Best Southern Crockpot Green Beans Recipe

Southern-style crockpot green beans are more than just a side dish; they’re a comforting classic that elevates any meal. I first stumbled across this recipe during a family gathering, and the rich flavor and tender texture of the green beans created an unforgettable experience around the dinner table. With the smoky essence from bacon, the aromatic bite from garlic, and the warmth of chicken broth, this dish is simple yet packed with character. Whether it’s for a weeknight meal or a holiday feast, these southern green beans will have everyone asking for seconds.

What Makes This Recipe Special

Imagine a dish that marries simplicity with robust flavor—this is what makes this recipe stand out. It’s budget-friendly and incredibly easy to prepare. With minimal hands-on time, you can throw everything in a crockpot and let it work its magic while you tackle other tasks. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

"These green beans are a true crowd-pleaser! The bacon adds an incredible smokiness, and the spices give it a delightful kick. Every bite feels like a hug from grandma!"

Easy Cooking Guide

Making the best southern crockpot green beans is as straightforward as it gets. Start by rendering the bacon in a skillet—this simple step lays the foundation for rich, flavor-packed beans. Once your bacon is crispy, you’ll sauté the onions and garlic to bring out their natural sweetness. After that, it’s as simple as adding your ingredients into the crockpot, setting the timer, and letting it cook. As the beans simmer, they’ll absorb all those savory flavors for a delightful dish.

Gather Your Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful dish:

• 5 slices thick cut bacon – For that smoky flavor.
• 1 medium yellow onion (diced) – Adds sweetness and depth.
• 2 medium cloves garlic (minced) – Because more garlic is always better!
• 2 cups chicken broth (plus more if needed) – The base for cooking the beans.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt – A flavor enhancer that merges beautifully with the other spices.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper – A touch of heat.
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika – For color and mild spice.
• 1/4 teaspoon granulated sugar – A surprising balance to the savory elements.
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – Adds a gentle kick.
• 1 1/2 pounds fresh green beans (washed with ends trimmed) – The star of the dish!
• 1 Tablespoon butter – For that finishing touch of richness.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cut the bacon into 1/4-inch pieces and cook them in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon and set aside, reserving the grease in the skillet.
3. Add the diced onions to the skillet and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
5. Transfer the onion and garlic mix to your 6-quart crockpot, then discard the remaining bacon grease.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and add garlic salt, black pepper, paprika, sugar, and red pepper flakes. Stir it all together.
7. Toss in half of the cooked bacon and mix well.
8. Lay the green beans in the crockpot, ensuring they’re tightly packed and facing the same direction. If needed, add a bit more chicken broth until the beans are about 90% submerged.
9. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 4 hours. Taste after 6 hours on low to reach your desired tenderness.
10. Drain excess chicken broth and toss the green beans with butter and the remaining bacon. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Best Way to Serve

These southern crockpot green beans are incredibly versatile. They make the perfect side dish for grilled meats, roasted chicken, or barbecued ribs. Consider pairing them with cornbread or creamy mashed potatoes for a true Southern feast. Their vibrant green color also makes for an eye-catching presentation on your dinner table.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers (though it’s hard to imagine!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in a skillet on the stovetop or microwave until heated through. If you prefer to make this dish ahead of time, it freezes well; just make sure to cool it entirely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Remember, proper food handling is essential for safety!

Pro Chef Tips

• For extra richness, try adding a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end for a bit of tang.
• If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can easily replace the bacon with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for that same depth of flavor.
• Don’t rush the cooking process—letting the beans simmer slowly allows more flavors to develop, creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to experiment! You can toss in some sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor, or add diced tomatoes for a pop of color and acidity. If you’re looking to spice things up, throw in some diced jalapeños or use spicier red pepper flakes. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility, making it easy to customize to your family’s taste preferences.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to make southern crockpot green beans?

The overall cooking time is approximately 6-7 hours on low or 4 hours on high, plus a bit of prep time.

Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, frozen green beans can be used; however, fresh beans will yield the best texture and flavor.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To ensure this dish is gluten-free, just use a gluten-free chicken broth.

With this guide, you’re all set to make the best southern crockpot green beans that will bring joy and flavor to your table! Enjoy every bite!

Southern Crockpot Green Beans

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• Total Time: 375 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Omnivore

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Description

A comforting Southern-style dish featuring smoky bacon and tender green beans, perfect for any meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 5 slices thick cut bacon
• 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
• 2 medium cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 cups chicken broth (plus more if needed)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 1/2 pounds fresh green beans (washed with ends trimmed)
• 1 Tablespoon butter

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Instructions

1. Cut the bacon into 1/4-inch pieces and cook in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon and set aside, reserving the grease in the skillet.
3. Add the diced onions to the skillet and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
5. Transfer the onion and garlic mix to your 6-quart crockpot, then discard the remaining bacon grease.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and add garlic salt, black pepper, paprika, sugar, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
7. Toss in half of the cooked bacon and mix well.
8. Lay the green beans in the crockpot, ensuring they’re tightly packed. Add more chicken broth as needed until the beans are about 90% submerged.
9. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 4 hours. Taste after 6 hours on low to check tenderness.
10. Drain excess chicken broth and toss the green beans with butter and remaining bacon. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Notes

These green beans are great with grilled meats or cornbread. They can be frozen for later use.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 360 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Crockpot
• Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: crockpot, green beans, southern recipe, easy side dish, comfort food