Country Ranch Green Beans 'n Potatoes with Bacon: A Hearty Southern Delight

If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make side dish, look no further than Country Ranch Green Beans 'n Potatoes with Bacon. This Southern-style dish is packed with smoky bacon, tender potatoes, and crisp green beans, all coated in a delicious ranch seasoning for a mouthwatering flavor boost. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, and holiday gatherings, this dish pairs well with everything from grilled meats to roasted chicken.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Easy to make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time. ✅ Rich in flavor – Smoky bacon, creamy ranch, and hearty potatoes create the perfect combination. ✅ Perfect for any occasion – Great as a side dish for BBQs, weeknight dinners, or festive meals. ✅ Versatile – Customize with different seasonings, cheeses, or veggies.

Ingredients

To prepare Country Ranch Green Beans 'n Potatoes with Bacon, you’ll need:

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed (or 1 lb frozen, thawed)

• 1.5 lbs baby potatoes, halved (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best)

• 6 slices bacon, chopped

• 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix

• 1/2 cup chicken broth (for extra flavor)

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt & black pepper to taste

• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)

• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra creaminess)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Wash and trim the green beans. Cut them into bite-sized pieces if desired.

2. Scrub the baby potatoes and cut them into halves or quarters, depending on size.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy.

2. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pan.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

1. Add the baby potatoes to the skillet with the bacon grease.

2. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned.

3. Pour in the chicken broth, cover, and let the potatoes steam for 10 minutes until fork-tender.

Step 4: Add the Green Beans

1. Stir in the green beans, butter, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, ranch seasoning mix, and black pepper.

2. Cover and cook for 5-7 more minutes, or until the green beans are tender but still slightly crisp.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

1. Stir the cooked bacon back into the skillet.

2. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

3. For a cheesy twist, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and cover for 1-2 minutes until melted.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

• Serve hot as a side dish with your favorite main courses like grilled steak, roasted chicken, or barbecue ribs.

• Garnish with extra bacon bits or fresh parsley for a finishing touch.

Tips for the Best Green Beans 'n Potatoes

• Use fresh green beans for the best texture, but frozen (thawed) can work in a pinch.

• Adjust the ranch seasoning to taste – use half the packet for a milder flavor or the whole packet for a bold ranch kick.

• Add extra crunch by topping with crispy fried onions before serving.

• Make it spicy by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra red pepper flakes.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients:

• Green beans are rich in fiber, vitamins A & C, and antioxidants.

• Potatoes provide potassium, fiber, and essential carbs for energy.

• Bacon adds protein and a delicious smoky flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe in the slow cooker?

Yes! Add all ingredients (except the bacon) to a slow cooker, cover, and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Stir in crispy bacon before serving.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

Can I use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon?

Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great leaner alternative and still adds great flavor.

Final Thoughts

Country Ranch Green Beans 'n Potatoes with Bacon is a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make side dish that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or a holiday gathering, this recipe will be a crowd-pleaser. Try it today and enjoy the perfect blend of smoky, creamy, and savory flavors!

Love this recipe? Share it with friends and family, and let us know your favorite variations in the comments!