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When it comes to Southern cuisine, simplicity and flavor are key. This Quick & Easy Southern Bacon and Green Beans recipe is a perfect example of just that—savory, wholesome, and ready in under 30 minutes! Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just looking for a side dish that will please a crowd, this Southern favorite is sure to be a hit. Packed with smoky bacon, tender green beans, and a few simple ingredients, this dish is the epitome of comfort food. Follow this guide to discover how you can easily make this Southern staple in your own kitchen!

What Are “Southern Bacon and Green Beans”?

Southern Bacon and Green Beans is a classic side dish that has stood the test of time in Southern homes. This dish combines crispy, flavorful bacon with tender green beans, creating a wonderful blend of savory, salty, and slightly smoky flavors. It's a popular dish at family gatherings, potlucks, or holiday dinners. The simplicity of the recipe, paired with its bold taste, makes it a go-to side for busy weeknights as well.

Ingredients List for Southern Bacon and Green Beans

Before you get started, here’s what you’ll need for this recipe. These basic ingredients are easy to find at any grocery store and may already be in your kitchen pantry.

Fresh Green Beans: About 1 lb of fresh green beans, trimmed and washed. You can use frozen if fresh isn’t available, but fresh green beans provide the best texture and flavor.
Bacon: 6-8 slices of thick-cut bacon. The bacon is the key ingredient that infuses the green beans with a delicious, smoky flavor.
Onion: 1 small onion, finely diced. This adds depth and sweetness to the dish.
Garlic: 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced. Garlic brings a wonderful aroma and subtle flavor to the recipe.
Chicken Broth: 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth. This helps to cook the green beans and adds a bit of extra flavor.
Salt and Pepper: To taste. Adjust based on how salty your bacon is.
Optional Seasonings: Crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat or smoked paprika to enhance the smokiness.

Substitutions and Variations

While this dish is already quite simple, there are several ways you can modify it to suit your tastes or dietary preferences:

Turkey Bacon: For a healthier option, you can substitute pork bacon with turkey bacon. Keep in mind that turkey bacon may not render as much fat as regular bacon, so you might need to add a little bit of olive oil for sautéing.
Vegetarian Version: To make a vegetarian version, skip the bacon and use a little olive oil or butter to sauté the onions and garlic. You can also use smoked paprika to give it that smoky flavor that bacon usually provides.
Green Beans: If fresh green beans aren’t available, frozen green beans work as a quick substitute. Just make sure to thaw them beforehand and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
Extra Vegetables: You can add extra veggies such as diced bell peppers or mushrooms to give the dish more texture and flavor.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes if you like a spicy kick.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure your Southern Bacon and Green Beans turn out perfectly every time.

Prepare the Green Beans: Begin by trimming the ends of your green beans and washing them thoroughly. If you’re using frozen green beans, thaw them and pat them dry.
Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the bacon slices over medium heat until they are crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the pan and place it on a paper towel to drain. Do not discard the bacon grease!
Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet with the bacon grease, add the diced onions. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning the garlic.
Add the Green Beans: Once the onions and garlic are fragrant, add the green beans to the skillet. Stir them to coat the beans in the bacon grease and onion mixture.
Pour in the Chicken Broth: Add the chicken broth to the skillet and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the skillet and cook the green beans for about 10-12 minutes, or until they reach your desired tenderness.
Crumble the Bacon: While the green beans are cooking, crumble the crispy bacon into small pieces.
Combine Everything: Once the green beans are tender, uncover the skillet and let any excess liquid evaporate. Toss in the crumbled bacon and stir to combine. Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Your Southern Bacon and Green Beans are now ready to serve. Enjoy!

How to Cook Southern Bacon and Green Beans: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a condensed version of the steps you need to follow to cook this dish:

Trim and wash the green beans.
Fry the bacon until crispy.
Sauté onions and garlic in the bacon grease.
Add green beans and chicken broth, simmer until tender.
Crumble bacon and combine with the green beans.
Season and serve.

This recipe is as straightforward as it gets, but don't let that fool you—the results are flavorful and impressive.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Using Enough Bacon Grease: Don’t skimp on the bacon grease! This is what gives the dish its rich flavor. If you’ve used lean bacon, add a little extra oil or butter.
Overcooking the Green Beans: It’s important not to overcook the green beans as they can become mushy. Aim for a tender but still slightly firm texture, also known as "al dente."
Not Drying Green Beans Thoroughly: If you’re using frozen green beans, be sure to thaw and dry them properly. Excess water can dilute the flavor and make the dish soggy.
Under-seasoning: Bacon is salty, but you may still need to add additional salt and pepper. Always taste your dish before serving and adjust the seasoning accordingly.

Serving and Presentation Tips

A beautifully cooked dish deserves a beautiful presentation. Here’s how you can serve your Southern Bacon and Green Beans for maximum impact.

How to Serve Southern Bacon and Green Beans

This dish pairs well with a variety of mains, making it a versatile side for any occasion:

With Roasted Meats: Serve it alongside roasted chicken, pork chops, or a juicy steak.
At Holiday Dinners: Southern Bacon and Green Beans make a great addition to your Thanksgiving or Christmas table.
As a BBQ Side: This dish goes wonderfully with grilled foods like BBQ ribs or pulled pork sandwiches.
Light Lunch: Enjoy it as a standalone dish for a light lunch or mix it with quinoa or rice for a heartier meal.

Presentation Ideas for Southern Bacon and Green Beans

Cast-Iron Skillet: Serve the green beans straight from the skillet for a rustic Southern feel.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme can brighten up the dish.
Family-Style Serving: Place the green beans in a large serving bowl with the crumbled bacon on top for a beautiful, family-style presentation.
Individual Portions: Serve the green beans in small bowls as part of a multi-course meal.

Southern Bacon and Green Beans Recipe Tips

Bacon Choices: Opt for thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor and texture.
Prep in Advance: You can trim and wash the green beans ahead of time, and even pre-cook the bacon to save time.
Add a Squeeze of Lemon: For a pop of brightness, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can elevate the flavors of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use canned green beans for this recipe?
A: Yes, but the texture may be softer compared to using fresh or frozen green beans. Be sure to drain and rinse canned beans before using them.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make it ahead of time and reheat it before serving. Just be careful not to overcook the beans when reheating to maintain their texture.

Q: How long do leftovers last?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.

Q: Can I freeze Southern Bacon and Green Beans?
A: Yes, you can freeze this dish, but the texture of the green beans may change slightly when thawed. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

Southern Bacon and Green Beans is a quick, easy, and flavorful side dish that embodies the essence of Southern cooking. With its smoky, savory flavors and simple ingredients, it’s a versatile recipe that can accompany many meals. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or whipping it up for a busy weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Don’t forget to customize it with your favorite variations and enjoy the rich flavors of this Southern classic!