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Smothered Green Beans

Smothered green beans simmer with chicken broth, onion, garlic, and crisp bacon until very tender. This easy skillet side is savory and packed with flavor in every bite.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 52 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 2 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 75
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 slices bacon thick-cut, chopped
  • 1 yellow onion medium, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1.5 lb fresh green beans trimmed
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 0.25 tsp kosher salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper

Equipment

  • 1 12-inch skillet with a lid

Method
 

  1. Cook the bacon in a 12-inch skillet with a lid over medium heat for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crisp.
  2. Transfer the bacon to a plate and leave about 1 tablespoon of drippings in the skillet.
  3. Add the onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
  4. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  5. Add the green beans, chicken broth, kosher salt, black pepper, and cooked bacon; stir to combine.
  6. Bring the broth to a simmer.
  7. Cover, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 35 to 45 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the beans are very tender.

Notes

For the most tender beans, keep the skillet covered and check doneness near the end of the simmer. Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days; freezing is not recommended because the beans can become mushy. Turkey bacon can be used as a lighter swap.