What are some comfort food recipes?Green beans smothered withAre side dishes really just a bowl of rice? I’m talking about that melt-in-your-mouth, creamy, savory goodness that just makes you want to curl up. What is your favorite TV show? I love these, but sometimes I crave them even more. My grandma used to make them every Thanksgiving, and now it’s my job to carry on the tradition (and I’m a mom). I know the pressure is on, but trust me, it’s ON! I’ve tweaked it just a little bit to make it my own, but it’s still got that magic that only Grandma can offer.
What is smothered green beans?
Alright, let’s break it down. Smothered green beans.What is a green bean cooked low and slow in sour cream? Think of it as green bean casserole’s cooler, more sophisticated cousin. What are some simple ingredients like green beans, onions, bacon? ), and some creamy goodness – and transforming them into something incredibly delicious. What’s the secret to smothering meat? The flavors have all melded together. Is this a soul-warming dish that’s easier to make than you’d think?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some good reasons to fall in love with someone?Green beans smothered with. First off, the flavor is out of this world! You’ve got the earthiness of the green beans, the savory smokiness of the bacon, and the creamy richness of the sauce, all working together in perfect harmony. It’s like a symphony in your mouth, I swear! And the best part? It’s ridiculously easy to make! I’m not kidding, this is one of those recipes that practically cooks itself. I usually throw everything in a pot, let it simmer while I work on other things, and BAM! Dinner is served. Plus, it’s pretty budget-friendly. Green beans are cheap, bacon is… well, worth every penny, and the other ingredients are pantry staples. This recipe is also super versatile. You can serve it as a side dish with just about anything, or even eat it as a light meal on its own. What I love most about this, though, is the memories it brings back. Every time I make it, I feel like I’m back in my grandma’s kitchen, surrounded by family and love. It’s comfort food at its finest!
How do I make smothered green beans?
Quick Overview
Making these Green beans smothered withWhat’s the process of sautéing bacon and onions, adding green beans and broth, and letting it cook? What is the best way to cook beans until tender? What is the magic of a touch of cream or half-and-half? What is a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sunday suppers?
Ingredients
What are the main ingredients?
* 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed. I prefer fresh, but you can use frozen in a pinch Just make sure to thaw them first!
* 4 slices bacon, chopped. Don’t skimp on the bacon! It adds so much flavor.
* 1 medium onion, chopped. Yellow or white onion works best.
* 2 cloves garlic, minced. Because everything is better with garlic.
* 1 (14.5 ounces) can chicken broth. Low-sodium is always a good idea.
* 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half. This is what makes it “smothered.” I’ve even used unsweetened almond milk before and it was still amazing!
For Seasoning:
* 1 teaspoon salt. Adjust to taste.
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Freshly ground is always best.
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder. Adds an extra layer of garlicky goodness.
What are some good Red Pepper flakes for a kick?
What are the step-
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. How do you remove bacon grease from a pot? Is bacon grease good for you?
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook in the bacon grease until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. What are some ways to burn garlic?
Step 3: Add Green Beans and Broth
Add the trimmed green beans and chicken broth to the pot. Cover and cook for 1 hour. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the green leaves turn brown. What is the best way to cook beans
Step 4: Stir in Cream and Bacon
Stir in the heavy cream (or half and half or almond milk) and cooked bacon. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve these Green beans smothered withWhat are some good side dishes to serve the next day?
What is the best way to serve it?
These What is the best way to s are incredibly versatile and pair well with so many things! It’s a fantastic side for pretty much any main course you can think of!
For a Classic Comfort Meal:Serve with roasted chicken or pork chops. The creamy green beans complement the savory meat perfectly.
What is a hearty dinner?What’s a match made in heaven?
For a Lighter Option:Can you serve them as a side dish with grilled fish or tofu? Is there any nutritional value to a meal?
For a Holiday Feast:What are some of the Best Thanksgiving appetizers?
Growing up, we always had these with cornbread. What is the best way to serve your favorite sauce? My husband loves them with a little bit of hot sauce on top – adds some nice kick!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Smothered Green Beans
Want to take your smothered green beans to the next level? Here are a few tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years:
Fresh vs. Frozen Green Beans: While fresh green beans are my preference, frozen green beans work just fine. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before adding them to the pot. This will prevent them from being too watery.
Bacon Perfection: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of bacon. Hickory-smoked bacon adds a deeper, smokier flavor, while maple-flavored bacon adds a touch of sweetness. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try using pancetta instead of bacon!
Creamy Dreamy Sauce: The key to a truly “smothered” sauce is the cream. I prefer heavy cream for its richness, but half-and-half works well too. You can even use milk or unsweetened almond milk for a lighter option. I tested it with almond milk and it actually made it even creamier!
Seasoning Secrets: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! Salt, pepper, and garlic powder are essential, but feel free to add other spices to taste. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick, while a dash of smoked paprika adds a smoky depth of flavor.
Simmer Time: The longer you simmer the green beans, the more tender they will become. I usually simmer them for about 20-25 minutes, but you can simmer them for longer if you prefer softer green beans.
Vegetarian Variation: Omit the bacon for a vegetarian option. Sauté the onions in olive oil instead of bacon grease, and add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
One mistake I made early on was not using enough broth. The green beans ended up scorching on the bottom of the pot! So make sure to keep an eye on the liquid level and add more broth if needed.
Storing and Reheating Tips
These smothered green beans are even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld together. Here’s how to store and reheat them:
Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend storing them at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacteria can grow quickly at room temperature.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the leftover green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before refrigerating them.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the green beans. Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Glaze Timing Advice: Since there is no glaze involved I would say reheat gently whether you refrigerate or freeze, do so at a low heat to keep from losing texture.
When reheating, you can add a splash of broth or cream to keep them moist. My family loves leftovers so this recipe is a lifesaver!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my grandma’s famous smothered green beans recipe! It’s a dish that’s close to my heart, and I hope it becomes a favorite in your family too. The combination of savory bacon, tender green beans, and creamy sauce is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s so easy to make, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. If you enjoy this recipe, be sure to check out my other comfort food favorites, like my creamy mac and cheese or my hearty beef stew. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how your smothered green beans turn out! Please leave a comment below and let me know what you think, and don’t forget to rate the recipe. And if you make any fun variations, be sure to share them with me!
