Name: Quick and Easy Southern Bacon and Green Beans Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh green beans, ends trimmed; 6 slices bacon, chopped; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 tablespoons brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 cup chicken broth (optional, for added flavor); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; Salt, to taste

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Introduction

This Quick and Easy Southern Bacon and Green Beans recipe combines the smoky flavor of bacon with tender green beans, sweetened lightly with brown sugar. It’s a comforting side dish that’s perfect for weeknights or holiday meals alike.

The dish shows a close-up of green beans cooked with pieces of crispy reddish-brown bacon and small bits of golden caramelized onions mixed throughout. The beans are bright green and shiny, coated with a light glaze that makes them look fresh and tender. The bacon pieces are scattered on top and between the beans, giving a mix of colors and textures—crispy edges and softer centers. The whole dish sits on a white plate against a white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound fresh green beans (ends trimmed)
6 slices bacon (chopped)
1 medium onion (diced)
3 tablespoons brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 cup chicken broth (optional, for added flavor)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste

Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crisp, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet.
Step 2: Add the diced onion to the skillet with the bacon grease. Cook until the onion is translucent and soft, about 3–5 minutes.
Step 3: Stir in the brown sugar, garlic powder, and black pepper with the onions. Cook for another 2 minutes until the mixture is fragrant.
Step 4: Add the green beans to the skillet. Toss to coat them in the onion and sugar mixture.
Step 5: Pour in the chicken broth (if using) and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the green beans cook until they are tender, about 15 minutes.
Step 6: Once the green beans are cooked to your desired tenderness, return the cooked bacon to the skillet. Stir well to combine and heat through for about 2 minutes.
Step 7: Season with salt to taste and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use olive oil or butter for sautéing, and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the spices for a subtle heat.
Use fresh green beans for the best texture, but frozen green beans can be used—adjust cooking time accordingly.
For extra flavor, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating can help maintain moisture.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of cooked green beans mixed with crispy bacon pieces and small bits of caramelized onions, all coated in a shiny glaze. The bright green beans are whole and slightly wrinkled from cooking, scattered evenly throughout the dish. The bacon pieces are dark reddish-brown, crisp, and chunky, with visible fat parts adding texture. The caramelized onions appear golden and soft, nestled between the green beans and bacon. The food is presented on a white plate against a white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans if fresh aren’t available. Just reduce the simmering time slightly, as frozen beans are usually partially cooked during freezing.

Is it necessary to use chicken broth?

Chicken broth adds extra flavor and moisture, but you can omit it or substitute with water or vegetable broth if preferred.