I’m so excited to share this simple yet delicious bacon green beans recipe with you. It’s a classic dish that never fails to impress, and it’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday dinner, a family gathering, or just a quick weeknight meal. I’ve been making this recipe for years, and my family loves it just as much as I do.
The combination of crispy bacon, tender green beans, and a hint of sweetness from the brown sugar is absolute perfection. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time.
The history of this dish is fascinating. It’s believed to have originated in the Southern United States, where green beans were a staple crop. The addition of bacon was likely a nod to the region’s love of pork and its role in many traditional recipes.
Regardless of its origins, this dish has become a beloved favorite across the country, and for good reason. One of the key techniques in making this recipe is cooking the green beans until they’re just tender but still crisp. This ensures they retain their texture and flavor while also being easy to eat.
To achieve this, simply steam or sauté the green beans until they’re slightly softened but still retain some crunch. Then, add the cooked bacon and toss everything together with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of brown sugar. The result is a dish that’s both comforting and elegant.
It’s perfect for serving at a dinner party or as a side dish for your next family gathering.
Bacon Green Beans
4.7 from 841 votes
Fresh green beans are sautéed with crispy bacon for a savory side dish that is quick and easy. The smoky bacon flavor infuses the beans, creating a delicious combination that pairs well with any main course.
1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2Add the trimmed green beans and cook for 3 minutes until they turn bright green and are slightly tender.
3Drain the beans in a colander and immediately rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
4Place the chopped bacon in a large cold skillet and set over medium heat.
5Cook the bacon for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is crispy and the fat has rendered.
6Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
7Add the minced garlic to the hot bacon drippings in the skillet and sauté over medium heat for 30 seconds until fragrant.
8Add the blanched green beans, salt, and pepper, and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the beans are heated through and begin to blister in spots.
9Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and toss everything together for 1 minute over medium heat until well combined.
10Transfer the bacon green beans to a serving dish and serve immediately while hot.
For a lighter version, you can use turkey bacon and reduce the bacon drippings by wiping the skillet with a paper towel. Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for extra brightness.
Watch Video Of How Bacon Green Beans Works
This bacon green beans recipe is always a good idea for any occasion.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just want something easy to serve at your next family gathering, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
And with its simple preparation and minimal ingredients required, it’s also an excellent choice for weeknight meals when you need something quick but satisfying.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Bacon Green Beans
Q: What type of bacon works best in this recipe?
A: For this recipe, I recommend using thick-cut bacon because it holds up well to the high heat required for cooking. You can also use regular bacon if that’s what you have on hand.
Q: Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can use frozen green beans if that’s what you have available. Just be sure to thaw them first before cooking.
Q: How do I prevent the green beans from becoming mushy?
A: To prevent the green beans from becoming mushy, cook them until they’re just tender but still crisp. This will ensure they retain their texture while still being easy to eat.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time by preparing the ingredients separately and then assembling everything together before serving.
Q: What other ingredients can I add to give this recipe more flavor?
A: Some options for adding more flavor include garlic powder, onion powder, or even diced onions.
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