Southern Green Beans with Bacon and Cajun Seasoning Recipe
This classic Southern Green Beans recipe brings together fresh green beans simmered slowly in savory bacon broth, accented with aromatic onion and garlic. The dish is enriched with bacon and butter, making it a comforting and flavorful side perfect for traditional Southern meals. Optional Cajun seasoning adds a subtle spicy kick for those who enjoy a bit more depth of flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 slices bacon, diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 lbs fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 1/2 – 3 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon and Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until it is almost completely browned. Add the finely chopped onion and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Lower the heat to low and add the minced garlic, cooking for 30 seconds until aromatic. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and onion mixture to a bowl, reserving the bacon grease in the pot.
- Add Green Beans and Broth: Place the trimmed green beans into the same pot with the reserved bacon grease. Pour in enough chicken broth to cover the green beans completely. If using, add the optional Cajun seasoning to the pot and stir gently to combine.
- Simmer the Beans: Bring the mixture to a low boil, then cover and reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Let the green beans cook for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the beans are tender and infused with the savory broth.
- Finish the Dish: Drain off the cooking broth from the green beans, then return the reserved bacon and onion mixture to the pot. Heat for 1 to 2 minutes to warm everything through. Stir in the butter until melted and well incorporated. Taste and season with additional salt and black pepper as needed before serving.
Notes
- If you prefer a spicier version, the Cajun seasoning adds a nice kick that complements the smoky bacon flavor.
- Cooking times may vary depending on the freshness and thickness of your green beans; cook until beans are tender but not mushy.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be gently reheated on the stovetop.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead, adding smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Keywords: southern green beans, green beans with bacon, southern side dish, slow simmered green beans, cajun green beans, comfort food
