Southern Green Beans are like the warm embrace of a summer afternoon, bursting with the rich flavors of bacon and a touch of sweetness that makes your taste buds sing. Imagine crisp-tender green beans coated in a savory broth, mingling with smoky bits of bacon and aromatic onions—it’s the kind of dish that makes you want to hug your grandmother for teaching you the recipe. sweet potato black bean burgers creamy cheesy scalloped potatoes.

Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- How long should I cook southern green beans?
- Can I use frozen green beans for this recipe?
- What’s the best way to season southern green beans?
- 📖 Recipe Card
As I sit here reminiscing about family gatherings, I can’t help but remember my Aunt Betty’s kitchen, where Southern Green Beans often stole the show. There’s something magical about this dish; it’s perfect for Sunday dinners or holiday feasts, filling the air with nostalgia and mouthwatering aromas that have everyone asking for seconds. jalapeno popper corn fritters Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be counting down the days until you can make it again.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Southern Green Beans are not only easy to prepare but also offer a flavorful experience that will impress your guests
- The vibrant colors and delicious aromas create an eye-catching dish that’s perfect for any gathering
- Plus, they pair well with virtually any main course, making them a versatile side dish for all occasions
Sharing these Southern Green Beans at a family potluck had everyone reaching for seconds and thirds—my cousin even tried to take leftovers home! For more inspiration, check out this Sausage and Vegetable Soup recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Green Beans: Look for firm, bright green beans without blemishes for the best flavor and texture.
Bacon: Choose thick-cut bacon to ensure it renders enough fat while adding great flavor.
Onion: A medium yellow onion works well; it adds sweetness when sautéed.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential—its aromatic qualities elevate the dish beautifully.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness while enhancing flavor. homemade Greek chicken gyros.
Sugar: A hint of sugar balances the bitterness of green beans and enhances their natural sweetness.
Black Pepper: Freshly cracked pepper adds just the right amount of bite to this comforting dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by washing and trimming your green beans—cut off both ends. Chop your onion and mince garlic while dreaming about how delicious these beans will be.
Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook diced bacon until crispy. Let it sizzle until golden brown and fragrant, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas.
Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add chopped onions to the skillet with bacon grease. Sauté until soft and translucent before stirring in minced garlic for an additional minute until aromatic.
Add Green Beans and Broth: Toss in your trimmed green beans along with chicken broth and sugar. Stir everything together so that each bean is coated in that delicious mixture.
Simmer Away!: Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer over low heat for about 20 minutes. This allows flavors to meld beautifully while keeping those beans tender yet crisp.
Finish It Off!: Remove the lid and season with black pepper. Stir gently to combine all ingredients one last time before serving hot on your favorite dish.
And there you have it! With just a few steps, you’ve created Southern Green Beans that are sure to bring smiles around your table! Enjoy every bite!
You Must Know
- Southern green beans are a classic side dish that pairs beautifully with any meal
- They are tender, flavorful, and simple to make, making them a staple in many households
- The right seasoning can elevate their taste to a whole new level, turning ordinary beans into extraordinary
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by blanching your green beans for three minutes before sautéing them in butter or oil. This method preserves their vibrant color and crunchiness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to toss in garlic, bacon bits, or even some crushed red pepper for an extra kick. These additions will enhance the flavor and create a memorable dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover southern green beans in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat them gently on the stove over low heat to retain their texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked southern green beans, always check for tenderness; they should still have a slight crunch
- Avoid overcooking to maintain their bright color and nutrients
- A splash of lemon juice just before serving adds brightness and enhances the flavors beautifully
Cooking these southern green beans reminds me of summer barbecues at my grandma’s house, where everyone fought over the last helping.
FAQ
How long should I cook southern green beans?
Cook southern green beans for about five to seven minutes until they are tender yet crisp.
Can I use frozen green beans for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans; just adjust cooking times accordingly.
What’s the best way to season southern green beans?
Use salt, pepper, garlic powder, or even bacon grease for that authentic southern flavor.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Southern Green Beans
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
Description
Southern Green Beans are a classic Southern side dish that combines tender green beans with savory bacon and aromatic onions. This comforting recipe is perfect for family gatherings or holiday feasts, filling your home with nostalgic aromas and flavors. With just a few simple ingredients and easy preparation steps, you’ll have a delicious dish that pairs beautifully with any main course.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon, diced
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients: Wash and trim the green beans; chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the bacon grease and sauté until soft. Stir in the minced garlic for an additional minute.
- Toss in the green beans along with chicken broth and sugar. Mix well to coat the beans.
- Cover and simmer over low heat for about 20 minutes until tender yet crisp.
- Remove the lid, season with black pepper, stir gently, and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg