This Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes with Bacon recipe is a delicious, comforting side dish that combines the savory flavors of crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and green beans seasoned with ranch and aromatic herbs.
The dish is cooked in bacon drippings for extra flavor, with the onions and garlic adding depth to the hearty mix.
Finished with a simmer in chicken broth, this flavorful medley is perfect for pairing with your favorite main course.
It’s a wholesome, satisfying addition to any meal!
Ingredients:
1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
4 cups baby potatoes (or 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced)
6 slices bacon, chopped
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, if needed)
Instructions:
Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy.
Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.
Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet with the bacon drippings, add the diced onion.
Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Cook the Potatoes:
Add the diced potatoes to the skillet.
Cook, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes start to brown slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Green Beans and Seasonings:
Stir in the green beans, ranch seasoning mix, dried thyme, and dried rosemary.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes and green beans are tender.
Finish the Dish:
Once the vegetables are tender, stir in the cooked bacon.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve:
Serve the Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes hot as a hearty side dish.
This dish is perfect for a comforting side and pairs well with a variety of main courses.
To add variety to Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes with Bacon, you can substitute baby potatoes with sweet potatoes or red potatoes for a different flavor profile.
For a healthier twist, try using turkey bacon or a plant-based alternative while reducing the amount of bacon drippings.
Adding other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers can boost the color and nutrients of the dish.
To enhance the richness, you could sprinkle some shredded cheese or drizzle a bit of cream at the end.
For extra crispiness, finish the dish by roasting the potatoes and green beans in the oven after cooking them on the stovetop.
Make sure to season to taste and adjust the cooking time based on your choice of vegetables.
To store Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes with Bacon, first allow the dish to cool completely.
Transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, you can use the microwave or a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if the dish seems too dry.
For longer storage, you can freeze the dish for up to 2 months.
To freeze, place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.