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My Nana’s Famous Green Beans are the side dish my family never lets me skip. These green beans are simmered in bacon drippings with sweet onions and a splash of broth. They are comforting enough for Sunday supper and simple enough for a weeknight meal. Whenever I bring these to a potluck, the bowl is always scraped clean.
The first time I made these myself, I called Nana in a panic to make sure I got the bacon just right. Years later, I never need to look at a recipe. These green beans have that impossible to resist savory taste that always brings people to the table.
Ingredients
- Fresh green beans: Two pounds rinsed and trimmed make for the best texture and snap. Look for bright color and no wrinkles.
- Yellow onion: Adds gentle sweetness. Choose a firm onion without soft spots.
- Bacon: Adds salty richness. Go for thick cut if you want even more flavor.
- Chicken broth or water: Keeps the beans tender and soaks up all the bacon flavor. Use low sodium if you want to control the seasoning.
- Salt and pepper: These let you adjust the flavor at the very end. Taste before adding extra salt because bacon can be salty on its own.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Bacon:
- Cut your bacon into small pieces. Add to a heavy three quart saucepan over medium heat. Cook until the fat is fully rendered and the bacon is golden brown and crisp. This bacon fat is key for the best flavor.
- Sauté the Onions:
- Once bacon is cooked, add diced onions right into the pot. Sauté with bacon until onions are soft and translucent. This sweetens the onions and their flavor infuses the bacon drippings.
- Combine with Green Beans:
- Add green beans and sprinkle in some pepper. Stir really well so every bean is coated with the bacon and onion mixture. This step makes sure that every bean tastes like the bacon base.
- Add Broth and Simmer:
- Pour in chicken broth then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot. Let the beans simmer for at least thirty minutes and up to two hours. Stir every so often and check the liquid level so the beans do not burn.
- Season to Taste:
- Once the green beans are super tender and flavorful, taste the pot. Add more salt or pepper only as needed. Extra seasoning depends on the saltiness of your bacon.
- Enjoy:
- Spoon into a big bowl and serve hot as the perfect companion to roasted meats or holiday spreads.
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I think bacon makes these beans irresistible and every time the pot comes out, it reminds me of holidays at Nana’s table. My dad always sneaks a spoonful before dinner even starts. The savory bacon and sweet onion combination is what makes this side a favorite memory.
How To Store Leftovers
Keep any extras in a covered container in the refrigerator. These reheat well in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of extra liquid if needed. They will last about three days and taste just as good the next day.
Easy Ingredient Swaps
If you prefer, swap chicken broth for vegetable broth to make these beans meatless just leave out the bacon. Smoked turkey is a nice alternative for a lighter twist. Red onions add a little extra sweetness if you are out of yellow onion.
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Serving Suggestions
This dish shines next to roasted chicken pork chops or anything off the grill. Our family loves pairing them with mashed potatoes for a homey meal. They are a classic at Thanksgiving and Christmas but fit perfectly at a casual picnic too.
Southern Roots of This Recipe
Slow simmered green beans with bacon is a Southern tradition passed down from mothers and grandmothers. The extra cooking time gives the beans their signature soft texture and the smoky undertones of bacon are the hallmark of Southern hospitality. For me, they taste like my family's history in every bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen green beans can be used in place of fresh. Thaw and drain before adding, then cook as directed.
- → Do I need to add extra salt if using bacon?
Bacon is naturally salty, so taste before adding additional salt. Adjust seasoning at the end to your preference.
- → What type of bacon works best?
Thick-cut or classic bacon both work well. Choose a style you enjoy, as it flavors the entire dish.
- → How long should I cook the beans for?
Cook for at least 30 minutes to tenderize, but simmering up to two hours enhances flavor and texture.
- → Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Omit bacon and use vegetable broth. Sauté onions in olive oil for a meat-free variation.
- → How do I prevent the beans from burning?
Keep some liquid, like broth or water, at the bottom and stir occasionally to avoid scorching.