Smothered Green Beans are a delicious and comforting side dish that brings a touch of Southern charm to any meal. Tender green beans are cooked slowly with savory bacon, aromatic onions, and garlic, all smothered in a flavorful broth that infuses every bite with rich, hearty goodness. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or anytime you crave a warm and satisfying side dish.
Let’s dive into this simple yet flavorful recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients for Smothered Green Beans
- Fresh green beans: 1 pound, trimmed
Provides a fresh and crisp base for the dish. - Bacon: 4-6 slices, chopped
Adds a smoky, savory flavor and richness. - Onion: 1 medium, diced
Brings sweetness and depth to the dish. - Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Enhances the savory flavor with a fragrant aroma. - Chicken broth: 1 cup or enough to cover the beans
Creates a flavorful cooking liquid that tenderizes the beans. - Butter: 2 tablespoons (optional)
Adds extra richness and a silky texture. - Red pepper flakes: A pinch (optional)
Introduces a subtle heat and extra flavor dimension. - Salt: To taste
Enhances all the flavors in the dish. - Black pepper: To taste
Adds a hint of warmth and spice.
Instructions: How to Make Smothered Green Beans
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Trim and Wash the Green Beans:
- Rinse 1 pound of fresh green beans under cold water and trim off the ends. Set aside.
- Prepare the Bacon and Vegetables:
- Chop 4-6 slices of bacon into bite-sized pieces.
- Dice 1 medium onion and mince 2 cloves of garlic.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
- Render the Bacon Fat:
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy and has rendered its fat, about 5-7 minutes.
- Optional: If you prefer a less fatty dish, remove some of the excess bacon grease, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pan.
- Remove and Set Aside:
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the cooked bacon from the pan and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave the bacon grease in the pan for cooking the vegetables.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
- Cook the Onions:
- Add the diced onions to the pan with the bacon grease and sauté over medium heat until they become translucent and start to caramelize, about 5 minutes.
- Add the Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes:
- Stir in the minced garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Step 4: Add the Green Beans and Broth
- Combine Beans with Aromatics:
- Add the prepared green beans to the pan, stirring to combine them with the onions and garlic.
- Pour in the Chicken Broth:
- Pour 1 cup of chicken broth (or enough to cover the beans) into the pan. The broth should just about cover the green beans.
- Season the Mixture:
- Add salt and black pepper to taste, keeping in mind that the bacon and broth may already contain salt.
- Add Butter for Richness (Optional):
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of butter for added richness and a silky texture.
Step 5: Simmer and Smother
- Bring to a Simmer:
- Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce Heat and Cover:
- Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and let the beans cook slowly for about 20-25 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of tenderness. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Add the Cooked Bacon:
- In the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir the cooked bacon back into the pan to heat through and meld the flavors together.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer the smothered green beans to a serving dish and garnish with extra chopped fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness.
- Enjoy:
- Serve hot alongside your favorite main dishes like roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked fish. Enjoy the comforting and hearty flavors of this classic Southern side!
Cook’s Notes & Tips
- Choosing Green Beans: Fresh, crisp green beans yield the best results. You can also use frozen green beans if fresh ones aren’t available; just adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Bacon Alternatives: For a smokier flavor, consider using smoked ham hocks or turkey bacon. To make it vegetarian, omit the bacon and use olive oil instead, adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky note.
- Broth Options: Vegetable broth can be substituted for chicken broth for a different flavor profile or to make the dish vegetarian.
- Texture Preference: If you prefer your green beans with more bite, reduce the simmering time. For softer beans, cook a bit longer until they reach your desired tenderness.
- Adding Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms can be added along with the onions for extra depth and earthiness.
Variations of Smothered Green Beans
- Smothered Green Beans with Potatoes:
- Add diced potatoes to the pan along with the green beans for a heartier side dish. Ensure there’s enough broth to cook both vegetables until tender.
- Spicy Smothered Green Beans:
- Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño pepper along with the onions for an extra kick.
- Creamy Smothered Green Beans:
- Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream at the end of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Smothered Green Beans with Almonds:
- Toast a handful of sliced almonds and sprinkle over the finished dish for a crunchy texture contrast and nutty flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, smothered green beans can be made ahead and reheated when ready to serve. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
2. Can I freeze smothered green beans?
While it’s possible to freeze this dish, the texture of the green beans may change slightly upon thawing. If you choose to freeze them, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
3. What main dishes pair well with smothered green beans?
Smothered green beans are versatile and pair well with a variety of main dishes such as roasted chicken, grilled steak, baked pork chops, or even as part of a holiday feast with turkey or ham.
4. Can I use canned green beans for this recipe?
Fresh green beans are recommended for the best texture and flavor, but canned green beans can be used in a pinch. Reduce the cooking time significantly since canned beans are already cooked, and be cautious with added salt.
5. How can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
To make it vegetarian, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a vegan version, also replace the butter with a plant-based alternative or additional oil.
A Comforting and Delicious Side Dish
Smothered Green Beans are a timeless side dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. The combination of tender green beans, smoky bacon, and flavorful aromatics all simmered together creates a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it alongside a weeknight dinner or adding it to your holiday table, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
So gather your ingredients and enjoy the simple pleasures of this classic Southern favorite!