Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans, but make sure to thaw them first. You’ll also want to reduce the cooking time slightly since frozen green beans are often pre-blanched.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Absolutely! You can make this dish vegetarian by skipping the bacon and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add olive oil to sauté the vegetables for additional flavor.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for the best results. You can also microwave the dish, but the texture may not be as crisp.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to refresh the dish and prevent it from drying out.

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Definitely. While baby potatoes are great for this recipe, Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work just as well. Just ensure they’re diced evenly so they cook thoroughly.

Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes with Bacon

Name: Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes with Bacon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
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; ½ teaspoon dried thyme; ½ teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional)

Ingredients

Scale

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
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil (optional)

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Instructions

Cook the Bacon: Start by heating a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, stirring occasionally. Once the bacon is crispy, remove it from the pan using a slotted spoon and set it aside, but be sure to leave those flavorful bacon drippings in the skillet.
Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet with the bacon drippings, add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, or until softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant but not burned.
Cook the Potatoes: Now it’s time to add the diced potatoes to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to brown slightly. This helps the potatoes develop a crispy exterior while softening inside.
Add Green Beans and Seasonings: Once the potatoes have started to brown, stir in the green beans. Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix, dried thyme, and dried rosemary over the veggies, then pour in the chicken broth. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Simmer: Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and let the dish simmer for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the potatoes and green beans are tender, absorbing all the delicious flavors from the broth and seasonings.
Finish the Dish: Finally, stir in the crispy bacon you cooked earlier. Give the dish a taste and adjust the seasoning with a little more salt and pepper, if needed.
Serve: Serve the dish hot, either as a hearty side or even as a main course. You can pair it with roasted meats or enjoy it on its own for a satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor.

Notes

Fresh vs. Frozen: If fresh green beans aren’t available, you can use frozen green beans. Just be sure to thaw them first and reduce the cooking time slightly.
Bacon Substitute: For a healthier alternative, you can use turkey bacon or even omit the bacon altogether and sauté the veggies in olive oil.
Add Cheese: For a cheesy twist, sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top before serving.
Spice it Up: If you like a bit of heat, feel free to add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the dish during the simmering process.

Author: Elina
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Side Dish, Main Course
Method: Skillet or Dutch Oven
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 250kcal
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 700mg
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 7g
Cholesterol: 25mg