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A delicious serving of Southern Green Beans is presented as the featured image for this recipe.

Perfect Southern Green Beans

These Southern Green Beans are simmered low and slow with smoky bacon and sweet onions for a soulful and comforting side dish. This recipe delivers tender, flavorful green beans that are sure to become a family favorite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and snapped
  • 4 slices thick-cut bacon, diced
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth low sodium preferred
  • 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 tablespoon butter optional

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Slotted spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Lid for pot or Dutch oven

Method
 

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving the bacon grease in the pot.
  2. Add the chopped onion to the pot with the reserved bacon grease. Cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the green beans, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the green beans are tender.
  5. Stir in the cooked bacon and butter (if using) during the last 15 minutes of cooking time.
  6. Taste the green beans and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Notes

For the best flavor, use fresh, firm green beans and thick-cut bacon. Cooking the green beans low and slow is key to achieving a tender texture and allowing the flavors to meld together. Leftover green beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a saucepan over medium heat. To make vegetarian, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth.