Southern Green Beans with Bacon: A Taste of Tradition

Nothing brings to mind the essence of a cozy kitchen like the smell of Southern green beans with bacon gently simmering on the stove. As you chop the crisp green beans and hear the sizzle of bacon, you might find yourself transported to family gatherings where laughter and love filled the air. This beloved comfort food embodies warmth, nostalgia, and the simple pleasure of sharing a meal. So, gather around as we dive into this family recipe that is both easy to prepare and profoundly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Southern green beans with bacon are not just a side dish; they are a heartfelt connection to home-cooked meals that nourish both body and soul. Here are a few reasons why this recipe is a must-try:

Delicious Flavors: The savory depth of bacon beautifully complements the fresh, crisp texture of green beans, creating a perfect balance in every bite.
Easy to Prepare: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s Sunday dinner or a holiday celebration, these green beans will quickly become the star of any table.
Budget-Friendly: Delicious doesn’t have to mean expensive. This recipe uses affordable ingredients that you likely already have on hand.
Comforting: This dish wraps you in an embrace of warmth, making it a perfect option when you need a little extra love in your meal.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful Southern green beans with bacon:

1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed (or frozen for convenience)
4 slices of thick-cut bacon, chopped (feel free to swap turkey bacon for a healthier option)
1 medium onion, finely chopped (a sweet onion adds depth)
2 cloves garlic, minced (because who doesn’t love garlic?)
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for extra flavor)

Prep and Cook Time

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

This quick dinner idea means you can have a homemade meal on the table in half an hour, making it perfect for busy weekdays or last-minute gatherings.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until it’s nice and crispy. Don’t forget to save those delicious drippings – they’re part of the magic!
Sauté the Aromatics: Once the bacon is crispy, remove it from the pan (but keep the drippings). In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant; your kitchen will smell heavenly.
Add the Green Beans: Toss in the trimmed green beans, stirring well so they get coated with those incredible bacon drippings. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, allowing them to absorb all that aromatic flavor.
Pour in Broth: Add the chicken broth and give everything a good stir. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Simmer Until Tender: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want those beans tender but still with a bit of snap!
Finish with Bacon: Before serving, stir the crispy bacon back into the pan. Taste one last time for seasoning, and enjoy every warm, comforting bite!

Variations and Twists

Feel free to make this dish your own! Here are a few fun twists:

Add Nuts: For a delightful crunch, toss in some toasted almonds or pecans just before serving.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat that pairs beautifully with the savory beans.
Holiday Festivity: Integrate cranberries or pomegranate seeds to give a pop of color and sweetness, making this dish a festive treat for gatherings.
Regional Spin: Consider incorporating a splash of vinegar for a Southern twist or even adding a touch of mustard for a zingy variation.

Serving Suggestions

Southern green beans with bacon make a wonderful side dish for dried or grilled meats, earthy salads, or even a simple cornbread. They are equally at home on the dining table for a holiday feast, alongside turkey and stuffing, or casually served at a backyard barbecue. Imagine a table set with love, these green beans nestled next to roasted chicken, mashed potatoes, and that oh-so-indulgent dessert you’ve been dreaming of.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers? No problem! Allow the green beans to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little broth to prevent dryness. Freezing is also an option; just make sure to defrost them overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Kitchen Tips for Success

Quality Ingredients Matter: Use fresh, crisp green beans for the best texture and flavor. Frozen beans can also work in a pinch.
Adjust the Bacon: If you love bacon but want a little extra indulgence, feel free to add more! Just remember that the drippings will add flavor, so keep that in mind when seasoning.
Don’t Skip the Simmer: Letting the beans simmer in broth allows them to absorb all the rich flavors – it transforms the dish from good to unforgettable.

FAQs

Can I use frozen green beans? Yes! Just reduce the cooking time slightly since they’re already blanched.
Is there a vegetarian option? Absolutely! Swap bacon for smoked tempeh or mushrooms to get that umami flavor without the meat.
What can I serve with this dish? They pair wonderfully with roasted meats, potatoes, cornbread, or as part of a vegetable platter during holiday meals.

Conclusion

There’s something genuinely magical about sharing a warm dish of Southern green beans with bacon with those you love. This recipe embraces tradition, joy, and the simple pleasures of home cooking. So grab your apron, gather your favorite people, and allow this delicious homemade meal to create more than just fullness on the plate, but also warmth in your hearts. Let’s make memories together, one delightful bite at a time!

Contents

1 Southern Green Beans with Bacon

Southern Green Beans with Bacon

A warm and comforting side dish of Southern green beans cooked with crispy bacon, perfect for any gathering.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Course Side Dish

Cuisine Southern

Servings 4 servings

Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed (or frozen for convenience)
4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped (or turkey bacon)
1 medium onion, finely chopped (a sweet onion adds depth)
2 cloves garlic, minced (because who doesn’t love garlic?)
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for extra flavor)

Instructions

Cooking

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until it’s crispy. Save the drippings.
Remove the bacon from the pan and add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
Toss in the trimmed green beans, stirring to coat them with bacon drippings. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes.
Add the chicken broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a gentle boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir the crispy bacon back into the pan before serving. Taste for seasoning and enjoy.

Notes

Consider adding toasted nuts or red pepper flakes for variations. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently.

Keyword Bacon, Comfort Food, Easy Recipe, Green Beans, Quick Dinner

Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.

📩 admin@tastysunrise.com • Pinterest