Delight your taste buds with this rustic and flavorful dish of Country Ranch Green Beans ‘n Potatoes with Bacon. Perfect for family meals or gatherings, this recipe combines tender green beans, hearty potatoes, and crispy bacon infused with the savory taste of ranch seasoning. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 pound baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 ounce)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Wash and trim the green beans, ensuring they’re free from tough stems. Halve or quarter the baby potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Chop the bacon into small pieces and set aside.
- Cook the Bacon: Heat a large skillet or deep sauté pan over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, stirring occasionally. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the pan.
- Sauté the Vegetables: To the same pan, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté in the bacon fat over medium heat until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Cook the Potatoes: Add the halved baby potatoes to the pan and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with smoked paprika (if using), black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Toss well to coat the potatoes in the seasoning. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Add Green Beans: Once the potatoes are nearly cooked, add the green beans to the pan. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth to help steam the green beans and deglaze the pan. Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix over the vegetables, tossing everything to combine.
- Cook Until Tender: Cover the pan again and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes, or until the green beans are tender but still slightly crisp. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
- Combine Bacon and Adjust Seasoning: Once the vegetables are cooked, return the crispy bacon to the pan and stir it in. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or black pepper as needed. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the Country Ranch Green Beans ‘n Potatoes with Bacon to a serving dish. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color, if desired. Serve warm as a side dish or a standalone meal.
This hearty recipe is a blend of savory, smoky, and creamy flavors that will satisfy everyone at the table. Enjoy the perfect balance of textures and tastes in every bite!