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Southern Green Beans Recipe: A Classic Southern Side Dish

A plate of tender Southern green beans slow-cooked with bacon and onions.
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Slow-cooked with smoky bacon, onions, and garlic, these Southern green beans are tender, flavorful, and the ultimate comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 slices bacon, diced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 lbs fresh green beans, trimmed
  • 3–4 cups chicken broth (enough to cover beans)
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (optional)
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • 1 ham hock or smoked turkey leg (optional for extra smokiness)

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pot.
  2. Add the onion to the bacon grease and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Remove and set aside.
  3. Add the green beans to the pot and pour in enough chicken broth to cover them. Stir in Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the ham hock or smoked turkey leg (if using). Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat, and let simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.
  4. Once the green beans are tender, drain excess broth and return the bacon, onion, and garlic to the pot. Stir in butter and cook for a few minutes over low heat. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  5. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Use fresh green beans for the best texture. Slow cooking enhances the flavor. Try different meats like ham hock or smoked turkey for variety.

Nutrition

Keywords: southern green beans, bacon, comfort food, slow cooked, easy side dish

Find it online: https://alexandrarecipes.com/southern-green-beans-recipe/