southern green beans and potatoes recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
southern green beans and potatoes recipe
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The Best southern green beans and potatoes recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes, southern green beans and potatoes. This dish is a staple in our household, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in yours too. It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal effort from you, the cook. The combination of tender green beans, crispy potatoes, and savory seasonings is absolute perfection.

I remember my grandmother used to make this dish for me when I was a child, and now I love making it for my own kids. It’s a true comfort food that never fails to put a smile on our faces. When I think of this recipe, I think of the warmth and love that goes into every single bite.

It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings us all together. And the best part? It’s incredibly healthy too!

The green beans are packed with vitamins and minerals, while the potatoes provide complex carbohydrates and fiber. It’s a match made in heaven, if you ask me.

Southern Green Beans and Potatoes

Southern Green Beans and Potatoes

4.6 from 535 votes

A classic Southern side dish featuring tender green beans and potatoes simmered low and slow with smoky bacon. The beans are cooked until very soft and flavorful, absorbing the rich broth from the bacon and seasonings.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time45 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 280 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and snapped into 2-inch pieces
4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the Dutch oven over medium heat and add the chopped bacon.
2Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the fat is rendered.
3Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the drippings in the pot.
4Add the diced onion to the hot bacon drippings and cook over medium heat for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring often, until the onion is translucent and softened.
5Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
6Pour the chicken broth into the pot and add the salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
7Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and add the green beans.
8Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the beans are tender but still bright green.
9Add the potato cubes to the pot, stirring them into the broth.
10Return the lid and continue simmering over low heat for 20 to 25 minutes, until the potatoes are fork-tender and the green beans are very soft.
11Stir in the apple cider vinegar and the reserved crispy bacon, then taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
Serve hot.

🔧Equipment

Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot with lid
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 280 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 20mg🧂Sodium: 950mg🌾Total Carbs: 32g🥦Dietary Fiber: 6g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 10g

📝Notes

For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth; add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to sauté the onions and garlic. The beans should be very tender, almost falling apart, for authentic Southern texture.

Watch Video Of How Southern Green Beans and Potatoes Works

This southern green beans and potatoes recipe is truly a classic for a reason – it’s easy to make, deliciously flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or want to impress your friends with a hearty side dish, this recipe never fails to deliver.

And the best part? It stores beautifully in the fridge or freezer for up to 3 days or can be reheated easily whenever you need it.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Southern Green Beans and Potatoes

Q: What type of potatoes should I use in this recipe?

I recommend using Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes for this recipe. They have a high starch content that helps them hold their shape and gives them a deliciously fluffy texture.

Q: Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?

No, I highly recommend using fresh green beans for this recipe. Frozen green beans can be mushy and lack the crunch that fresh ones provide.

Q: How do I prevent the potatoes from becoming too brown?

Make sure to cut the potatoes into uniform pieces so they cook evenly. You can also try soaking them in cold water for about 30 minutes before cooking to help reduce browning.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

No, it’s best to make this recipe just before serving. The flavors will meld together beautifully once it’s cooked, but if you let it sit for too long, the flavors will start to break down.

Q: Can I substitute garlic with onion?

No, garlic adds a pungent flavor that complements the green beans perfectly. Onion would change the flavor profile entirely and might not work as well with the other ingredients.

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