Are you looking for a quick and easy side dish that's bursting with flavor? Look no further! This Potato Bacon Green Beans recipe is the perfect complement to any main course, from grilled chicken to roasted pork. It's a simple yet elegant dish that's sure to impress your family and friends. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a healthy and delicious meal without sacrificing your precious time. Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound green beans, trimmed
- 1 pound small red potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Prep the Veggies: Begin by washing and trimming your green beans. Peel the potatoes (optional) and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Having everything prepped makes the cooking process much smoother.
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Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving the bacon grease in the pan. Set the crispy bacon aside.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the bacon grease and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Don't let the garlic burn!
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Add Potatoes and Green Beans: Add the potatoes and green beans to the skillet. Stir to coat them with the bacon grease and onion mixture.
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Season and Simmer: Pour in 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then add thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Add about 1/4 cup of water to the pan, cover, and reduce heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the green beans are bright green and slightly tender-crisp. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Combine and Serve: Once the potatoes and green beans are cooked, stir in the crispy bacon. Serve immediately as a delicious and satisfying side dish.
Tips for the Best Potato Bacon Green Beans:
- For extra flavor, use smoked bacon.
- If you prefer a crispier texture, increase the cooking time slightly and uncover the pan during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers.
- For a richer flavor, use chicken broth instead of water.
Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or parsley.
- Creamy Version: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche at the end for a creamy finish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Fiber: 3-5g
This delicious and easy Potato Bacon Green Beans recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. It's a healthy, flavorful, and versatile side dish that will become a family favorite. Enjoy!