Easy Green Bean and Bacon Recipe for Any Occasion

Ready to boost your cooking skills? Our green bean and bacon recipe is perfect for any event. It has 77 ratings and is easy to make. Green beans are full of fiber, vitamin C, and folate, making them a healthy choice.

This dish combines the crunch of green beans with bacon’s savory taste. It’s great for any meal, from holidays to weeknights.

Our recipe is not only tasty but also simple. It needs green beans, bacon, sweet onion, and butter. It cooks in 20 minutes and has 146 calories per serving. Try it out and find your new favorite green bean and bacon dish.

Introduction

Green beans and bacon have been a hit for ages. They mix the fresh taste of green beans with bacon’s smoky flavor. This makes a dish that’s both cozy and tasty.

Brief history of green beans and bacon as a classic combination

Early American cooks loved pairing green beans with bacon. They used what they had to make big, tasty meals. Bacon’s deep flavor goes well with green beans’ natural sweetness, making them a favorite in many dishes.

Overview of the dish’s popularity and versatility

Today, the best green bean and bacon recipe is still a top pick in the U.S. It’s great for a quick dinner or a big holiday meal. It works well with many cooking styles and flavors, keeping it a favorite on many menus.

Ingredients Overview: Choosing the Best for Your Green Bean and Bacon Recipe

Choosing the right ingredients is key for a simple green bean and bacon side that impresses. Fresh green beans are perfect because they stay crisp and colorful. This makes your dish both delicious and pretty to look at.

Fresh Green Beans vs. Canned Options

Fresh green beans give the best taste and texture. They are the top choice for a classic green bean and bacon casserole. For the best flavor, use about three pounds of fresh beans. If you choose canned, make sure to drain them well to avoid too much moisture.

Bacon Selection Tips

The type of bacon you pick really matters. Thick-cut bacon is best because it has a rich flavor and a nice texture. Choose high-quality bacon with few additives for the best taste.

Additional Ingredients

Add some fresh garlic, onions, and your favorite seasonings to make your dish even better. Garlic and onions add a deep flavor, while black pepper and kosher salt enhance the natural taste. A squeeze of lemon can also add a nice brightness.

Preparation Techniques: Prepping Green Beans and Bacon for the Recipe

Making a homemade green bean and bacon dish begins with prep work. Getting your ingredients ready right is key to a tasty meal.

Washing and Trimming Green Beans

First, rinse the green beans under cold water to get rid of dirt. Cut off the ends or trim the top 1/4 inch. Next, cut the beans into 1-2 inch pieces. This makes them cook evenly and taste better.

Cutting Bacon for Optimal Cooking

Cut the bacon into ½-inch pieces. This size ensures it cooks well and adds great flavor and crunch to your tasty green bean and bacon stir fry.

Precooking Bacon Methods

Precooking the bacon saves time and makes it crispy. You can microwave it on a paper towel-lined plate for 4-5 minutes. Or cook it in a skillet over medium heat until it’s golden. For more tips, check out this southern chow chow relish recipe.

Cooking Methods: Perfecting the Green Bean and Bacon Recipe

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s explore the best ways to cook them. Each method brings out unique flavors and textures. You can choose what fits your schedule and taste.

Stovetop Sautéing

For a quick and crispy result, sauté crispy bacon green beans on the stovetop. Start by cooking the bacon until it’s golden and crispy, then remove and set aside. In the same pan, add your green beans and sauté them in the bacon drippings for about 8-12 minutes. This method ensures the beans are flavorful and maintain a slight crunch.

• Heat bacon until crispy.
• Remove bacon and sauté green beans in drippings.
• Cook until tender yet crisp.

Oven Roasting

For those who prefer a hands-off approach, oven roasting is ideal. Preheat your oven to 375°F and spread the green beans and bacon on a baking sheet. Roast for 22-26 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the green beans are tender. This method enhances the natural sweetness of the beans while adding a smoky flavor from the bacon.

