Southern Style Green Beans are a tasty side dish that really packs a punch! They’re cooked with bacon and spices, giving them a savory flavor that’s hard to resist.
Honestly, these green beans are so good, they may steal the spotlight at dinner! I love serving them alongside cornbread for a comforting meal that feels like home.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are best for this dish as they offer a bright color and crisp texture. If you’re in a pinch, frozen green beans can work too. Just be sure to cook them for a shorter time to avoid mushiness.
Bacon: The bacon provides an amazing smoky flavor. Turkey bacon can substitute for a lower-fat option, but it won’t offer the same richness. If you want to keep it plant-based, try using olive oil and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for flavor.
Onion & Garlic: These ingredients add depth to the dish. White or yellow onions are great options, and if you’re not a big onion fan, you can leave it out or use shallots for a milder flavor. Garlic powder can substitute fresh garlic in a pinch.
Chicken Broth: For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth or water. This alternative will still provide moisture without sacrificing too much flavor.
How Do You Ensure the Green Beans Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the green beans just right is key to this dish. You don’t want them too soft or undercooked. Here are some simple steps to nail it:
- First, trim the ends of the green beans; this will help them cook evenly.
- Cook them in the skillet with the bacon and broth uncovered at first, so you can keep an eye on their texture.
- Simmer them covered for 15-20 minutes, checking for tenderness. They should be bright green and still slightly crunchy when done.
- If you find them done before the time is up, feel free to uncover them and sauté for another few minutes to dry up any excess moisture.
By mastering these techniques, you’ll get vibrant, flavorful green beans every time!
Southern Style Green Beans
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and washed
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth or water
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance flavor)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for richness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to cook. So, in about 30-35 minutes, you’ll have a warm, flavorful dish to serve alongside your favorite meals!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Start by heating a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the chopped bacon and cook it until it’s nice and crispy. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the pan, leaving the rendered fat behind. This is your flavor base!
2. Sauté the Onion:
In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion to the leftover bacon fat. Sauté it over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and soft. This step adds a delicious savory note to your beans!
3. Add Garlic:
Now, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute. You want to make sure the garlic is fragrant but not burnt, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
4. Stir in the Green Beans:
Next, throw in the trimmed green beans. Give them a good stir to coat them in the onion and bacon fat, which adds rich flavor to the beans.
5. Add Broth and Simmer:
Pour in the chicken broth (or water) and bring everything to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This cooking time allows the green beans to become tender while still maintaining a little crunch!
6. Reduce Excess Liquid:
After simmering, uncover the skillet and continue cooking for a few more minutes if there’s a lot of liquid. You want the beans to be nicely coated, not swimming in broth.
7. Finish with Bacon and Seasoning:
Stir in the reserved crispy bacon, and if you like, add a bit of butter for extra richness. Season with salt, pepper, and sugar (if using) to taste. Mix everything well!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Southern Style Green Beans are ready! Serve them warm as a wonderful side dish, and enjoy the savory flavors that are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
This recipe yields tender, savory green beans flavored with smoky bacon and onions—classic Southern comfort food!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans! Just be sure to thaw them first for even cooking. You may need to adjust the cooking time, as frozen beans will cook faster than fresh ones. Start checking for tenderness after about 10 minutes of simmering.
What If I Don’t Have Bacon?
If bacon is not available or you want a vegetarian version, you can replace it with olive oil or butter for cooking. To add a smoky flavor, consider using smoked paprika or liquid smoke in the dish.
How Should I Store Leftover Green Beans?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth if they seem dry.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance and simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just be cautious not to overcook the beans during reheating, as they can become mushy.
