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Southern Green Beans with Bacon

A classic comfort food side dish that combines fresh green beans with crispy bacon for a savory, flavorful experience.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 180
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and snapped into 2-inch pieces Fresh beans are recommended for best flavor.
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped into 1-inch pieces Use quality bacon for better flavor.
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Do not burn the garlic.
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth Low sodium is preferred.
  • 1 cup water
Spices and Seasonings
  • 1 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional for spice.
  • 1 piece bay leaf Remove before serving.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon for 8-10 minutes until crispy.
  2. Remove half of the crispy bacon with a slotted spoon onto a paper towel-lined plate and set aside for garnish.
  3. Add the diced onion to the pot and cook for 4-5 minutes until translucent.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
  5. Add the prepared green beans to the pot and toss them to coat in the bacon fat.
  6. Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes, then add the bay leaf.
Cooking
  1. Pour in the chicken broth and water until it just covers the green beans.
  2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to maintain a steady simmer.
  3. Cover the pot and cook for 35-45 minutes, stirring occasionally until the beans are tender.
Finishing Touches
  1. Remove the bay leaf and taste for seasoning, adjusting salt and pepper as needed.
  2. If there's too much liquid, cook uncovered for a few minutes to reduce it.
  3. Serve topped with the reserved crispy bacon.

Notes

For an upscale touch, drizzle a balsamic reduction before serving. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.