Smothered Green Beans with Potatoes

Smothered Green Beans with Potatoes is a warm and comforting dish that brings homey flavors to your table. With fresh green beans, tender potatoes, and the savory goodness of bacon or smoked sausage, this dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Why Make This Recipe
You should make Smothered Green Beans with Potatoes because it’s a simple way to enjoy fresh vegetables. This recipe combines nutritious green beans and potatoes with savory bacon or sausage for a filling side dish. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be a great addition to any meal.

How to Make Smothered Green Beans with Potatoes
Ingredients:

• 4 slices thick-cut hickory-smoked bacon, chopped (or smoked sausage)
• 1/2 cup sliced yellow onion
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 1/2 pounds fresh green beans, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 4 medium red potatoes, quartered
• Garnish: ground black pepper

Directions:

1. Start by cooking the bacon in a medium Dutch oven over medium heat. Cook until the bacon is crispy, about 10 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and let it drain on paper towels. Keep the bacon drippings in the pot.
2. In the same pot with the drippings, add the sliced onion and minced garlic. Cook them over medium heat while stirring often, just until they are softened, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the bacon back into the pot. Then, pour in the beef broth, add the green beans, hot sauce, kosher salt, crushed red pepper, and ground black pepper. Bring everything to a boil.
4. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer. Stir occasionally until the green beans are tender and wilted, which should take about 45 minutes.
5. Increase the heat back to medium and add the quartered red potatoes. Cook uncovered until the potatoes are tender, around 25 minutes.
6. Before serving, you can sprinkle some additional ground black pepper on top if you like.

How to Serve Smothered Green Beans with Potatoes
Serve these tasty smothered green beans alongside your favorite meat dishes. They go well with grilled chicken, pork chops, or even a hearty steak.

How to Store Smothered Green Beans with Potatoes
If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for about 3 to 4 days. You can reheat them in a pot on the stove or in the microwave.

Tips to Make Smothered Green Beans with Potatoes

• If you want an extra layer of flavor, consider adding more herbs like thyme or rosemary.
• You can use green bean substitutes like fresh snap peas or even frozen green beans if you can’t find fresh ones.
• For a vegetarian option, you could swap the bacon for mushrooms for a smoky flavor without the meat.

Variation (If Any)
Instead of using bacon, try smoked sausage or even a vegetarian sausage for different flavors. You can also add other vegetables, like carrots or corn, to this dish to mix things up.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish in advance?
   Yes, you can make it ahead of time. Just reheat it when you are ready to serve.
2. Can I freeze Smothered Green Beans with Potatoes?
   Yes, but the texture might change after freezing. Store in an airtight container or freezer bag.
3. What can I serve with this dish?
   It pairs well with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even a simple baked fish.