Southern Green Beans with Potatoes and Bacon Recipe
If you’ve been craving that down-home Southern comfort food that warms your soul, this Southern Green Beans with Potatoes and Bacon Recipe is just the ticket. There’s something special about tender green beans simmered alongside soft, comforting potatoes and crispy, smoky bacon that keeps me coming back to this dish season after season. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate and makes even the simplest meals feel a little bit more special.
What I love about this Southern Green Beans with Potatoes and Bacon Recipe is how effortlessly it brings rich flavor and heartiness to your dinner table, especially when fresh green beans are in season. Whether you’re serving it as a side for a family barbecue, a holiday feast, or just a cozy weeknight meal, this recipe really delivers authentic Southern charm that’s both satisfying and straightforward to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, fresh ingredients that balance perfectly—the smoky bacon infuses everything with flavor while the potatoes add a velvety texture that complements the green beans beautifully. When shopping, picking good-quality bacon and fresh, firm green beans will make all the difference.
- Fresh green beans: Look for beans that are crisp and bright green—avoid any that feel limp or have brown spots for the best results.
- Bacon: Thick-cut bacon gives you that perfect balance of crispy and chewy texture, plus rich, smoky flavor.
- Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with the bacon drippings.
- Garlic: Just a couple cloves, minced fresh, bring a lovely warmth without overpowering the dish.
- Russet potatoes: These hold up well during simmering and get tender without falling apart.
- Chicken broth or water: Chicken broth enriches the dish, but water can work in a pinch—just adjust the seasoning accordingly.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste as the dish simmers.
- Smoked paprika: Optional, but a great little secret to boost that smoky depth even further.
- Butter: Just a tablespoon stirred in at the end adds a silky richness, but feel free to skip it if you prefer.
Variations
One of the things I really enjoy is making this Southern Green Beans with Potatoes and Bacon Recipe my own by tweaking it based on what I have on hand or my mood. You can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs, and I encourage you to play around with it!
- Meat-Free Version: I’ve swapped out bacon with smoked paprika and a drizzle of olive oil for a vegetarian-friendly take that still keeps a smoky edge.
- Spicy Kick: Adding a pinch of cayenne or some chopped jalapeños brought an extra punch when I wanted to spice things up.
- Different Beans: Using fresh lima beans or butter beans creates a delightful variation, especially in summertime.
- Herbal Touch: A few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary in the simmering pot can add a lovely fragrance and complexity.
How to Make Southern Green Beans with Potatoes and Bacon Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Bacon to Crispy Perfection
Start by heating your large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped thick-cut bacon, and cook until it’s nicely browned and crispy. This usually takes about 7–10 minutes. Don’t rush—letting it render slowly means you’ll get that golden fat that flavors everything else. Once done, scoop the bacon out with a slotted spoon and set it aside, but keep all those flavorful drippings in the pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Into the bacon drippings, toss your diced onion. Cook them gently for 3–4 minutes until they soften and start to become translucent. You’ll smell that natural sweetness developing here. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds—long enough to release its fragrance but not so long it burns and turns bitter.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables and Build Flavors
Now, add your trimmed fresh green beans and chunked russet potatoes right into the pot. Stir everything well so the veggies get coated with that delicious bacon fat and onion mixture. This little step infuses the beans and potatoes with the smoky goodness right from the start.
Step 4: Simmer Gently Until Tender
Pour in the chicken broth (or water if you’re using that) and season the whole pot with salt, black pepper, and, if you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of smoked paprika. Bring it all just to a gentle boil, then immediately lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 35–45 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep things from sticking. This slow simmer is where the magic happens: the potatoes become silky, the beans soften perfectly, and the whole dish gets infused with deep, comforting flavors.
Step 5: Finish and Flavor Boost
Once those potatoes and beans are tender, stir the crispy bacon back into the pot. Add that optional tablespoon of butter if you want an extra layer of richness—trust me, it’s worth it. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, maybe a pinch more salt or pepper, and you’re ready to serve up the best Southern Green Beans with Potatoes and Bacon Recipe I know.
How to Serve Southern Green Beans with Potatoes and Bacon Recipe
Garnishes
I like to sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a little green onion on top for a fresh pop of color and a mild oniony flavor that cuts through the richness. Sometimes, a dash of red pepper flakes works wonders if you want to wake up your taste buds. Don’t underestimate the power of a simple garnish to take this dish from everyday to a little more special.
