Description of this recipe
Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes with Bacon is a delightful side dish that captures the heart of Southern cooking with its blend of fresh vegetables, savory bacon, and robust ranch seasoning. This dish not only boasts vibrant colors but also layers of flavor that make it an instant favorite at family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Why you will love this recipe
You will love this recipe for its simplicity and depth of flavor. The combination of fresh green beans and creamy baby potatoes makes for a satisfying texture. The addition of crispy bacon adds a smoky crunch, while the ranch seasoning brings a herby brightness that ties everything together. It’s a versatile dish that complements any protein beautifully, whether it’s grilled chicken, pork chops, or even just a slice of cornbread.
Introduction
When you think of comfort food, hearty side dishes often come to mind, and Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes with Bacon certainly fits the bill. This dish is all about using fresh ingredients and beloved flavors to create something that feels both familiar and special. Perfect for a weeknight family dinner or a holiday feast, it strikes the right balance between simple and significant. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its taste but in its ease of preparation. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious offering that everyone will love.
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)
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Make sure to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once the bacon is beautifully crispy, remove it from the skillet using a slotted spoon and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb the excess fat. Leave the drippings in the pan, as they will enhance the flavor of the vegetables.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Using the same skillet with the bacon drippings, add the diced onion. Cook the onion over medium heat until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. After the onion has softened, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant. This step really builds the foundational flavors for your dish.
Step 3: Cook the Potatoes
Add the diced potatoes to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir occasionally, allowing the potatoes to brown slightly, which will take about 5-7 minutes. This browning adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish. If your skillet seems too dry at this point, feel free to drizzle in a bit of olive oil.
Step 4: Add Green Beans and Seasonings
Once the potatoes have a lovely golden color, stir in the fresh green beans, ranch seasoning mix, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Give everything a good stir to ensure the ingredients are well combined. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. This will help the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Finish Cooking
Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and allow everything to cook for about 15-20 minutes. During this time, the potatoes should become tender, and the green beans should have a vibrant, bright color. Once the vegetables are tender, stir in the cooked bacon. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
COOKING Rating:
**** (4 Stars)
Serving Suggestions:
Serve Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes hot, as a comforting side dish that pairs exceptionally well with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even as a hearty accompaniment to a vegetarian main meal. It’s also perfect for potlucks and holiday celebrations where you want a dish that feeds a crowd without requiring hours of preparation.
Tips:
- Bacon Alternatives: If you prefer, you can substitute turkey bacon or a vegetarian bacon alternative for a lighter version of this dish.
- Make it Creamy: For a creamier texture, consider stirring in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
- Green Bean Variety: Feel free to mix in other vegetables such as carrots or snap peas based on your personal preference and availability.
- Seasoning Variation: If you want to add a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to enhance the flavors even further.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
30 minutes
Total Time:
45 minutes
Nutritional Information:
Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
Protein: 10g
Sodium: 650mg
Conclusion
Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes with Bacon is one of those recipes that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dining table. It’s all about the joy of cooking with fresh ingredients, and its comforting flavor makes this dish a family favorite. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Try it out next time you’re in need of a hearty side that doesn’t sacrifice on flavor or fun!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the bacon and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add some sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
2. How can I store leftovers?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
3. What can I substitute for ranch seasoning?
If you don’t have ranch seasoning, you can create a similar flavor by mixing dried herbs such as dill, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder to taste.
4. Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans, but make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess moisture before adding them to the dish for the best texture.
5. Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! You can add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce when combining the ingredients for an extra kick.
