Irresistible Southern Green Beans with Bacon & Garlic

The aroma of Southern Green Beans wafts through the air, enticing all who encounter it. Imagine tender-crisp beans mingling with savory garlic and smoky bacon, creating a dish that dances on your palate. Sweet Potato Black Bean Burgers Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes.

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Growing up, my grandma always made Southern Green Beans for Sunday dinners, filling our home with warmth and laughter. This dish has become a cherished tradition in our family, perfect for any gathering or cozy weeknight meal.

One memorable dinner featured these green beans, and I still hear my cousin raving about them. His love for this dish made me proud to carry on Grandma’s legacy.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Green Beans: Select vibrant green beans that snap easily; they should feel firm and fresh.

• Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for a richer flavor; it adds that smoky goodness we all crave.

• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives a robust aroma; avoid pre-minced versions if you can. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta recipe.

• Onion: Sweet onions work best; they enhance the overall sweetness of the dish.

• Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth for better control over seasoning.

• Salt and Pepper: Basic but essential seasonings; adjust according to your taste preference.

• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is great for sautéing those aromatic ingredients together.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this Hearty Lentil Stew Recipe recipe.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep the Green Beans: Rinse the green beans under cold water and trim off the ends. Aim for uniform pieces so they cook evenly.

Sauté the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook diced bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Let it fill your kitchen with its mouthwatering aroma.

Add Aromatics: Toss in minced garlic and chopped onion to the skillet with bacon. Sauté until the onions turn translucent and release their sweet scent.

Add Green Beans: Stir in your prepared green beans and mix well with the bacon mixture. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until they turn bright green.

Pour in Chicken Broth: Add chicken broth to cover the beans halfway. Bring everything to a simmer and let it cook down until tender, around 10-15 minutes.

Season & Serve!: Finish by seasoning with salt and pepper to taste before serving hot alongside your favorite main dishes or enjoying on their own!

This recipe not only brings joy to my table but also carries on my family’s culinary heritage. Jalapeno Popper Corn Fritters Enjoy each bite of these flavorful Southern Green Beans!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by blanching the green beans for 3-5 minutes to retain their vibrant color and crunch. Next, sauté them in butter or olive oil with garlic for about 6-8 minutes for maximum flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to add crispy bacon bits or toasted almonds for added texture and flavor. Try using different herbs like thyme or dill to customize your green beans to match your main dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store cooked southern green beans in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.

Cooking these southern green beans always reminds me of family gatherings where everyone fights over the last helping. It’s comforting to see how something so simple can bring everyone together.

FAQ

Can I use frozen green beans for this recipe?

Yes, frozen green beans work well but may require longer cooking time.

How do I make southern green beans spicy?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during cooking for a kick.

What are some good pairings for southern green beans?

Southern green beans pair beautifully with roasted meats and hearty casseroles, enhancing any meal’s flavor profile. Creamy Swiss Chicken Casserole.

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Southern Green Beans

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• Author: Teprod
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Southern Green Beans are a delightful, classic side dish that combines tender-crisp green beans with savory garlic and smoky bacon. This comforting recipe evokes memories of family gatherings and Sunday dinners, making it a must-try for any occasion. With vibrant colors and rich flavors, these green beans elevate any meal, offering a touch of Southern charm to your table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
• 4 strips thick-cut bacon, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium sweet onion, chopped
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil

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Instructions

1. Rinse the green beans under cold water and trim the ends.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook diced bacon until crispy (5-7 minutes).
3. Add minced garlic and chopped onion; sauté until onions are translucent.
4. Stir in green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes until bright green.
5. Pour in chicken broth to cover beans halfway; simmer for 10-15 minutes until tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper before serving hot.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: About 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: For added texture, consider tossing in toasted almonds or crispy shallots. To spice things up, include crushed red pepper flakes during cooking. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days, reheating gently on the stove.