Savory Green Beans and Potatoes with Crispy Bacon

Looking for a simple yet flavorful dish to bring to your table tonight? Look no further than Green Beans Potatoes Bacon! This recipe is a delightful combination of crispy bacon, caramelized baby potatoes, and tender green beans that will have your taste buds singing. It’s the perfect solution for those busy weeknights when you want something cozy and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

I stumbled upon this recipe when my garden was overflowing with green beans, and I needed a way to entice my kids to eat more veggies. Now, it has become a staple in our household and is always a hit around the dinner table. The vibrant colors and rich flavors of this dish make it a standout side that pairs perfectly with a variety of mains, from roast chicken to grilled steak.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a potluck gathering, Green Beans Potatoes Bacon is sure to impress. The smoky bacon, along with the earthy potatoes and fresh green beans, creates a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that will leave everyone craving more. So, grab a pan and let’s get cooking this hearty and satisfying dish that is bound to become a new favorite in your recipe collection!

Quick Benefits

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together fast and disappears even quicker.
• Versatile: Swap ingredients like potatoes or bacon for dietary preferences or seasonal variations.
• Hearty and Flavorful: The combination of crispy bacon, caramelized potatoes, and tender green beans creates a comforting and satisfying dish.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep ahead and store in the fridge or freezer for a convenient and delicious side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Savory Green Beans and Potatoes with Crispy Bacon Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights when you need a comforting meal on the table fast.
• Family Favorite: The combination of crispy bacon, caramelized potatoes, and tender green beans is a hit with both kids and adults.
• Versatile: You can customize this dish with different types of potatoes, bacon alternatives, and extra veggies for added flavor and variety.
• Colorful and Flavorful: Fresh green beans bring a pop of color and freshness to the dish, complementing the smoky bacon and savory potatoes.
• Meal Pairing: This dish makes a great side for a variety of main courses, from roast chicken to grilled steak or baked fish.
• Make Ahead: Prep ahead by assembling the ingredients and storing in the fridge or freezer. Roast just before serving for a hassle-free meal.
• Comforting and Satisfying: A hearty and simple crowd-pleaser that transforms weeknight veggies into a dish everyone will love.

Ingredients for Savory Green Beans and Potatoes with Crispy Bacon

Vegetables

• 1 pound baby potatoes, halved or quartered
• 1 pound fresh green beans, ends trimmed

Meat

• 4 slices bacon, diced

Pantry Items

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

Pro Tips for Savory Green Beans and Potatoes with Crispy Bacon

Pro Tip #1: To enhance the flavors of your Green Beans Potatoes Bacon dish, sauté the green beans briefly in the bacon grease. This step will ensure the beans are vibrant green, slightly tender, and full of flavor. Be careful not to overcook them to maintain their texture and freshness.

Pro Tip #2: While baby potatoes work perfectly for this recipe, don’t hesitate to use regular red or Yukon gold potatoes cut into similar-sized chunks as alternatives. These varieties will bring a buttery flavor that complements the smoky bacon and tender green beans well.

Pro Tip #3: For variations in flavor, consider using pancetta or turkey bacon for a similar smoky touch. If you prefer a vegetarian version, opt for smoked paprika and olive oil instead. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat in the oven to maintain the best texture. Prep ahead by roasting the potatoes and cooking the bacon in advance, then toss everything together and finish in the oven just before serving for a convenient and delicious meal.

How to Make Savory Green Beans and Potatoes with Crispy Bacon

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Potatoes

Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C). In a large bowl, combine baby potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, tossing until coated.

Step 2: Roast Potatoes

Place seasoned potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 20 minutes until lightly golden and tender.

Step 3: Render Bacon

Cook diced bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Reserve 1 tablespoon of rendered bacon fat in the skillet.

Step 4: Sauté Green Beans

Cook green beans in the skillet with reserved bacon fat over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beans are bright and tender-crisp.

Step 5: Combine and Finish Roasting

Combine roasted potatoes, sautéed green beans, and crispy bacon on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil, toss gently, spread evenly, and roast for another 10 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer the cooked vegetables and bacon to a serving dish and serve warm.

