Nina Johnson
Southern Style Green Beans are the epitome of comfort food. Tender green beans simmered slowly with crispy bacon, sweet onions, and a touch of seasoning come together in a dish that’s savory, smoky, and totally satisfying. This classic side dish is a staple at Southern dinners, Sunday lunches, and holiday gatherings alike.
What makes these green beans unforgettable is the slow simmer that allows them to soak up all that bacon-infused flavor. Unlike the crisp-tender style of steamed beans, these are melt-in-your-mouth tender with that rich, home-cooked essence that feels like a warm hug from your grandma’s kitchen.
What Makes Southern Style Green Beans So Flavorful?
The key lies in the slow cooking process and the layers of flavor. Starting with bacon not only adds smokiness but also gives you the fat needed to cook the onions until they’re golden and sweet. Add fresh green beans, a splash of broth, and let everything simmer until it’s deeply infused with savory goodness. It’s a simple technique that yields big rewards in flavor.
Ingredients for the Southern Style Green Beans
Fresh Green Beans – Choose firm, bright green beans. These are the base of the dish and should hold their texture while absorbing flavor.
Bacon – Adds saltiness, smokiness, and that unmistakable Southern depth.
Yellow Onion – Sweet and aromatic, onions help create that comforting flavor profile.
Chicken Broth – Brings savory moisture to the beans and helps with the slow simmer.
Garlic Powder & Black Pepper – These seasonings are subtle but essential for that warm, well-rounded taste.
Butter (Optional) – A pat of butter at the end gives it a glossy finish and a touch of richness.
How To Make the Southern Style Green Beans
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Wash and trim the ends off your fresh green beans. Dice the onion and cut bacon into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions
Add the diced onion to the bacon fat and cook until soft and golden. This step builds the flavor foundation for the beans.
Step 4: Simmer the Beans
Add the green beans to the pot along with the chicken broth, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir gently and cover. Let the mixture simmer on low for about 45 minutes, or until the beans are tender and flavorful.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Add the crispy bacon back to the pot and stir in a pat of butter if using. Let everything sit for a few minutes to meld. Serve warm.
Serving and Storing Southern Style Green Beans
These green beans are best served hot and fresh, ideally as a side to classic mains like roasted chicken, meatloaf, or Southern fried pork chops. They also make a fantastic addition to holiday spreads.
To store leftovers, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or microwave until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep green beans from getting mushy?
Simmer them low and slow, and check for doneness. They should be soft but not falling apart.
Can I use canned green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, but reduce the simmer time to 15–20 minutes since canned beans are already soft.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Southern Style Green Beans taste even better the next day after the flavors have had more time to meld.
What can I use instead of bacon?
Smoked turkey or ham hocks are great substitutes if you’re avoiding pork.
Is butter necessary?
Not at all, but it adds a touch of richness. Feel free to leave it out for a lighter version.
Want More Side Dish Ideas?
If you’re craving more hearty and flavorful sides, here are a few favorites you’ll want to try:
- Funeral Potatoes: Creamy, Cheesy Comfort in Every Bite
- Cheesy Baked Tennessee Onions Recipe
- Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes and Veggies
- Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage
- Honey Butter Skillet Corn
Save This Pin + Share Your Results
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest side dish board so you can come back to it anytime.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you stick with bacon or try ham? Did you add a little spice?
I love hearing how you make these dishes your own. Have questions? Drop them below and let’s cook better together.
Find more of my daily recipe favorites on Pinterest here: Life with Nina Pinterest
Southern Style Green Beans Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
Description
Southern Style Green Beans are slow-simmered in smoky bacon drippings with sweet onions, chicken broth, and a touch of seasoning. The result? Tender, flavor-packed beans that bring Southern comfort to your table with every bite.
Ingredients
1 ½ pounds fresh green beans
4 slices bacon, chopped
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 cups chicken broth
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon butter (optional)
Instructions
1. Wash and trim the ends off the green beans. Dice the onion and chop the bacon.
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside.
3. Add diced onions to the bacon drippings and cook until soft and golden.
4. Stir in the green beans, chicken broth, garlic powder, and black pepper. Cover and simmer on low heat for 45 minutes.
5. Add the cooked bacon back into the pot and stir in butter if desired. Let sit a few minutes before serving warm.
Notes
Use fresh, firm green beans for the best texture and flavor absorption.
Don’t skip the onion step — it brings deep sweetness that balances the smokiness.
For a meat-free version, substitute bacon with smoked paprika and olive oil.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 460
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Unsaturated Fat: 4
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 9
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 4
- Cholesterol: 10
Keywords: green beans, southern green beans, bacon green beans, holiday side dish
