Green Beans With Onion and Bacon (Snap Beans)

Tender fresh green beans a.k.a. Snap Green Beans simmered with smoky bacon, onions, and seasonings for a classic southern side dish.

There's just something about a big pot of southern-style fresh green beans that feels like home. Simmered low and slow with smoky bacon, onions, and just the right seasoning, these beans are tender, flavorful, and full of that classic down-home taste. I bet this recipe brings back so many memories for you all as is does for me. I remember helping my grandmother snap these beans as a child.

They're often called "snap beans" because when you break them, you'll actually hear that crisp little snap. You can cook them whole, trim the ends off before cooking, or even snap them in half if you prefer smaller pieces. It just depends on how you like them!

Why You'll Love These Southern Green Beans

• Perfect for holidays, Sunday dinners, or weeknight meals.
• Pairs beautifully with soul food classics like cornbread, fried chicken, or mac and cheese.
• Even better the next day when the flavors have time to mingle.
• Nothing is better than cooking from scratch!

Ingredients You'll Need

• Fresh green beans (washed, trimmed, and snapped)
• Bacon (smoky and savory, the flavor base)
• Onion (chopped)
• Seasonings (salt, pepper, onion powder) - very simple
• Water or chicken broth (for simmering)

Instructions for this recipe

1. In a large Dutch oven or deep skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove, crumble, and set aside.
2. In the bacon drippings, sauté the onions until soft and fragrant.
3. Add the fresh green beans, seasonings, and water/broth. Stir well.
4. Cover and simmer until the beans are tender but not mushy, about 45 minutes to an hour.
5. Return the crumbled bacon to the pot, stir, and serve hot.

Variations

• With smoked turkey - Substitute the bacon for smoked turkey wings.
• With salt pork - For a deeper southern flavor, simmer beans with salt pork instead of bacon.
• Vegetarian version - Use butter or olive oil in place of bacon and simmer the green beans in vegetable broth.

Serving Suggestions

These beans pair perfectly with:

• Fried chicken or smothered pork chops
• Mashed potatoes or mac and cheese
• Cornbread or biscuits
• Holiday roasts and turkey dinners

Storage Instructions

Once cooled, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze for up to three months; however, they are best served fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make the green beans ahead of time?

Yes! These beans taste even better the next day. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Do I have to use bacon?

No - you can substitute smoked turkey, ham hock, salt pork or even cook them vegetarian with broth and seasonings.

Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, but for best texture and southern flavor, fresh beans are recommended.

How do I keep green beans from getting mushy?

Don't overcook the beans. Simmer the low and slow, just until tender. It is very important to check on them often.

Can I freeze the green beans?

I recommend only eating the green beans fresh for the best flavor.

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