Southern Green Beans Recipe

Looking for the best Southern-style green beans recipe? This Southern Green Beans recipe is a must-try! Made with fresh green beans, savory bacon, onions, garlic, and a touch of Cajun seasoning, these tender beans are cooked to perfection in a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for family dinners, holidays, or any Southern-inspired meal, this easy recipe is packed with taste. Simmered to perfection and finished with butter, these Southern Green Beans will be the star of your next meal!

Ingredients

• 4 slices bacon, diced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 lbs fresh green beans, trimmed
• 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 cups chicken broth
• Optional: 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (see notes)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until almost fully browned.
2. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook for another 5 minutes until softened.
3. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the minced garlic, cooking for an additional 30 seconds.
4. Using a slotted spoon, remove the bacon and onion mixture and set aside. Keep the bacon grease in the pot, do not discard it.
5. Add the trimmed green beans to the pot, then pour in enough chicken broth to cover the beans. If using, add Cajun seasoning for an extra kick of flavor.
6. Bring the mixture to a low boil. Once boiling, cover the pot and reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the beans cook for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally.
7. Once the green beans are tender, drain the excess chicken broth, and return the bacon and onion mixture to the pot. Heat for 1-2 minutes.
8. Stir in the butter and season with salt and black pepper to taste before serving.

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Tips

• Use fresh green beans for the best flavor, but frozen beans can be used in a pinch.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Cajun seasoning adds a flavorful kick, but you can skip it if you prefer a milder dish.
• Don’t skip the bacon grease: It infuses the green beans with rich flavor, making them even tastier.

Variations and Substitutions

• For a smoky flavor, use smoked bacon or add a dash of smoked paprika.
• For a creamy twist, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese or sour cream at the end of cooking.
• Make it vegetarian: Skip the bacon and use olive oil or vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, Southern Green Beans taste even better after a day or two, as the flavors have more time to meld. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Q: How can I thicken the sauce?
A: To thicken the sauce, you can simmer the green beans uncovered for a few extra minutes after draining the broth. Alternatively, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the broth.

Serving Suggestions

Southern Green Beans are the perfect side dish for any Southern-inspired meal. They pair well with fried chicken, pork chops, cornbread, or mashed potatoes. You can also serve them with grilled meats for a hearty dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Southern Green Beans recipe is packed with flavor thanks to the bacon, onion, and garlic, making it a comforting and savory side dish. The long simmering time ensures the beans are tender and infused with all the delicious seasonings. With just a few simple ingredients, this dish is an easy way to add a taste of the South to any meal.