Southern Crockpot Green Beans: A Comforting Southern Classic

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There’s something deeply satisfying about the rich aroma of slow-cooked green beans wafting through the house. Southern Crockpot Green Beans are the kind of dish that wraps you in warmth and tradition—especially when tender green beans are simmered low and slow with savory bacon. This isn’t just a side dish—it’s soul food, meant to be shared with the people you love around a table full of hearty, comforting flavors.

This dish is a staple at Southern family gatherings, church potlucks, and weeknight dinners alike. It takes simple ingredients and transforms them into something spectacular with the help of time and patience. The bacon infuses the green beans with smoky, salty goodness, while the slow cooking melds everything into a deeply flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth experience. Whether you’re preparing this for a holiday meal or just want to spice up your veggie routine, this crockpot wonder is easy, reliable, and downright delicious.

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Ingredients for Southern Crockpot Green Beans

• 2 pounds fresh or frozen green beans, ends trimmed
• 6–8 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: red pepper flakes for a little kick
• Optional garnish: chopped cooked bacon or crispy onions

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Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Begin by trimming the ends off your green beans if they’re fresh. If you’re using frozen green beans, no need to thaw—just ensure they’re separated. Chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces and dice the onion finely to help it blend seamlessly into the dish. Mince the garlic and set it aside.

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Step 2: Layer in the Crockpot

Add the green beans to the bottom of your crockpot. Scatter the chopped bacon and diced onion evenly over the top. Sprinkle in the minced garlic, followed by a generous pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. If you’re craving a hint of spice, this is where you can add a few red pepper flakes.

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Step 3: Add the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the green beans are mostly covered. The broth doesn’t need to drown the beans—just enough to help them simmer and soak up all the savory flavor. The bacon will release additional saltiness, so you can always adjust seasoning later.

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Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for about 3–4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the green beans are tender and have absorbed all the rich flavor from the broth and bacon.

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Step 5: Final Touches Before Serving

Before serving, give everything a gentle stir and taste for seasoning. You can garnish with extra crisped bacon on top or crispy fried onions for texture and a little crunch. Serve hot as a comforting side to any main dish—especially roast chicken, meatloaf, or ham.

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Storage Instructions

Southern Crockpot Green Beans store beautifully, making them an ideal make-ahead side dish. Once cooled, transfer leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave in a bowl covered loosely with a lid or damp paper towel, or warm them in a saucepan over medium heat until hot throughout.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked green beans in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating as usual. Note: the texture may soften slightly after freezing, but the flavor remains rich and comforting.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per 1-cup serving (approximate):

• Calories: 145
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 480mg

Nutritional values may vary depending on bacon type, broth, and portion size.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned green beans instead of fresh or frozen?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time by half since canned beans are already soft and may fall apart if overcooked.

2. What type of bacon works best for this recipe?

Thick-cut smoked bacon adds great flavor, but any kind works well—even turkey bacon for a leaner version.

3. Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth. Add a splash of liquid smoke or smoked paprika to mimic that Southern depth.

4. Do I have to use a crockpot?

No, you can simmer everything in a Dutch oven on the stovetop over low heat for 1–2 hours, stirring occasionally.

5. What can I serve with Southern Crockpot Green Beans?

They’re perfect with baked ham, fried chicken, meatloaf, or even over mashed potatoes for a cozy plate.

6. Can I prep this the night before?

Yes! Assemble everything in the crockpot insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, place it in the crockpot base and start cooking.

7. How do I make it spicier?

Add a chopped jalapeño or increase the amount of red pepper flakes. A splash of hot sauce at the end also kicks it up.

8. Will this recipe work with other veggies?

Sure! Try adding carrots, baby potatoes, or even corn for a twist. Just make sure to adjust the cook time as needed.

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