Smothered green beans are the ultimate comfort-food side dish. They combine tender green beans with a rich, savory-sweet sauce made with crispy bacon, brown sugar, and seasonings. Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast or a simple weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to elevate your table with its irresistible flavor and texture.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds fresh green beans (trimmed)
- 6 slices of bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
Steps to Make Smothered Green Beans
- Prepare the Green Beans:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Drain and immediately transfer the green beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again and set aside.
- Cook the Bacon:
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and let it drain on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sugar has dissolved and the sauce is bubbling.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- Add the green beans to the skillet and toss them in the sauce until fully coated. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the green beans to soak up the flavor.
- Stir in the crumbled bacon and cook for another minute.
- Serve:
- Transfer the smothered green beans to a serving dish. Serve warm and enjoy this flavorful side dish with your favorite main course!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Sweet and Savory Flavor: The combination of brown sugar, soy sauce, and bacon creates a deliciously balanced dish.
- Perfect Texture: The green beans are tender yet slightly crisp, offering the ideal bite.
- Simple Ingredients: With everyday pantry staples, this recipe is quick to prepare.
- Versatile Side Dish: Pairs beautifully with roasted meats, chicken, or even as part of a holiday spread.
Smothered green beans are a flavorful twist on a classic vegetable side dish. With their sweet and savory sauce and the addition of crispy bacon, these green beans are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at any meal. Make them once, and they’ll quickly become a favorite at your table!
