The Zesty Bacon and Green Beans Recipe Every Family Loves

Crispy bacon weaves magic through tender green beans, creating a side dish that sparks instant comfort.

Savory aromas will drift from your kitchen, promising something special.

Farmers markets burst with fresh green beans during summer months.

Simple ingredients combine for maximum flavor in this classic recipe.

Salt and pepper play perfectly against smoky bacon notes.

Delicate vegetables get a rich, indulgent upgrade with just a few slices of crisp pork.

Come explore how two humble ingredients can become a mouthwatering companion to any main course.

Bacon and Green Beans: Simple and Delicious

• Boost Flavor Fast: Bacon transforms simple green beans into a mouthwatering side dish that packs a punch of smoky, savory goodness with minimal ingredients.
• Simplify Cooking: One-skillet method means less cleanup and faster preparation, perfect for busy home cooks who want delicious results without complicated techniques.
• Customize with Ease: Flexible recipe allows adding personal touches like red pepper flakes or lemon zest, making it adaptable to different taste preferences and dietary needs.
• Crowd-Pleaser Potential: Combines classic ingredients that appeal to both kids and adults, making it an ideal side dish for family dinners, potlucks, and casual gatherings.

Ingredients for Bacon and Green Beans

• Bacon: A savory, crispy element that adds rich flavor and texture to the dish.

• Green Beans, Onion, Garlic: Fresh vegetables that provide a nutritious and flavorful base for the recipe.

• Salt, Black Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes: Spices that add depth and heat to the dish.
• Balsamic Vinegar, Lemon Zest: Ingredients that bring brightness and tangy complexity to the final preparation.
• Butter or Bacon Grease: A flavorful cooking fat that helps develop the overall taste and texture of the vegetables.

How to Cook Bacon and Green Beans

Step 1: Sizzle Bacon to Crispy Perfection

Heat a skillet over medium temperature and cook bacon until it transforms into crispy, golden-brown strips.

Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.

Step 2: Caramelize Aromatic Base

Using the same skillet with leftover bacon drippings, saute finely chopped onions and minced garlic.

Stir continuously until the ingredients become translucent and release their fragrant aroma.

Step 3: Tenderize Green Beans

Add fresh green beans to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally.

Allow the beans to become tender-crisp, maintaining their vibrant green color and slight crunch.

Step 4: Elevate with Seasonings

• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Red pepper flakes
• Lemon zest

Gently mix the seasonings to distribute evenly throughout the green beans.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Crumble the crispy bacon and return it to the skillet.

Drizzle with balsamic vinegar, giving the dish a final toss to combine all flavors.

Transfer to a serving plate and enjoy while warm.

Pro Tips for Perfect Bacon and Green Beans

• Cook bacon slowly over medium heat to achieve perfect crunchiness without burning.
• Use bacon grease to sauté onions and garlic, enhancing the overall depth of taste.
• Cook green beans until tender-crisp to maintain a delightful crunch and vibrant color.
• Add lemon zest and red pepper flakes for a bright, spicy kick that elevates the dish.
• Utilize the same skillet for bacon and vegetables to maximize flavor and minimize cleanup.

Variations to Try with Bacon and Green Beans

• Low-Sodium Version: Replace bacon with turkey bacon or Canadian bacon. Use herbs like thyme or rosemary for flavor enhancement without extra salt.
• Vegetarian Swap: Substitute bacon with smoked tempeh or coconut bacon bits. Use olive oil instead of bacon grease for sautéing vegetables.
• Keto-Friendly Option: Keep original recipe as-is. Ensure bacon is nitrate-free and use full-fat butter for cooking to maintain ketogenic macronutrient ratios.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Verify bacon brand is gluten-free. Use tamari instead of balsamic vinegar to ensure no wheat-based ingredients are included.

Serving Suggestions for Bacon and Green Beans

• Fresh Family Dinner Plate: Pair this savory side dish with roasted chicken or grilled pork chops for a complete meal that brings everyone together.
• Brunch Brilliance: Serve alongside scrambled eggs and toast for a delightful weekend breakfast that adds excitement to your morning spread.
• Potluck Perfect: Transport this dish in a warm serving container to impress friends at gatherings, showcasing the crispy bacon and vibrant green beans as a crowd-pleasing addition.
• Elegant Plating: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or toasted sliced almonds to elevate the visual appeal and add an extra layer of texture and flavor.

Storing Bacon and Green Beans

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, removing excess air. Freeze for up to 2 months. Note that texture might slightly change upon thawing.
• Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to distribute heat evenly. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
• Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to ensure uniform warming.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen green beans for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans. Just thaw and drain them first to prevent excess water in the skillet.

• How do I know when the green beans are tender-crisp?

Green beans are tender-crisp when they’re bright green and slightly softened but still have a bit of crunch when you bite into them, usually after 4-6 minutes of cooking.

• What if I don't have balsamic vinegar?

You can substitute with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar for a similar tangy flavor profile.

• Is it necessary to use bacon grease, or can I use another fat?

While bacon grease adds rich flavor, you can use olive oil or butter as alternative cooking fats if preferred.

Bacon and Green Beans Recipe

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4.6 from 13 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Savory bacon and green beans delight diners with Southern comfort. Crisp bacon complements tender green beans, creating a classic side dish that satisfies hunger and warms hearts.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 6 to 8 slices Bacon (cut into small pieces)

Vegetables:

• 1 pound (454 grams) Fresh Green Beans (trimmed, washed)
• 1 small Onion (finely diced)
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)

Seasonings and Optional Enhancers:

• 2 tablespoons Butter (optional)
• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon Lemon Zest (optional)
• 1 tablespoon Balsamic Vinegar (optional)

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Instructions

1. Sizzle bacon in a skillet at medium heat until golden and crisp, transferring to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
2. Utilize the remaining bacon drippings to caramelize onions and aromatic garlic, stirring frequently until translucent and fragrant.
3. Introduce fresh green beans to the skillet, allowing them to dance and cook for 4-5 minutes, maintaining a vibrant green color and tender-crisp texture.
4. Elevate the dish’s flavor profile by sprinkling kosher salt, cracked black pepper, and a whisper of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
5. Optional: Enhance with bright lemon zest for a citrusy undertone.
6. Crumble the previously cooked bacon and gently fold into the green bean mixture.
7. Deglaze the pan with a splash of balsamic vinegar, creating a glossy, tangy finish that ties all the flavors together.
8. Transfer to a serving dish and present while warm, allowing the aromatic combination to tantalize taste buds.

Notes

• Bacon crispiness matters, so cook slowly and evenly, turning occasionally to prevent burning.
• Use thick-cut bacon for more robust flavor and substantial texture in the dish.
• For a lighter version, drain excess bacon grease and use olive oil instead to reduce overall fat content.
• Consider adding toasted sliced almonds or pine nuts for extra crunch and nutty undertones that complement the green beans perfectly.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 170 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 13 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 6 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 7 g
• Cholesterol: 25 mg