These Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans are a warm and comforting side dish. Cooked low and slow, they soak up all that delicious flavor from bacon and spices!
It’s like a hug in a bowl! I love how easy this recipe is; just toss everything in, and let the slow cooker do its magic. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are ideal for this dish as they are crunchy and flavorful. If you’re short on time, you can use canned green beans. Just rinse them well! I personally love the texture of fresh beans, but canned is a quick option.
Bacon: The bacon provides rich flavor and a nice smoky touch. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon works well too. Just keep in mind it won’t be as crispy but still tasty!
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth. A yellow or sweet onion works best. If you’re short on onions, shallots could be a great substitute. You can even use onion powder if that’s what you have.
Chicken Broth: Using low-sodium chicken broth enhances the flavor without too much salt. If you’re vegetarian, feel free to use vegetable broth instead. Water is fine too, but broth adds so much richness!
How Do I Make Sure My Green Beans Are Tender but Not Mushy?
Cooking the green beans in a slow cooker allows them to become tender over time, which is fantastic! However, it’s essential to know how to balance cooking time with texture.
- If using fresh beans, don’t skip the step of trimming them to 2-inch pieces for even cooking.
- Cook them low and slow for the best results, around 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. This slow cooking time helps develop flavors while keeping the beans tender.
- Always check for doneness a little early, especially if you prefer your beans with some bite.
Stir in apple cider vinegar just before serving to enhance the flavor without cooking it away. Enjoy your perfectly cooked Southern green beans!
Delicious Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces (or 2 cans of green beans, drained)
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp salt, adjust to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Estimated Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and then cook slowly for either 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in your slow cooker. It’s perfect for setting up in the morning and coming home to a wonderful smell!
How to Make It:
1. Prepare Your Green Beans:
If you’re using fresh green beans, start by trimming the ends and cutting them into about 2-inch pieces. If you’re using canned green beans, just drain and rinse them to remove any excess salt.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon and cook until it becomes crispy. This adds amazing flavor! Once done, use a slotted spoon to take the bacon out and place it in the slow cooker, keeping the bacon grease in the skillet for the next step.
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet with the bacon grease, add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until you can smell the lovely aroma. Transfer everything to the slow cooker with the bacon.
4. Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker:
Now, add your prepared green beans, the water or chicken broth, salt, black pepper, and if you like a bit of spice, the crushed red pepper flakes. Stir everything together to make sure the beans are coated in all that goodness!
5. Cooking Time:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for about 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know they are ready when the green beans are tender but still bright in color.
6. Finish Off your Dish:
Before serving, stir in the apple cider vinegar to give it a nice zing! Give it a taste, and feel free to add more salt or pepper if it needs a little extra flavor.
7. Serve:
Now you’re ready to enjoy your Southern green beans! Serve them warm as a delightful side dish that will complement any meal. Enjoy this comforting dish with family and friends!
This recipe delivers a comforting mix of smoky, savory, and slightly tangy flavors, making it a truly delicious dish for any occasion!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans! They’ll cook up nicely in the slow cooker. Just note that you may want to reduce the cooking time a bit since they’re already blanched.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can omit the bacon entirely or replace it with a plant-based bacon for a similar flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegetarian.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stove or in the microwave until they’re heated through.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Dish?
For sure! Feel free to add other vegetables like diced carrots or potatoes. Just keep in mind that they may require adjustments in cooking time, especially if they need longer to become tender.
