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Southern Green Beans with Bacon

Southern green beans with bacon simmer slowly in chicken broth until very tender, with crisp bacon and softened onion in every serving. This stovetop side dish is made in a Dutch oven for a savory, homestyle finish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 7 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 17 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 105
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 6 bacon slices, chopped
  • 1 yellow onion medium, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 lb green beans fresh, trimmed
  • 1.5 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 0.5 tsp kosher salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper

Equipment

  • 1 5-quart Dutch oven

Method
 

  1. Cook the bacon in a 5-quart Dutch oven over medium heat for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crisp.
  2. Transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate.
  3. Leave about 2 tablespoons of drippings in the pot.
  4. Add the onion and cook over medium heat for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
  5. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  6. Add the green beans, chicken broth, salt, and pepper, then stir to combine.
  7. Bring to a boil.
  8. Cover and reduce the heat to low.
  9. Simmer for 45 to 60 minutes, until the beans are very tender.
  10. Stir in the bacon.
  11. Serve.

Notes

For the best flavor, leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the Dutch oven. Refrigerate leftovers for 3 to 4 days; freezer-friendly. For a lower-sodium option, use unsalted chicken broth.