A simple, comforting side cooked slowly in a crockpot.
introduction
These Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans make an easy, savory side. They cook slowly so the beans soak up bacon, onion, and garlic flavors. This dish goes well with many mains, like a slow cooker BBQ chicken sandwich.
why make this recipe
Make this recipe because it is easy. You add ingredients to a slow cooker and walk away. The bacon and broth give deep, warm flavor. It is a good side for family dinners or holiday meals.
how to make Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
This is simple. Trim the beans and chop the bacon and onion. Put everything in the slow cooker. Stir, cover, and cook on low until tender. The long, slow cook time lets flavors mix well.
Ingredients :
2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed, 6 slices bacon, chopped, 1 onion, chopped, 4 cloves garlic, minced, 1 cup chicken broth, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions :
- In a slow cooker, combine the green beans, bacon, onion, garlic, chicken broth, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Stir well to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the green beans are tender and flavors are well blended.
- Serve warm as a side dish. Enjoy your comfort food!
how to serve Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
Serve warm in a bowl or on a plate beside meat or main dishes. These beans pair well with plain rice or mashed potatoes. They also taste good next to a slow cooker chicken and rice for a full, simple meal.
how to store Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
Let the beans cool to room temperature. Put them in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm on low in a pan or in the microwave until hot.
tips to make Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
- Trim the bean ends for even cooking.
- Cook on low for best texture and flavor.
- Taste and add a little more salt near the end, if needed.
- Use fresh green beans for the best color and snap.
variation (if any)
- Add a ham hock instead of bacon for a smokier taste.
- Use frozen green beans; reduce cook time and check for tenderness.
- Add a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end for a bright note.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen green beans?
A: Yes. Use frozen beans and check for tenderness sooner. They may need less time.
Q: Do I need to pre-cook the bacon?
A: No. Chopped raw bacon cooks in the slow cooker and gives flavor as it renders.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes. Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth. Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Q: How do I know the beans are done?
A: They are done when they are tender and easy to pierce with a fork but not mushy.
Conclusion
For another slow cooker green bean idea with a classic Southern touch, see Grandma’s Southern Crockpot Green Beans {Easy} – Key To My Lime.
Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
Ingredients
Method
- In a slow cooker, combine the green beans, bacon, onion, garlic, chicken broth, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Stir well to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the green beans are tender and flavors are well blended.
- Serve warm in a bowl or on a plate beside meat or main dishes.
- Pair with plain rice or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.