Easy Southern Green Beans

These Easy Southern Green Beans are slow-simmered in rich chicken broth with savory bacon, tender onions, and just a hint of garlic. Finished with a touch of butter and optional Cajun seasoning, they’re the perfect down-home side dish for any Southern-style meal.

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Ingredients

• 4 slices bacon, diced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 lbs fresh green beans, trimmed
• 2½ to 3½ cups chicken broth (enough to cover the beans)
• Optional: 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (see notes)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the Bacon and Aromatics
   In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until it’s nearly crisp. Add the chopped onion and continue cooking for about 5 minutes, until the onion is tender. Lower the heat, stir in the garlic, and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Remove and Reserve
   Using a slotted spoon, transfer the bacon and onion mixture to a bowl and set aside. Keep the rendered bacon grease in the pot for added flavor.
3. Simmer the Green Beans
   Add the green beans to the pot along with enough chicken broth to fully cover them. Stir in Cajun seasoning if using. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a low simmer. Cover and cook for 1 to 1½ hours, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender.
4. Finish and Serve
   Drain the remaining broth from the pot. Return the reserved bacon and onion mixture to the green beans and stir to combine. Add butter and cook for 1–2 minutes, until melted and mixed through. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Southern flavor—bacon, broth, and slow-simmered green beans make this dish taste like home.
• Simple ingredients and easy prep make this perfect for busy weeknights or holidays.
• Versatile side dish—pairs well with everything from roasted chicken to grilled steak.
• Customizable heat level with optional Cajun seasoning.

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Tips

• Use fresh green beans for best texture and flavor. Avoid canned or frozen for this particular recipe.
• Make sure to cook the bacon first—its drippings add deep flavor to the beans.
• Simmer the beans low and slow to get them tender without overcooking.
• For extra smoky flavor, use smoked bacon or add a dash of liquid smoke.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Swap Cajun seasoning for Creole, smoked paprika, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
• Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth to make it vegetarian—just omit the bacon.
• Add sliced mushrooms or diced tomatoes for extra texture and flavor.
• Use country ham or smoked sausage instead of bacon for a different Southern spin.

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FAQs

Can I use frozen green beans?
Fresh green beans are best for this recipe, but frozen can be used in a pinch. They may need a shorter cook time.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! These green beans actually taste even better the next day. Just store them in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.

Is the Cajun seasoning spicy?
It can be, depending on the brand. Start with ½ teaspoon if you’re sensitive to spice and adjust to taste.

What kind of bacon works best?
Thick-cut bacon gives a hearty texture, but any style works. For extra flavor, try applewood smoked.

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Serving

• Serve alongside roast chicken, pork chops, meatloaf, or Southern fried chicken.
• A great addition to holiday meals like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter.
• Pair with cornbread, mashed potatoes, or macaroni and cheese for a true Southern comfort spread.

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Suggestions

• Make a double batch—these green beans disappear fast!
• Add a splash of hot sauce or vinegar just before serving for a tangy twist.
• Toss in a handful of cherry tomatoes during the last 10 minutes of simmering for color and sweetness.
• Want it heartier? Add some diced cooked potatoes to the mix.