Finally, a side dish that delivers big flavor with zero fuss! These Southern Crockpot Green Beans are an absolute game-changer for any busy weeknight or a relaxed Sunday supper. Imagine tender green beans, infused with savory bacon and a rich, smoky broth, slow-cooked to perfection.
This recipe proves that incredibly delicious food doesn’t need to be complicated or steal hours from your precious schedule. Get ready to master the ultimate Southern comfort classic with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.
Why You’ll Love These Southern Crockpot Green Beans
- Effortless Cooking: Simply toss ingredients into your crockpot and let it do all the heavy lifting.
- Unbeatable Flavor: The slow cooking process allows flavors to meld beautifully, creating deeply savory Southern Crockpot Green Beans that everyone will adore.
- Healthy & Hearty: Packed with fresh vegetables, this dish offers wholesome goodness without sacrificing taste.
- Minimal Cleanup: One pot means less scrubbing, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal.
- Crowd-Pleaser: These Southern Crockpot Green Beans are a timeless favorite, perfect for family dinners or entertaining.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create the most mouthwatering Southern Crockpot Green Beans, start with quality ingredients. Fresh is always best, but don’t shy away from frozen if that makes your life easier – remember, smart shortcuts are key!
- Fresh Green Beans: 2 pounds, trimmed and snapped. Look for vibrant, crisp beans.
- Bacon: 6-8 slices, thick-cut, diced. This is the secret to that smoky, savory depth in your Southern Crockpot Green Beans.
- Onion: 1 medium, yellow, finely chopped. Adds a foundational layer of sweetness and aroma.
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic elevates every bite of these Southern Crockpot Green Beans.
- Chicken Broth: 2 cups, low sodium. Provides the perfect liquid for slow simmering and flavor infusion.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: 1 tablespoon. A touch of acidity brightens the dish and cuts through the richness.
- Smoked Paprika: 1 teaspoon. Enhances the smoky profile, even if you skip the bacon.
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, freshly ground. Season to taste.
- Salt: To taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon, adjust after cooking, especially if your broth or bacon is salty).
Substitutions & Variations
Note: This video is for demonstration purposes and may use a slightly different method.
Adaptability is a busy cook’s best friend! These Southern Crockpot Green Beans are incredibly versatile, allowing for healthy swaps and flavor twists that fit your lifestyle.
- For a Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Omit the bacon. Instead, use vegetable broth and add 1-2 teaspoons of liquid smoke to replicate that classic smoky flavor. You can also add a smoky plant-based bacon alternative if desired. Your Southern Crockpot Green Beans will still be incredibly flavorful!
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the slow cooker for Southern Crockpot Green Beans with a gentle kick.
- Add More Veggies: Diced potatoes, carrots, or even corn kernels can be added during the last hour of cooking for a heartier side.
- Herbaceous Twist: A sprig of fresh thyme or a bay leaf added to the crockpot while cooking will infuse an extra layer of aromatic deliciousness into your Southern Crockpot Green Beans.
- Different Fats: If you’re avoiding bacon, you can sauté the onions and garlic in a tablespoon of olive oil or avocado oil before adding them to the crockpot. This ensures your Southern Crockpot Green Beans don’t miss out on that initial flavor building.
If you’re looking for more adaptable meal ideas, check out Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage. This recipe also emphasizes versatility, making it perfect for your busy cooking routine.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Get ready for the easiest, most delicious Southern Crockpot Green Beans you’ve ever made. Follow these simple steps for perfect results every time!
- Prepare the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. This step is crucial for rendering the fat and achieving that rich flavor base for your Southern Crockpot Green Beans.
- Sauté Aromatics: Remove the crispy bacon with a slotted spoon, reserving 1-2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the skillet. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Combine in Crockpot: Transfer the cooked onion, garlic, and crispy bacon (reserving a little for garnish if you like!) to your 6-quart or larger slow cooker.
- Add Green Beans: Add the trimmed green beans to the crockpot.
- Add Liquids & Seasonings: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and apple cider vinegar. Sprinkle with smoked paprika, black pepper, and half of the salt. Give everything a good stir to combine all the ingredients for your Southern Crockpot Green Beans.
- Slow Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the green beans are tender to your liking. The longer they cook on low, the more developed the flavors of these Southern Crockpot Green Beans will become.
- Taste & Adjust: Before serving, taste your Southern Crockpot Green Beans and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt or pepper if desired. A final splash of apple cider vinegar can brighten the dish even further.
- Serve: Ladle out these incredible Southern Crockpot Green Beans and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
Want to elevate your Southern Crockpot Green Beans from great to absolutely unforgettable? Here are some pro tips from my kitchen to yours:
- Don’t Skip the Bacon Sauté: Cooking the bacon and then sautéing the aromatics in its rendered fat is a non-negotiable step. It builds a foundational layer of flavor that directly impacts the deliciousness of your Southern Crockpot Green Beans.
