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Cozy Southern Bacon and Green Beans

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A simple, comforting Southern side dish featuring crispy bacon and tender green beans cooked with garlic and broth for a smoky, savory flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Pinch of salt
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 pound of fresh green beans under cold water and trim the stem ends. If using frozen, thaw and pat dry.
  2. Place 6 thick-cut bacon slices in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until crispy but not burnt. Remove bacon and set aside on paper towels. Leave 1-2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pan.
  3. Add 1 tablespoon unsalted butter to the bacon fat in the skillet. Once melted, add finely chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add green beans to the skillet and stir to coat in bacon fat, butter, and aromatics. Cook for 5 minutes over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until beans start to soften but remain slightly crisp.
  5. Pour in ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth. Season with a pinch of salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Stir to combine. Cover and simmer for 5-7 minutes until green beans are tender and most liquid has evaporated.
  6. Crumble cooked bacon and stir it back into the beans. Add red pepper flakes if desired. Cook uncovered for 1-2 more minutes to meld flavors.
  7. Remove from heat and serve warm.

Notes

Avoid overcooking green beans to keep them tender-crisp and vibrant green. Cook bacon slowly over medium heat to render fat properly and avoid burning. Use fresh garlic for best flavor. Reheat leftovers gently with a splash of broth to maintain texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon, green beans, Southern recipe, comfort food, easy side dish, smoky, quick recipe

Find it online: https://emacrave.com/cozy-southern-bacon-and-green-beans-recipe-easy-comfort-food-ideas/