Side Dishes
This Southern Green Beans with Potatoes and Bacon Recipe pairs beautifully with classic Southern mains like fried chicken, pulled pork, or baked ham. I also love serving it alongside a slice of cornbread and a cold glass of sweet tea for the full experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For holidays or gatherings, I’ve plated this in rustic cast-iron skillets or beautiful ceramic bowls to keep it warm longer and give folks that authentic Southern vibe. Layering it on top of creamy grits or spooning over buttered rice makes for a hearty, comforting one-pot meal that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors meld together even more after a day or two, making it taste even better than fresh sometimes. Just give it a gentle stir before reheating, as the potatoes can settle a bit.
Freezing
Freezing this dish works pretty well. I like to freeze it in individual portions so I can thaw just what I need. Keep in mind the potatoes might change texture slightly after freezing, but it’s still delicious and convenient for busy weeks.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid breaking up the potatoes too much. If it feels dry, add a splash of water or broth as you warm it up. A quick reheat in the microwave works too—just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between.
FAQs
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Can I use canned green beans instead of fresh for this Southern Green Beans with Potatoes and Bacon Recipe?
While fresh green beans give the best texture and flavor, you can use canned green beans in a pinch. Just be sure to drain and rinse them well first, and add them later in the cooking process since canned beans are already tender.
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Is there a substitute for bacon in this recipe?
If you want to avoid pork or need a vegetarian option, smoky smoked paprika combined with sautéed mushrooms or smoked tofu can mimic some of that bacon depth. You could also try liquid smoke sparingly to enhance the flavor.
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How do I know when the potatoes and green beans are perfectly cooked?
The potatoes should be fork-tender but not falling apart, and the green beans should be soft yet still have a slight bite—think melt-in-your-mouth with a touch of firmness, not mushy.
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Can I make this Southern Green Beans with Potatoes and Bacon Recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, absolutely! Brown the bacon first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until everything is tender. Just keep an eye on the liquid levels and add broth as needed.
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What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water, stirring often, or use the microwave in short bursts covered with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in.
Final Thoughts
This Southern Green Beans with Potatoes and Bacon Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of slow Sundays spent with family, sharing stories over plates full of comforting food. It’s simple but so flavorful, and once you make it, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again on lazy evenings or whenever you need a little taste of Southern hospitality. I really hope you’ll give this recipe a try—it’s like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket of flavor, and it definitely deserves a spot on your dinner rotation.
Print
Southern Green Beans with Potatoes and Bacon Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This Southern Green Beans with Potatoes and Bacon recipe offers a comforting and flavorful side dish featuring tender green beans and potatoes simmered slowly in bacon drippings and chicken broth. Enhanced with garlic, onions, and optional smoked paprika and butter, it delivers a rich Southern classic perfect for any hearty meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1½ lb fresh green beans (trimmed)
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 3 medium russet potatoes (peeled and cut into chunks)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
Meat and Fats
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon (chopped)
- 1 tbsp butter (optional, for richness)
Liquids and Seasonings
- 3 cups chicken broth (or water)
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
Instructions
- Cook the bacon: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until browned and the fat is rendered. Remove the bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon drippings in the pot.
- Build the flavor base: Add the diced onion to the bacon drippings and sauté for 3–4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add vegetables: Add the trimmed green beans and peeled potato chunks to the pot, stirring to coat them well with the bacon fat and mix with the aromatics.
- Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth, then season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
- Slow cook: Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let everything simmer gently for 35–45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and the green beans are soft and infused with the smoky bacon flavor.
- Finish: Stir the cooked bacon back into the pot. If desired, add the tablespoon of butter for extra richness and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve the Southern green beans and potatoes hot as a classic comfort food side dish perfect for family dinners or holiday meals.
Notes
- Use fresh green beans for the best texture and flavor.
- Bacon drippings add authentic Southern taste; do not discard.
- Smoked paprika is optional but adds depth and smoky warmth.
- Butter is optional and enhances richness when added at the end.
- Adjust cooking time if your potatoes are cut smaller or larger.
- Can substitute chicken broth with water for a lighter version.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keywords: Southern green beans, green beans and potatoes, bacon green beans, Southern side dish, comfort food, slow simmered green beans
