Quick & Easy Southern Bacon And Green Beans Recipe

Looking for a delicious side dish that’s both hearty and full of flavor? This Quick & Easy Southern Bacon and Green Beans Recipe is the perfect option for a wholesome, mouthwatering dish that will impress family and guests alike. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, this simple Southern favorite blends the smoky taste of crispy bacon with the earthy flavors of green beans, creating an irresistible combination. Keep reading for all the tips, variations, and expert advice to make this dish perfectly every time!

What Are Southern Bacon and Green Beans?

Southern Bacon and Green Beans is a classic Southern-style recipe that marries tender green beans with savory, crispy bacon. Traditionally, this dish is slow-cooked, allowing the beans to absorb the flavors of the bacon and seasoning. However, this recipe is designed to be quick, easy, and just as flavorful! It's a staple in Southern kitchens and is often served as a side dish at family gatherings, barbecues, and holiday meals. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a batch of these savory, smoky beans that everyone will love.

Ingredients List for Southern Bacon and Green Beans

To make this dish, you’ll need some simple, easy-to-find ingredients. Here's the list:

• 1 pound fresh green beans, ends trimmed and beans cut into bite-sized pieces
• 6-8 slices of bacon, thick-cut preferred for a more substantial bite
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth (or water, if you prefer a lighter dish)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for sautéing the onions)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

Ingredient List Breakdown

Green Beans:

The star of this dish, green beans, are high in fiber and full of nutrients. Fresh green beans work best for this recipe as they hold up well during the cooking process and provide a satisfying bite. You can also use frozen green beans if you're in a pinch.

Bacon:

Bacon adds that rich, smoky flavor that makes this dish so irresistible. Opt for thick-cut bacon to give the dish a more substantial, meaty texture. You can also choose hickory or applewood-smoked bacon to add extra depth to the flavor.

Onion & Garlic:

These aromatics build the flavor foundation of the dish. Onions add sweetness while garlic enhances the overall taste with its pungent aroma. Together, they elevate the dish and complement the flavors of the bacon and beans.

Chicken Broth:

Chicken broth is used to add moisture and enhance the flavor. It also helps deglaze the pan and pick up any browned bits left behind by the bacon. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can use water, but chicken broth adds richness.

Salt, Pepper, and Red Pepper Flakes:

These seasonings are essential for bringing the dish together. Use salt and pepper to taste, and if you like a little heat, red pepper flakes provide a subtle kick that balances the dish.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this Southern Bacon and Green Beans recipe is how versatile it can be. Here are some substitutions and variations to make the dish your own:

• Turkey bacon or pancetta: For a leaner option, swap regular bacon for turkey bacon. If you want a more gourmet twist, try pancetta, which has a similar flavor but less fat.
• Frozen or canned green beans: Fresh green beans work best, but you can substitute frozen green beans. Simply defrost and drain them before cooking. Canned green beans can also be used, but reduce the cooking time as they are already soft.
• Vegetarian option: Omit the bacon and use a vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For added flavor, you can substitute the bacon with smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the smoky flavor.
• Add potatoes: For a heartier dish, add diced potatoes along with the green beans. The potatoes will absorb the flavors of the broth and bacon, making for a comforting side.
• Spice it up: In addition to red pepper flakes, try adding a splash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños for an extra kick.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process. Here's a step-by-step guide to making this delicious Southern Bacon and Green Beans recipe:

1. Prepare the bacon: Cut the bacon into small, bite-sized pieces. Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until it becomes crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the pan and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
2. Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet with the bacon grease, add the diced onions. Sauté them over medium heat until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. If the skillet is dry, you can add a tablespoon of olive oil. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Cook the green beans: Add the green beans to the skillet, stirring them to coat in the bacon grease and aromatics. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cover the skillet and allow the green beans to cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender but still have a slight bite.
4. Combine and finish: Once the green beans are cooked, stir the crispy bacon back into the skillet. Season the dish with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Toss everything together to ensure the bacon and seasonings are evenly distributed.
5. Serve: Transfer the green beans to a serving dish and enjoy!

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

Here’s a quick recap of the essential steps to ensure your Southern Bacon and Green Beans turns out perfectly every time:

1. Cook the bacon until crispy.
2. Sauté onions and garlic in bacon grease.
3. Add green beans and simmer with broth until tender.
4. Stir bacon back in and season to taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the green beans: You want your green beans to be tender but not mushy. Keep an eye on them while they’re simmering and taste them as you go to make sure they still have a little crunch.
2. Using too much salt: Remember, bacon is already salty, so be cautious when adding extra salt to the dish.
3. Not cooking the bacon fully: Make sure your bacon is crispy before removing it from the pan. Soggy bacon will not provide the same texture and flavor.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This Southern Bacon and Green Beans dish is both rustic and delicious, making it perfect for casual meals or special occasions. For the best results, consider these serving tips:

• Serve warm: This dish is best served hot, straight from the skillet. You can prepare it ahead of time and simply reheat it before serving if needed.
• Garnish: Sprinkle a little extra crispy bacon on top before serving for a more appealing presentation.
• Side dish pairing: This dish pairs well with Southern classics like cornbread, mashed potatoes, or fried chicken.

How to Serve Southern Bacon and Green Beans

Southern Bacon and Green Beans are a fantastic side dish for both casual dinners and festive meals. Serve alongside grilled meats, BBQ, or classic Southern dishes like fried chicken or beef steaks. For a well-rounded meal, pair this dish with mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, or a warm biscuit.

Presentation Ideas for Southern Bacon and Green Beans

To make your Southern Bacon and Green Beans look as good as they taste, consider these simple presentation tips:

• Serve in a cast-iron skillet for a rustic, Southern feel.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or crispy bacon bits for a pop of color.
• Use a large serving bowl for family-style meals.

Southern Bacon and Green Beans Recipe Tips

• Make it ahead: This dish can be made a few hours ahead of time and reheated when needed. The flavors will continue to meld as it sits.
• Adjust the spice: If you want more heat, feel free to add more red pepper flakes or even a dash of cayenne.
• Crispy bacon is key: Be sure to cook your bacon until it’s fully crispy for the best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use canned green beans?

Yes, canned green beans can be used, but they are already cooked, so reduce the simmering time to just a few minutes to avoid mushy beans.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Southern Bacon and Green Beans a few hours ahead of time and reheat it before serving. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

3. Can I freeze Southern Bacon and Green Beans?

Yes, this dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. However, the texture of the green beans may change slightly upon thawing and reheating.

Conclusion

This Quick & Easy Southern Bacon and Green Beans Recipe is a simple yet flavorful side dish that adds a touch of Southern charm to any meal. Whether you're preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a holiday gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit with its smoky bacon and tender green beans. Try it out, and don’t forget to experiment with variations and substitutions to make it your own! Enjoy!

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