e560d0aa 0692 43c7 b17f b3eb4de863fc

Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans with Bacon

by

Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans with Bacon

Description

Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans with Bacon is a rich, savory comfort-food side dish made with tender green beans slow-cooked alongside smoky bacon, onions, and flavorful broth. This classic Southern recipe is hearty, simple, and packed with homestyle flavor, making it perfect for holiday dinners, BBQs, potlucks, or everyday family meals.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
  • 8 slices bacon, chopped
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Optional: red pepper flakes for heat

Instructions

  1. In a skillet, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving a little bacon grease in the pan.
  2. Sauté onion and garlic in the bacon grease for 2–3 minutes until softened.
  3. Add green beans to the slow cooker.
  4. Stir in cooked bacon, onions, garlic, chicken broth, butter, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
  5. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until green beans are tender and flavorful.
  6. Stir before serving and garnish with extra bacon if desired.

Notes

  • Fresh green beans give the best texture, but frozen work well too.
  • Bacon adds smoky depth and richness.
  • Cooking longer creates softer Southern-style green beans.

Tips

  • Add diced potatoes for a heartier dish.
  • Use turkey bacon for a lighter version.
  • A splash of apple cider vinegar adds brightness.

Servings

6 servings

Nutritional Info (Approx. Per Serving)

  • Calories: 180
  • Protein: 7g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Fiber: 4g

Benefits

  • Rich Southern comfort flavor
  • Easy slow cooker side dish
  • Great for holidays and gatherings
  • Budget-friendly ingredients
  • Pairs with many main dishes

Q&A

Can I use canned green beans?

Yes, but reduce cooking time since they are already soft.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, skip bacon and use vegetable broth.

How do I store leftovers?

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Can I freeze it?

Yes, freeze for up to 2 months.

What meals pair well with this dish?

Fried chicken, pork chops, meatloaf, BBQ, or roasted turkey.

Leave a Comment