Southern Style Green Beans are a comforting dish packed with flavor. They are cooked slowly with bacon, garlic, and spices to create a warm and tasty meal you’ll love.
These green beans are perfect for family dinners! I love serving them alongside fried chicken or cornbread. Trust me, it’s hard to stop at just one helping! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Green Beans: These are the stars of the dish! Look for firm, bright green beans. If fresh isn’t available, frozen green beans work too. Just thaw and add them later in the cooking process to prevent overcooking.
Bacon: Bacon adds that delicious smoky flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon works. For a vegetarian twist, you could use liquid smoke or smoked paprika for flavor without meat.
Onion: Yellow onions add a great sweetness. If you’re in a pinch, shallots or even green onions can substitute well.
Chicken Broth: This gives a rich flavor to the beans. Vegetable broth is a fantastic alternative if you’re looking for a vegetarian version or if you’re out of chicken broth.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Green Beans?
Getting a deep, rich flavor in Southern Style Green Beans relies on the cooking method. Start by frying the bacon to render the fat, enhancing the taste from the beginning. Follow these steps:
- Cook bacon in medium heat until crispy. This allows the smoky flavor to infuse the oil.
- Sauté onions in the bacon fat until translucent. This step builds the base flavor.
- Add garlic just until fragrant to avoid burning—it’s all about layering flavors!
- Keep an eye on your broth level while simmering. You want the beans tender without drying out. Remember, a little extra liquid can help!
These steps will ensure your green beans are full of flavor and perfectly cooked. Enjoy your time in the kitchen!
Southern Style Green Beans
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp salt, adjust to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and about 1 hour for cooking. You’ll enjoy a delicious side of Southern Style Green Beans in about 1 hour and 10 minutes, perfect for family dinners or gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Bacon:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. This will take around 5-7 minutes. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the crispy bacon pieces and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Leave the delicious bacon fat in the pot.
2. Sauté the Onion:
Add the finely chopped onion to the hot bacon fat in the pot. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant. This step builds a wonderful flavor base for the dish!
3. Add the Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, just until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
4. Incorporate the Green Beans:
Next, add the trimmed green beans to the pot. Stir well to ensure that they are coated with the scrumptious bacon fat and the sautéed onions and garlic.
5. Pour in the Chicken Broth:
Now it’s time to add the chicken broth. Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and the optional crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Stir everything together!
6. Bring it to a Boil:
Raise the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
7. Let it Simmer:
Let the green beans simmer gently for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. You’ll want the beans to become tender and soak in all that flavor. Stir occasionally and check the liquid level; if it’s getting low, add a splash of water or broth to keep everything moist.
8. Add Back the Bacon:
Once the beans are tender, stir in the crispy bacon pieces that you set aside earlier. Allow them to heat through for another 5 minutes so that the flavors meld together beautifully.
9. Taste and Serve:
Give everything a taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Once you’re happy with the flavor, serve the Southern Style Green Beans warm as a delightful side dish!
These green beans are sure to be a hit at your dinner table, infused with smoky goodness and perfect alongside any meal!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans! Just make sure to thaw them first and add them later in the cooking process—about 20 to 30 minutes into simmering—to prevent them from becoming mushy.
What Can I Use Instead of Bacon?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative, you can substitute the bacon with smoked paprika or liquid smoke to achieve a similar smoky flavor. You can also use turkey bacon as a lighter option!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a pinch of water or broth to retain moisture.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! If you enjoy some heat, feel free to increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes. You can also add a dash of hot sauce while cooking to kick up the spice level!