Southern Green Beans with Bacon

Southern Green Beans with Bacon

Introduction

Southern Green Beans with Bacon is a beloved dish in Southern cooking, known for its combination of tender green beans, crispy bacon, and flavorful seasonings.

This side dish has become a staple at family gatherings, holiday dinners, and Sunday suppers.

With the addition of caramelized onions, garlic, and a touch of broth, these green beans are infused with deep, savory notes that make them irresistible.

This recipe elevates humble green beans to a hearty, satisfying side, perfect for pairing with roasted meats, grilled dishes, or a holiday spread.

Whether you’re a fan of classic comfort food or just looking to add a rich, tasty side to your meal, these Southern-style green beans are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

To make this Southern Green Beans with Bacon dish, you will need:

1 lb (450g) of fresh green beans, trimmed (you can also use canned or frozen, but fresh is best)

5-6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 medium onion, finely diced

2 cloves of garlic, minced

1/2 cup of chicken or vegetable broth (for extra flavor and moisture)

1/2 teaspoon of black pepper

1/4 teaspoon of salt (adjust to taste, as bacon can be salty)

1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

1 tablespoon of butter (optional, for extra richness)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans

1. Blanch the green beans (optional for fresh beans): Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then add the green beans. Let them cook for about 3-5 minutes until they are just tender but still vibrant green. Drain the beans and transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process, which helps preserve their color and texture. Drain again and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

1. In a large skillet or cast-iron pan, cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
2. Once the bacon is crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove it from the skillet, leaving the bacon grease in the pan. Place the cooked bacon on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess grease.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

1. In the same skillet with the bacon grease, add the diced onion. Sauté over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Step 4: Add the Green Beans and Broth

1. Add the blanched green beans to the skillet, stirring them well to coat in the bacon grease, onions, and garlic mixture.
2. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. This will help the beans absorb more flavor and add a bit of moisture to the dish, keeping the beans tender and juicy.
3. Season with black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Stir everything together to ensure the green beans are evenly coated.

Step 5: Simmer for Extra Flavor

1. Lower the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet with a lid. Let the green beans simmer in the broth for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the green beans to absorb all the flavors from the bacon, onion, and broth.
2. If you prefer your green beans softer, let them cook a bit longer. For a slightly crisper texture, reduce the cooking time.

Step 6: Add Bacon and Finish

1. Once the green beans are tender and most of the broth has evaporated, add the cooked bacon back into the skillet, stirring to combine.
2. For extra richness, add a tablespoon of butter at this stage and let it melt into the beans, coating them with a slight buttery glaze.
3. Taste the dish and adjust the seasonings if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or a touch more red pepper flakes for heat.

Step 7: Serve

1. Transfer the green beans and bacon mixture to a serving dish, or serve them directly from the skillet for a rustic, homestyle presentation.
2. Garnish with additional bacon bits if desired and serve warm as a side dish to your favorite meal.

Conclusion

These Southern Green Beans with Bacon are a comforting and flavorful side dish that brings together the smoky, savory goodness of bacon with the fresh, crisp taste of green beans.

The slow simmer in broth enhances the beans’ natural flavor and adds a depth that elevates them beyond the ordinary.

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses, from roasted chicken to grilled steaks and holiday roasts.

It’s versatile enough for a casual weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for holiday gatherings.

Whether you’re making them for your family or bringing them to a potluck, these green beans are sure to impress with their rich, satisfying flavor.

Enjoy a taste of Southern comfort in every bite!