Slow Cooker Variations

If you’re looking for convenience, a slow cooker can work wonders. Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours. This method melds the flavors beautifully, resulting in roasted green beans and bacon that are tender and infused with rich flavors.

Flavor Enhancements: Taking Your Green Bean and Bacon Recipe to the Next Level

Make your holiday green bean side dish even better by adding different flavors. These ingredients not only make it taste better but also add depth to your garlic green beans with bacon.

Garlic and Onion Additions

Minced garlic and chopped shallots can really make your green beans taste better. Sauté them in the bacon grease. This way, every bite is filled with rich, aromatic flavors.

Seasoning Options

Try adding salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes to your dish. This mix adds a bit of heat and balances out the smoky bacon flavor. Your garlic green beans with bacon will be irresistible.

Sweet Elements

Add a bit of sweetness with brown sugar or honey. These sweet touches create a nice contrast. They turn your holiday green bean side dish into a favorite you’ll remember.

Classic Green Beans with Bacon Recipe

Ready to create a mouthwatering dish? Follow our easy steps to make one-pan green beans and bacon that’s perfect for any meal.

Step-by-step instructions

Start by cooking 2-3 slices of bacon in a large skillet over medium-low heat until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan. Add ½ cup chopped yellow onion and ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper to the drippings, sautéing until fragrant.

Toss in 1½ pounds of fresh green beans, coating them well with the flavorful mixture. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cover and let it cook on low for 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender.

Before serving, crumble the crispy bacon over the top. Your delicious southern-style green beans and bacon is ready.

Cooking times and temperatures

Ensure the bacon is cooked until browned for maximum flavor. Sauté onions and red pepper in the rendered bacon fat for about 5 minutes.

Simmer the green beans in chicken broth at low heat for 60 to 90 minutes. Maintain a gentle boil to achieve the perfect tenderness without losing their vibrant color.

Gourmet Variations: Elevate the Green Bean and Bacon Recipe

Want to make your green bean and bacon dish even better? These gourmet twists add special flavors that will wow your guests. They make your meal unforgettable.

Bourbon-Infused Green Beans and Bacon

Adding bourbon to your green beans and bacon gives a rich, smoky taste. The bourbon-infused green beans and savory bacon create a fancy side dish. It’s great for dinner parties.

Parmesan and Garlic Green Beans with Bacon

Make your green beans even better with Parmesan cheese and garlic. This adds a creamy and aromatic twist. It makes the dish more indulgent and tasty.

Pair these gourmet green bean dishes with a Black Manhattan cocktail recipe. This elegant drink has bourbon and amaro. It offers a smooth, robust flavor that boosts your dining experience.

Holiday-Specific Recipes: Green Beans and Bacon for Special Occasions

Make your holiday gatherings memorable with these festive green bean and bacon recipes. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving or Christmas, these dishes will add a delightful touch to your meal.

Thanksgiving Green Bean and Bacon Casserole

This Thanksgiving green bean and bacon casserole offers a savory twist on the classic side dish. The combination of crisp bacon and tender green beans creates a harmonious blend of flavors. This complements your turkey perfectly.

Christmas Green Beans with Bacon and Almonds

For Christmas, try green beans with bacon and almonds. The crunchy almonds add texture, while the smoky bacon enhances the overall taste. This dish is a standout on your holiday table.

To elevate your holiday spread further, consider pairing these dishes with a sophisticated black walnut manhattan recipe. This dark and rich cocktail enhances the flavors of your meal. It offers a perfect balance to the savory green bean and bacon dishes.

Health-Conscious Alternatives: Lighter Green Bean and Bacon Recipes

Enjoying a healthy green bean bacon recipe doesn’t mean you have to give up taste. By choosing smart substitutions and tweaks, you can make a dish that’s good for your health and still delicious.

Turkey Bacon Substitutions

Try using turkey bacon instead of regular bacon to cut down on fat. Brands like Oscar Mayer have tasty turkey bacon options. It’s a leaner choice, making your keto-friendly green beans and bacon a healthier option.

