Green Beans and Potatoes

Name: Green Beans and Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 6 slices thick-cut smoked bacon, (sliced into ⅛-¼ inch slices ); ½ cup sweet yellow onion (finely diced); 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1 pound fresh green beans, (ends trimmed ); 2 cups chicken broth; 2 teaspoons onion powder; 1 ½ teaspoons fresh cracked black pepper; 1 pound baby red potatoes, (washed and cut into quarters); ½ teaspoon kosher salt

Green Beans and Potatoes is a hearty dish that was created to be easy to make, with tons of garlicky flavor. We added savory bacon to create a delicious side dish, so tasty you can even take it to a holiday potluck.

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Table of Contents

Green Beans and Potatoes Ingredients
Substitutions and Additions
How to Make Green Beans and Potatoes
Troubleshooting
How To Serve Southern Green Beans and Potatoes
How To Store Potatoes with Green Beans
Why This Green Beans and Potatoes Recipe Is The Best
Green Beans and Potatoes Frequently Asked Questions
Vegetable Side Dishes You’ll Love
JUMP TO RECIPE
Even More Recipes You’ll Love

Green Beans and Potatoes is a Southern style recipe that combines fresh, crisp green beans, tender baby red potatoes, and smoky bacon in one hearty and delicious dish. Ready in just 45 minutes, this recipe was designed to be a wholesome side dish for busy weeknights, but is tasty enough for Sunday dinner or even a special occasion.

Green Beans and Potatoes Ingredients

Green Beans and Potatoes raw ingredients that are labeled

The magic of this bacon, green beans and potatoes side dish lies in its simplicity. It’s a perfect side dish or even a main course for those who love comforting, homemade meals.

You’ll Need:

6 slices thick-cut smoked bacon, sliced into ⅛-¼ inch slices
½ cup sweet yellow onion, finely diced
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 lb fresh green beans, ends trimmed
2 cups chicken broth
2 teaspoons onion powder
1 ½ teaspoons fresh cracked black pepper
1 lb baby red potatoes, washed and cut into quarters
½ teaspoon kosher salt

Substitutions and Additions

Customizing your green beans, bacon, and potatoes recipe is easy. Here are some ideas in case you need to make some ingredient substitutions:

Smoked Bacon: Substitute smoked bacon with smoked turkey bacon or diced smoked ham. You may need to add a bit of olive oil when cooking the onion to prevent sticking.

Chicken Broth: You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.

Sweet Yellow Onion: If you don’t have sweet yellow onion, use any type of onion you have on hand. Red or white onions will work just as well, each bringing its own unique flavor.

Fresh Green Beans: While fresh green beans are ideal, you can use frozen green beans in a pinch. Just add them directly to the pot without thawing, and adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they become tender.

Baby Red Potatoes: Yukon Gold or fingerling potatoes can be used instead of baby red potatoes.

Minced Garlic: Garlic powder can be used if fresh garlic is unavailable. Use ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove of fresh garlic. Add it along with the onion powder to so it doesn’t burn.

How to Make Green Beans and Potatoes

Creating a delicious dish like green beans and potatoes is easier than you think. This recipe combines classic ingredients in a way that maximizes flavor and ensures a satisfying meal.

Follow these detailed instructions to achieve the best results.

STEP ONE: Add the sliced bacon pieces and finely diced onion to a large skillet, saucepan, or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Continue to stir to keep the onion and bacon from sticking to the pan. Cook until the bacon is browned and the onion is translucent.

PRO TIP:

Use a wooden spoon to stir the bacon and onion to prevent scratching your cookware.

STEP TWO: Add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant. Lower the heat to medium.

PRO TIP:

Be cautious not to overcook the garlic, as burnt garlic can give your dish a bitter taste.

