Bacon Green Beans with Garlic - Crispy Southern Style
Fresh green beans sautéed in bacon grease with crispy bacon pieces and garlic create this classic Southern side dish. The bacon fat infuses the beans with rich, smoky flavor while maintaining their tender-crisp texture. Perfect alongside grilled meats, fried chicken, or holiday meals. This version balances the bacon's saltiness with the natural sweetness of fresh green beans, while garlic adds aromatic depth without overwhelming the dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Cook diced bacon in large pan over medium high heat until desired crispiness
- 2
Move bacon to separate plate
- 3
Drain excess bacon grease leaving approximately 2 tablespoons in pan
- 4
Add green beans and sauté until slightly brown and tender
- 5
Add minced garlic and cooked bacon
- 6
Cook for 1 minute then serve immediately
Tips
Watch closely while cooking green beans and add small amount of water if grease cooks off to prevent burning
Adjust bacon grease amount based on preference - more grease creates richer flavor
Cook green beans to your preferred tenderness level, typically 10-15 minutes for tender-crisp
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days in covered container
Green beans can be trimmed and bacon diced up to 1 day ahead
Serve immediately while hot for best texture and flavor
Common Mistakes
Don't overcook green beans to avoid mushy texture
Reserve enough bacon grease to prevent sticking but not so much that dish becomes greasy
Substitutions
high
FAQ
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, thaw and drain frozen beans first. Reduce cooking time since frozen beans are partially cooked and will become tender faster.
What if I don't have enough bacon grease left in the pan?
Add a small amount of oil or butter to prevent sticking. The bacon flavor will still infuse the beans from the rendered grease.
How long will leftovers keep in the refrigerator?
Store covered for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in microwave or skillet, adding splash of water if needed to prevent drying.