- Fresh vs. Frozen: While fresh green beans are ideal, high-quality frozen green beans work beautifully and save prep time. There’s no need to thaw them; just toss them into the slow cooker directly with the other ingredients. The cooking time for your Southern Crockpot Green Beans might be slightly shorter with frozen beans.
- Mind the Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth. This gives you control over the final salt content, allowing you to season these Southern Crockpot Green Beans precisely to your taste.
- The Vinegar Advantage: That tablespoon of apple cider vinegar is a secret weapon. It brightens the rich, savory flavors and prevents the dish from feeling heavy. Don’t omit it; it makes a huge difference in the complexity of your Southern Crockpot Green Beans.
- Tender, Not Mushy: Keep an eye on your green beans, especially towards the end of the cooking time. You want them tender, but still with a little bite, not completely mushy. Different slow cookers cook at different rates, so trust your judgment.
- Stir Occasionally: While not strictly necessary, giving your Southern Crockpot Green Beans a stir once or twice during cooking can help ensure even flavoring and tenderizing.
To elevate your culinary skills, don’t miss my Pumpkin Swirl Cheesecake Recipe. Just like the essential bacon sauté in the green beans, this cheesecake will impress your guests with its flavor balance.
Storage & Reheating Tips
These Southern Crockpot Green Beans are fantastic for meal prepping or enjoying as leftovers. Proper storage ensures they stay delicious and fresh.
- Cool Completely: Before storing, allow your Southern Crockpot Green Beans to cool down to room temperature. This prevents condensation and helps maintain freshness.
- Airtight Container: Transfer the cooled green beans to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate: They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors of these Southern Crockpot Green Beans often deepen overnight!
- Freeze for Longer: For longer storage, you can freeze the Southern Crockpot Green Beans. Place them in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat Southern Crockpot Green Beans gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, in the microwave, or even back in the slow cooker on the “warm” setting. If reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave, you might want to add a splash of extra chicken broth to prevent them from drying out.
What to Serve With This Recipe
These Southern Crockpot Green Beans are a versatile side dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of healthy and hearty main courses. They are a staple that complements so many meals.
- Grilled Chicken or Fish: A simple grilled lemon-herb chicken breast or baked salmon creates a balanced and light meal.
- Roasted Pork Tenderloin: The savory notes of the green beans perfectly complement a lean, juicy pork tenderloin.
- Quinoa or Brown Rice: Serve alongside a whole grain for a complete vegetarian meal or to add substance to any plate.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp, vibrant salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the Southern Crockpot Green Beans.
- Cornbread: Of course, you can never go wrong with a classic piece of fluffy cornbread to soak up all that delicious broth from your Southern Crockpot Green Beans!
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of a baked sweet potato is a fantastic counterpoint to the savory, smoky green beans.
For a delightful dessert that complements your Southern Crockpot Green Beans, consider trying my Easy Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe. Its creamy and rich texture pairs wonderfully with savory dishes, making for a well-rounded meal.
FAQs
Can I use canned green beans for this Southern Crockpot Green Beans recipe?
While fresh or frozen green beans are highly recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use canned green beans in a pinch. If you do, drain them well and reduce the initial cooking time significantly, as they are already cooked. Add them during the last hour of cooking, and be mindful of their sodium content when seasoning your Southern Crockpot Green Beans.
Do I need to soak the green beans before putting them in the crockpot?
No, there’s absolutely no need to soak fresh green beans for this Southern Crockpot Green Beans recipe. Simply trim the ends and snap or cut them into desired lengths. The slow cooking process with the broth will tenderize them perfectly.
Can I make these Southern Crockpot Green Beans ahead of time for a potluck?
Absolutely! These Southern Crockpot Green Beans are an ideal make-ahead dish for potlucks or gatherings. You can cook them completely the day before, then reheat them gently on the stovetop or keep them warm in your slow cooker on the “warm” setting. The flavors often improve overnight, making them even more delicious the next day.
Southern Crockpot Green Beans are a delicious and convenient dish that embodies the essence of comfort food. This savory side is often enjoyed in various Southern households and is known for its ease of preparation, making it a beloved classic in the culinary landscape, associated with Cajun cuisine.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
(Estimated for 8 servings)
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 7g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 3g |
| Sodium | 350mg |
Southern Crockpot Green Beans
- Total Time: 6-8 hours 20 mins
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Southern Crockpot Green Beans are a flavorful and easy side dish featuring tender green beans infused with savory bacon and a rich, smoky broth.
Ingredients
2 pounds Fresh Green Beans
6–8 slices Baco
1 medium Onio
4 cloves Garlic
2 cups Chicken Broth
1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar
1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
Salt to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy
- Remove the crispy bacon with a slotted spoon and reserve 1-2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant
- Transfer the cooked onion, garlic, and bacon to your slow cooker
- Add the trimmed green beans to the crockpot
- Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and apple cider vinegar. Sprinkle with smoked paprika, black pepper, and half of the salt. Stir well
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the green beans are tender
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
You can use frozen green beans instead of fresh for convenience.
Add additional vegetables for a heartier side dish.
For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 8mg