Sauteed Green Beans with Bacon
Crisp-tender green beans and savory bacon bits sautéed with onion and garlic. This classic Southern side dish is smoky, delicious, and comes together in one skillet for easy cleanup.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Cook the bacon until crisp
- a.In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 6-8 minutes until the bacon is browned and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, reserving about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet.
- 2
Sauté the aromatics
- a.Add the chopped yellow onion to the skillet with the bacon fat. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- 3
Sauté and steam the green beans
- a.Add the trimmed green beans to the skillet. Season with kosher salt and black pepper. Toss to coat in the fat and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn bright green and begin to blister.
- 4
Pour in the chicken broth
- a.Bring the liquid to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let the beans steam for 3-5 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of crisp-tenderness.
- 5
Finish and serve
- a.Uncover the skillet and increase the heat to medium-high. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing any remaining liquid to evaporate. Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and toss everything together. Serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best texture, use fresh, firm green beans. If you must use frozen, thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
- 2Don't overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure the beans sauté and blister rather than steam from the start.
- 3To ensure even cooking, try to use green beans that are similar in size and thickness.
- 4For a brighter flavor, squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice or a splash of apple cider vinegar over the dish just before serving.
- 5Blanching the green beans in boiling salted water for 2-3 minutes before sautéing will help them retain a vibrant green color.
Adapt it for your goals.
Nutty Crunch
Add 1/4 cup of toasted slivered almonds or chopped pecans along with the bacon at the end for a delightful crunch.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes with the garlic for a touch of heat.
Sweet & TangySweet & Tangy
Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of balsamic glaze or maple syrup during the last minute of cooking for a sweet and tangy finish.
CheesyCheesy
Sprinkle 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the green beans just before serving.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Green beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, helps maintain bowel health, and can contribute to a feeling of fullness.
Packed with Vitamins
This dish provides essential vitamins from the green beans, including Vitamin K for bone health, Vitamin C for immune support, and Vitamin A for vision.
Provides Satiety
The combination of fiber from the beans and protein and fat from the bacon helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied, making it a substantial side dish.
Frequently asked questions
This dish can be part of a balanced diet. Green beans are low in calories and high in fiber and vitamins. The bacon adds significant flavor but also fat and sodium. To make it healthier, you can use turkey bacon or use less bacon and supplement with a touch of smoked paprika for flavor.