These Southern Style Green Beans are tender and tasty, cooked with a little bit of ham for extra flavor. They’re the perfect side dish to brighten up any meal!
I love how quick and easy they are to make! Toss them in a pot and let them cook while you whip up the main dish. Trust me, they’ll be the first to disappear at dinner! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Green Beans: These are the star of the dish! For a more accessible option, you can use frozen green beans. Just skip the initial washing and trimming step, but keep in mind they may need less cooking time.
Bacon: Bacon adds a wonderful smoky flavor. If you prefer a healthier option, turkey bacon works well too, or you can omit it for a vegetarian version and use a little olive oil instead.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics enhance flavor. If you’re out of fresh, onion powder and garlic powder can be handy substitutes. Use about 1 teaspoon of each for a similar taste.
Chicken Broth: You can swap this for vegetable broth if you want a vegetarian dish. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning since vegetable broth can vary in saltiness.
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a nice herbal note. If you don’t have fresh, dried thyme can work—just use a third of the amount, as it’s more concentrated.
How Do I Cook Green Beans Without Making Them Mushy?
Cooking green beans just right can be tricky! The goal is to have them tender but still crisp. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by blanching the green beans in boiling water for 2-3 minutes if you like them extra tender. Then, quickly place them in an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
- When you sauté them with bacon and aromatics, keep an eye on them while simmering. You want them to turn bright green and still snap when bitten.
- Make sure to cover the pan while they’re simmering. This traps steam and helps cook them evenly without overdoing it.
With these tips in hand, you’ll have perfectly cooked green beans every time! Enjoy your delicious Southern style green beans!
How to Make Southern Style Green Beans
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 sprig fresh thyme (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll spend around 40 minutes getting these delicious Southern Style Green Beans ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Green Beans:
Rinse the fresh green beans under cold water. Snap off the ends where the stem is attached and set them aside. This step ensures that they are fresh and clean before cooking.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook it until it turns crispy, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon pieces and set them aside, leaving the wonderful bacon fat in the pan.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pan with the bacon fat, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Keep an eye on it, so the garlic doesn’t burn!
4. Combine Everything:
Now it’s time to add the green beans to the pan. Toss the green beans into the mix, ensuring they are well coated with the flavors from the bacon, onions, and garlic.
5. Add the Liquid and Seasonings:
Pour in the chicken broth and add the sugar, salt, black pepper, and the sprig of thyme (if using). Stir everything to combine and let it come to a boil.
6. Simmer the Green Beans:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Let the green beans simmer for about 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. They should be tender but not mushy when done.
7. Finish Up:
After cooking, remove the thyme sprig if you used fresh thyme. Stir in the crispy bacon pieces to incorporate them back into the dish. If you want a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of butter and stir until melted.
8. Taste and Serve:
Give your green beans a taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve them warm as a delicious and flavorful Southern side dish that will surely impress your guests!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans! Just remember to thaw them first and reduce the cooking time by about 5-10 minutes since they are already partially cooked.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Adding a little olive oil for sautéing can still give you a delicious flavor profile.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Southern Style Green Beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stovetop or microwave before serving!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes, you can! Feel free to add diced potatoes, carrots, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is tender.