STEP THREE: Add the green beans, chicken broth, onion powder, and cracked black pepper to the pan and stir to combine the ingredients together. Reduce the heat to medium and cover the dish with a lid. Continue to cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

PRO TIP:

Check the broth level occasionally and add a splash more if it looks like it’s evaporating too quickly.

green beans, chicken broth, onion powder, and cracked black pepper added to the pan

STEP FOUR: Remove the lid from the pan, add the quartered red potatoes, and stir to combine. Cover with the lid and continue to cook until the potatoes and green beans are fork-tender.

PRO TIP:

Cut the potatoes into even-sized pieces so they cook at the same rate.

STEP FIVE: Season with kosher salt. Stir the mixture together, then remove the pan from heat. Serve while hot.

PRO TIP:

Taste the dish before adding additional salt, as the bacon and broth already contain salt.

Troubleshooting

This recipe is straightforward, so it’s unlikely you’ll run into problems. However, since ingredients and appliances create variables, our recipe testers provided you with their best advice for making this green bean potato recipe.

Prepping the Green Beans: Snap the green beans in half if they are long (or in small pieces if you prefer). This makes them easier to eat and helps them cook more evenly.
Choosing the Bacon: We liked thick-cut smoked bacon for this recipe, but regular bacon can also be used if that’s what you have on hand.
Bacon sticking to the pan: Stir the bacon and onion frequently and use a non-stick or well-seasoned heavy bottomed pan.
Garlic Tip: Mince the garlic finely to ensure it distributes evenly throughout the dish and infuses it with flavor without overpowering any bites.
Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the potatoes and green beans recipe towards the end of the cooking time. They should be tender but not mushy for the best flavor and texture.

How To Serve Southern Green Beans and Potatoes

Green beans with potatoes and bacon is a side dish that fits in at just about any occasion. You can even serve it as a tasty main course on a busy weeknight or Saturday afternoon.

Here are some ideas to help you make the most of this tasty dish:

Classic Side Dish: Serve this recipe for green beans and potatoes alongside baked chicken, pork chops, or grilled steak kabobs. The savory flavor of the bacon and veggies complement the rich flavors of these meats perfectly.

Main Course: Pair this dish with a fresh garden salad and some crusty bread. The hearty potatoes and green beans are enough to make a filling meal.

Brunch Addition: Incorporate your potatoes and green beans into your next brunch spread. Serve it with scrambled eggs and toast for a satisfying meal.

In a Casserole: Transform leftovers into a casserole. Add a layer of shredded cheese on top and bake until bubbly and golden brown.

While this comfort food is ideal for a family meal, it’s also welcomed at holiday dinners, alongside turkey or a ham roast.

Follow this hearty meal with a light dessert like strawberry sorbet or lemon custard.

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How To Store Potatoes with Green Beans

Storing your green beans and potatoes recipe properly will help maintain its flavor and texture, making it easy to enjoy leftovers or prepare this dish in advance for a busy week.

MAKE AHEAD: While this recipe is best served fresh, you can make it ahead of time to save you stress on the day of serving. Prepare the dish as directed, then follow the refrigeration and reheating directions, below.

IN THE FRIDGE: Store your green beans and potatoes with bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days. Make sure the finished dish has cooled to room temperature before sealing it to prevent condensation, which can make the vegetables soggy.

IN THE FREEZER: Place the cooled green beans and red potatoes in a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag. It will last for up to two months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

HOW TO REHEAT: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat the dish gently. You can warm it on the stove top over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

If you prefer the microwave, place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for two to three minutes, stirring halfway through.

Why This Green Beans and Potatoes Recipe Is The Best

Our recipe testers agree, this easy side dish is one we’ll make again and again! Here’s why we think you’ll love it:

Comforting and Hearty: The combination of bacon, fresh green beans and potatoes makes it a satisfying meal for any time of the year.

Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike enjoy the familiar flavors of this dish.

Great for Leftovers: It stores well and tastes just as good, if not better, the next day.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, this dish fits right in.

Flavorful: The bacon and spices infuse the vegetables with a rich, savory taste we can’t get enough of.