Reducing Fat Content While Maintaining Flavor

Using less bacon can greatly reduce the fat in your dish. To keep the taste rich, add more herbs and spices like garlic, onion powder, and black pepper. Adding balsamic vinegar can also enhance the flavor without adding extra fat.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings: Complements to the Green Bean and Bacon Recipe

You’ve made your green bean and bacon dish just right. Now, let’s find the best ways to serve and pair it. These ideas will make your meal unforgettable, whether you’re having guests over or just enjoying a quiet night.

Complementary Main Dishes

• Rotisserie Chicken: The savory flavors of rotisserie chicken go well with the crispy bacon in your green beans.
• Steak: A juicy steak adds richness to your meal, making it even better.
• Pork Tenderloin: The tenderness of pork contrasts beautifully with the crunchy green beans.
• Firm White Fish: Options like salmon or halibut offer a light and flavorful addition.

To round out your meal, pair with Southern cornbread for a complete meal. Its golden crust and soft interior complement the savory and crunchy green beans, creating a harmonious and satisfying plate.

Wine Pairings

Choosing the right wine can make your meal even more special. Here are some excellent choices:

For a special touch, try pairing your meal with a simple black manhattan recipe. This sophisticated cocktail complements the savory notes of your green bean and bacon dish perfectly.

Storage and Reheating Tips: Making the Most of Your Green Bean and Bacon Recipe

Don’t let your delicious green bean and bacon leftovers go to waste! Proper storage ensures you can enjoy this tasty dish for days.

Proper Storage Methods

• Store green bean bundles in the fridge within an airtight container for up to 24 hours before frying.
• Once fried, keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, freeze fried bundles in airtight packaging for up to 6 months.

Best Practices for Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 250ºF (120ºC).
• Place the green beans and bacon on a baking sheet.
• Reheat for 25-30 minutes to maintain crispness.

Repurposing leftovers can add variety to your meals. Try adding green beans and bacon to salads or as a topping for baked potatoes.

As you prepare or reheat your green bean and bacon dish, why not enjoy a black manhattan cocktail? Here’s a quick black manhattan recipe to complement your meal:

• 2 oz rye whiskey
• 1 oz Averna Amaro
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• 1 dash orange bitters
• Cherry for garnish

Combine the whiskey, Averna, and bitters in a mixing glass with ice. Stir well and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with a cherry and enjoy your black manhattan cocktail alongside your savory green beans and bacon.

FAQs

Here are some common questions to help you perfect your green bean and bacon dish. Plus, discover how to pair it with delightful cocktails.

How long do you cook green beans with bacon?

Cook green beans with bacon for about 8-12 minutes on the stovetop. This keeps them tender yet crisp. For a more tender result, slow-cook them for 1 to 1.5 hours.

Can I use frozen green beans for this recipe?

Yes, frozen green beans work well. Thaw them first and ensure they are well-drained. This helps maintain the dish’s texture.

How do I keep green beans crisp when cooking with bacon?

To keep green beans crisp, avoid overcooking. Sauté them until they are bright green and tender-crisp. You can also add them at the end of cooking bacon to prevent prolonged heat exposure.

What’s the best type of bacon to use with green beans?

Use thick-cut bacon for a hearty texture and rich flavor. It crisps up nicely and complements the fresh taste of green beans.

For a sophisticated meal, pair your green beans with an amaro Manhattan or an Italian Manhattan cocktail. These drinks enhance the savory flavors of the dish. An amaro Ciociaro cocktail adds a unique herbal touch.

Conclusion: Master the Art of Green Bean and Bacon Recipes

You’ve learned how to make a tasty green bean and bacon dish for any time. You know how to pick the best green beans and bacon. You also know how to cook them in many ways, like sautéing and roasting.

Try new flavors and ingredients to make your recipes special. Add brown sugar for sweetness or red pepper flakes for spice. These green bean recipes make your meals better and are good for you too.