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| Green Bean and Bacon Skillet |
There’s something undeniably comforting about a rustic country-style dish—simple ingredients, bold flavors, and a sense of warmth that feels like home. This Country-Style Green Bean and Bacon Skillet is exactly that kind of recipe. It combines crisp-tender fresh green beans, smoky bacon, caramelized onions, and a touch of garlic to create a hearty, savory side dish that pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, holiday meals, or even a simple weeknight dinner. The magic comes from the cast-iron skillet, which adds depth and richness you can’t get anywhere else. Let’s dive into this flavorful, cozy creation.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound (450 g) fresh green beans, trimmed
- 6–8 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional but recommended)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup chicken broth
- Optional garnish: red pepper flakes, fresh parsley, or crispy fried onions
1. Prepare the Green Beans
Start by washing and trimming your fresh green beans. For the best texture, leave them whole or cut them in half for easier eating.
Fill a large pot with water, bring it to a boil, and add a generous pinch of salt. Add the green beans and blanch them for about 3–4 minutes, just until they turn bright green and slightly tender.
Immediately transfer the beans to an ice bath to stop the cooking and preserve their color. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Bacon
Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook slowly until it becomes crisp and golden, stirring occasionally so it cooks evenly.
Once done, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate. Keep about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet and discard the rest, unless you prefer a richer, smokier flavor—your choice!
3. Caramelize the Onions
In the remaining bacon fat, add the sliced onions. Cook over medium heat for about 8–10 minutes, allowing them to soften and caramelize.
Stir occasionally and scrape up any bacon bits from the bottom of the skillet—these are packed with flavor.
Once the onions turn golden and fragrant, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, just until aromatic. Avoid browning the garlic so it doesn’t turn bitter.
4. Combine and Season
Add the blanched green beans to the skillet and toss them in with the onions and garlic. Add the butter and chicken broth, then sprinkle in salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
Let the mixture simmer for 4–6 minutes, allowing the green beans to absorb the savory flavors while remaining crisp-tender.
Stir in half of the cooked bacon. The other half will be used as a topping for added crunch.
5. Final Touches
Once everything is heated through and the broth has reduced slightly, taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Top the skillet with the remaining bacon, and if you want an extra kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes or add a handful of crispy fried onions for texture.
Serve the dish hot, straight from the cast-iron skillet for that true country-style presentation.
Tips for the Best Country-Style Green Bean and Bacon Skillet
● Use fresh green beans for the best flavor and texture—frozen beans won’t have the same crispness.
● Thick-cut bacon works best because it provides hearty bites and deeper smokiness.
● Smoked paprika elevates the dish with a warm, earthy flavor—don’t skip it if you enjoy smoky notes.
● If you want a creamier version, add 2 tablespoons of cream or a spoonful of sour cream at the end.
● For extra richness, sauté a handful of sliced mushrooms along with the onions.
● This dish reheats well—simply warm it in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Final Thought
This Country-Style Green Bean and Bacon Skillet is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create unforgettable flavors. It’s rustic, hearty, and satisfying, making it a staple dish for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings. Each bite brings together smoky bacon, tender green beans, and savory aromatics that feel like a warm hug from the countryside.
Bon appétit! 🥓🌿🍽️