Green Beans and Potatoes Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans. Just add them directly to the pot without thawing, and adjust the cooking time as needed.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Omit the smoked bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You may also need to add oil when cooking the onion.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure everything is cooked through.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

Peeling is optional. Leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients, but you can peel them if you prefer.

Can I use low-sodium broth?

Yes, using low-sodium broth is a good option. You can always add more salt to taste if needed.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the broth for an extra kick.

What should I do if my potatoes are not tender after the recommended cooking time?

If your potatoes are still firm, continue cooking for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking periodically until they are fork-tender.

Can I add cheese to this recipe?

Yes, sprinkling some grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese on top before serving can add an extra layer of flavor.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can make it vegan by omitting the bacon and using vegetable broth. Adding smoked paprika can give it a hint of smoky flavor.

Can I use canned green beans?

Fresh or frozen green beans are recommended for the best texture, but canned green beans can be used if drained and rinsed. Adjust the cooking time as they are already cooked.

How can I prevent the garlic from burning?

Add the garlic after the onions and bacon have cooked and reduce the heat to medium, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds to 1 minute.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients to serve a larger crowd. Make sure to use a larger pot to accommodate the increased volume.

Green beans and potatoes is a simple, hearty dish that brings together fresh ingredients and bold flavors. It’s both easy and satisfying. Enjoy this versatile recipe as a side or main course for any occasion!

a plate of green beans and potatoes with a fork

Vegetable Side Dishes You’ll Love

Green Beans and Potatoes

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Servings

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Ingredients

6 slices thick-cut smoked bacon, sliced into ⅛-¼ inch slices
½ cup sweet yellow onion finely diced
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 pound fresh green beans, ends trimmed
2 cups chicken broth
2 teaspoons onion powder
1 ½ teaspoons fresh cracked black pepper
1 pound baby red potatoes, washed and cut into quarters
½ teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions

Add the sliced bacon and finely diced onion to a 4-5 quart heavy-bottomed saucepan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Stir often to keep the bacon and onion from sticking for about 7-8 minutes until the bacon is browned and the onion is translucent.
Add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, 30 seconds to 1 minute. (Be cautious not to overcook the garlic to avoid a bitter taste.) Lower the heat to medium.
Add the green beans, chicken broth, onion powder, and cracked black pepper. Stir to combine. Reduce the heat to medium, cover with a lid and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove the lid from the pan and add the quartered red potatoes. Stir to combine. Cover with the lid and continue to cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes and green beans are fork tender.
Season with kosher salt and stir well. Remove the pan from heat and serve while hot.

Notes

Prepping the Green Beans: Snap the green beans in half if they are long (or in small pieces if you prefer). This makes them easier to eat and helps them cook more evenly.
Choosing the Bacon: We liked thick-cut smoked bacon for this recipe, but regular bacon can also be used if that’s what you have on hand.
Bacon sticking to the pan. Stir the bacon and onion frequently and use a non-stick or well-seasoned heavy bottomed pan.
Garlic Tip: Mince the garlic finely to ensure it distributes evenly throughout the dish and infuses it with flavor without overpowering any bites.
Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the potatoes and green beans towards the end of the cooking time. They should be tender but not mushy for the best flavor and texture.

Nutrition

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Proudly Prepared by the Spaceships Kitchen

This recipe was developed, tested, cooked and photographed by the Spaceships Kitchen. From our dinner table to yours, we hope you think it's out of this world!

Stephanie Keeping Publisher
Layne Kangas Marketing
Lenore Ortyl Editorial Director
Lexus Monroe Editorial Assistant

Green Beans and Potatoes

Green Beans and Potatoes Ingredients

Substitutions and Additions

How to Make Green Beans and Potatoes

Troubleshooting

How To Serve Southern Green Beans and Potatoes

Caesar Pasta Salad

Homemade Scalloped Potatoes

How To Store Potatoes with Green Beans

Why This Green Beans and Potatoes Recipe Is The Best

Green Beans and Potatoes Frequently Asked Questions

Vegetable Side Dishes You’ll Love