Storage Tips

After preparing this delicious Green Beans Potatoes Bacon dish, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, it is best to use a skillet over low heat to help retain the crispiness of the potatoes, as microwaving may make them soggy. While you can freeze this dish, keep in mind that the texture of the green beans may soften slightly upon thawing.

To add variety to this recipe, you can use Yukon gold or red potatoes instead of baby potatoes, offering a buttery flavor profile. If you prefer to omit pork, consider using diced turkey bacon or smoked almonds for a crunchy and smoky alternative. For additional veggies, toss in sliced red onions or bell peppers for extra sweetness. This versatile dish pairs well with a variety of main courses, such as roast chicken, grilled steak, or baked fish, making it a great addition to any meal.

For those looking to prep ahead, assemble all ingredients except for the final roast and store the dish tightly covered in the refrigerator or freezer. Allow the dish to come to room temperature before roasting as directed to ensure perfect results without sogginess. With minimal effort and fresh ingredients, this hearty and simple crowd-pleaser transforms weeknight veggies into a dish that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want to switch up the type of potatoes in this dish, Yukon gold or red potatoes cut into similar sizes as the baby potatoes will work beautifully. These varieties will offer a slightly different flavor profile, with Yukon gold potatoes being buttery and red potatoes adding a nice earthy taste to the dish.

For those looking to make this dish pork-free, you can easily substitute the bacon with diced turkey bacon for a similar smoky flavor. Another alternative is to add a sprinkle of smoked almonds for a crunchy texture and a touch of smokiness that complements the green beans and potatoes well. These substitutions will still provide that savory element that bacon brings to the dish.

If you’re looking to add more vegetables to this dish, consider tossing in some sliced red onions or bell peppers. These additions will not only contribute extra sweetness and flavor but also enhance the visual appeal of the dish. Adding these veggies can elevate the overall taste and texture, making it a more colorful and nutritious meal option.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the presentation of this comforting dish, consider serving it in individual mini cast-iron skillets for a rustic and charming touch. The sizzle of the hot skillet will add to the cozy appeal of the meal, making it perfect for family-style dining or a casual gathering with friends. You can also sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or crispy fried shallots on top for a burst of color and added texture.

For a creative twist, turn this classic recipe into a deconstructed salad by layering the roasted green beans, potatoes, and crispy bacon on a platter. Drizzle with a tangy balsamic glaze or a creamy lemon-dill dressing for a refreshing contrast to the smoky flavors. Garnish with some shaved Parmesan cheese or toasted pine nuts for a gourmet touch that will impress your guests and make this dish a standout addition to any meal.

FAQs for Savory Green Beans and Potatoes with Crispy Bacon

Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?

Yes, regular red or Yukon gold potatoes cut into chunks are great alternatives to baby potatoes in this recipe.

What can I use instead of bacon for a vegetarian version?

For a vegetarian version, you can try using pancetta or turkey bacon for a similar smoky flavor. Alternatively, you can omit the bacon and use smoked paprika and olive oil for a smoky taste.

How should I store leftovers of this dish?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best texture when reheating, it’s recommended to reheat in the oven.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can roast the potatoes and cook the bacon in advance. Simply toss everything together and finish in the oven just before serving for best results.

Conclusion

Green Beans Potatoes Bacon is a classic dish that never fails to bring comfort and satisfaction to the table. Its simplicity and heartiness make it a favorite among both adults and kids alike. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight side or a dish to impress at gatherings, this recipe is a winner.

With the versatility to swap ingredients and add personal touches, Green Beans Potatoes Bacon can easily adapt to your preferences and the season’s offerings. So go ahead, make it your own by experimenting with different vegetables, herbs, or proteins. The result will always be a delicious and wholesome meal that brings people together.

So the next time you’re in need of a flavorful and easy dish that celebrates the beauty of fresh produce, remember Green Beans Potatoes Bacon. It’s a timeless recipe that embodies the joy of simple cooking and sharing good food with loved ones.