This recipe for Smothered Green Beans with Potatoes is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines the savory goodness of bacon (or smoked sausage) with the earthy flavors of green beans and potatoes, all simmered in a rich, seasoned broth.
Ingredients
- 4 slices of thick-cut hickory-smoked bacon, chopped (or substitute with smoked sausage)
- ½ cup of sliced yellow onion
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1½ pounds fresh green beans, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 4 medium red potatoes, quartered
- Ground black pepper for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon:
- In a medium-sized Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp, about 10 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and let it drain on paper towels, keeping the drippings in the pot. If using smoked sausage, follow the same steps to render the fat.
- Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
- Add the sliced onions and minced garlic to the bacon drippings. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the onions are translucent, about 2 minutes.
- Add the Green Beans and Seasonings:
- Return the cooked bacon or sausage to the pot. Incorporate the beef broth, green beans, hot sauce, kosher salt, crushed red pepper, and ground black pepper. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and simmer. Stir occasionally, cooking until the green beans are tender, about 45 minutes.
- Cook the Potatoes:
- Increase the heat to medium and add the quartered red potatoes to the pot. Cook uncovered until the potatoes are tender, about 25 minutes.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Remove the pot from heat. Optionally, garnish with freshly ground black pepper before serving.
This dish is perfect for a comforting meal, bringing together a variety of textures and flavors that are sure to please any palate. Enjoy these smothered green beans and potatoes as a standalone dish or as a hearty side to complement your main course.