Southern Green Beans with Potatoes and Bacon

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Description

Southern Green Beans with Potatoes and Bacon is a classic comfort food side dish that’s hearty, smoky, and full of flavor. Fresh green beans are simmered with tender baby potatoes, smoky bacon, onions, and simple seasonings until everything is infused with a savory Southern taste. Perfect for Sunday dinners, holidays, or any meal where you want a satisfying side.

Ingredients For Southern Green Beans with Potatoes and Bacon

  • 1 ½ lbs fresh green beans, trimmed

  • 1 lb baby red potatoes (or gold potatoes), quartered

  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped

  • 1 medium onion, diced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 4 cups chicken broth (or enough to cover vegetables)

  • 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)

  • 1 bay leaf (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the bacon: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon pieces and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.

  2. Sauté the aromatics: Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until soft, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

  3. Add potatoes & beans: Place quartered potatoes and trimmed green beans into the pot. Stir to coat in the bacon fat and seasonings.

  4. Add broth & seasonings: Pour in chicken broth until vegetables are just covered. Add salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and bay leaf.

  5. Simmer: Cover and simmer on low heat for 35–40 minutes, until potatoes are fork-tender and beans are soft but not mushy.

  6. Finish with bacon: Stir in cooked bacon pieces before serving. Remove bay leaf.

  7. Serve warm: Enjoy as a hearty side dish with cornbread, fried chicken, or grilled meats.

Notes

  • You can substitute ham hocks, smoked turkey, or sausage for bacon if preferred.

  • Use fresh green beans for best flavor, but frozen can work in a pinch.

  • For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Tips

  • Don’t overcook the potatoes or they’ll break apart.

  • For extra smoky flavor, use smoked bacon or add a drop of liquid smoke.

  • Make a day ahead – the flavors deepen after resting overnight.

  • Use a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot for even cooking.

Servings

  • Makes 6 servings as a side dish.

Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 230

  • Protein: 8g

  • Carbohydrates: 22g

  • Fat: 11g

  • Fiber: 4g

  • Sodium: 620mg

Benefits

  • Nutritious: Green beans are rich in fiber, vitamins A, C, and K.

  • Balanced: Potatoes provide energy-boosting carbs, while bacon adds protein and flavor.

  • Comfort food: A warming, home-style dish that pairs with almost any main course.

  • Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or holiday tables.

Q & A

Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Yes! Use olive oil instead of bacon fat and add smoked paprika for flavor.

Q: Can I use canned green beans?
A: Fresh is best, but canned can be used—just reduce cooking time to avoid mushiness.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Yes, but the potatoes may change texture slightly. Freeze up to 2 months in airtight containers.

Q: What mains pair best with this?
A: Southern fried chicken, meatloaf, pork chops, BBQ ribs, or baked ham.

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