Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes with Bacon: A Delicious Twist

Hey there, fellow food lovers! Today, I’m super excited to share a recipe that’s quickly become a staple in my kitchen—Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes with Bacon. It’s one of those dishes that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. The combination of crispy bacon, tender green beans, and flavorful potatoes, all tied together with a hint of ranch seasoning, is absolutely irresistible. Plus, it’s a great way to make veggies exciting for even the pickiest eaters!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s a hearty, flavorful side dish that’s perfect for pairing with your favorite main courses.
• The combination of green beans and potatoes creates a satisfying texture that’s hard to resist.
• With the addition of bacon and ranch seasoning, this dish is anything but boring!
• It’s a versatile recipe that can be adjusted based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes with Bacon recipe:

• Fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces.
• Baby potatoes, halved or quartered depending on their size.
• Crispy bacon, diced into small pieces for maximum flavor.
• A medium onion, finely chopped to add a touch of sweetness.
• Garlic, minced to bring out that aromatic flavor we all love.
• A packet of ranch seasoning mix to give it that signature ranch taste.
• Chicken broth to keep things moist and add depth to the dish.
• Dried thyme and rosemary for a herby, savory flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste, because every dish needs a little seasoning.
• Olive oil, just in case your bacon is lean and needs a little extra moisture.
• Red pepper flakes or hot sauce for those who like a spicy kick.
• Shredded cheddar cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
• Corn, carrots, or bell peppers if you want to add more color and texture.
• Fresh parsley, oregano, or basil for a bright, fresh garnish.

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s dive into how to make this mouthwatering Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes with Bacon. It’s easier than you think, and the result is well worth the effort!

Start by cooking the diced bacon in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Let it get nice and crispy—about 8-10 minutes. Once it’s done, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess fat. Don’t worry, the bacon will make a comeback later!

Next, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the same skillet. Cook over medium heat until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant—about 5 minutes. If your bacon was lean and didn’t leave much fat, you might need to add a tablespoon of olive oil to keep things from sticking.

Now it’s time to add the trimmed green beans and halved or quartered baby potatoes to the skillet. Stir everything together to combine with the onions and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let the veggies start softening up.

Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix, dried thyme, and dried rosemary over the vegetables. Stir well to make sure everything is evenly coated. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the green beans and potatoes are tender. You’ll know it’s done when the veggies are soft and the liquid has thickened into a rich, flavorful sauce.

Once the veggies are tender, it’s time to bring the bacon back into the mix. Add the crispy bacon back to the skillet and stir everything together. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. If you’re feeling extra fancy, sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top and let it melt into the dish for an extra burst of flavor.

Garnish with fresh parsley, oregano, or basil if you’re feeling fancy, and serve it up! This dish is perfect as a side, or you could even make it the star of the show if you’re in the mood for something hearty and satisfying.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Customize to Your Taste: This recipe is super versatile, so feel free to add your own twist. Whether it’s throwing in some diced bell peppers or adding a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top, make it your own!
• Use What You Have: Don’t have fresh green beans? No problem! Frozen green beans work just as well—just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, don’t be shy with the red pepper flakes or hot sauce. It adds a nice kick that complements the smoky bacon perfectly.
• Make It Ahead: This dish is a great candidate for meal prep. Cook it up, store it in the fridge, and reheat it when you’re ready for a quick and delicious meal.

How to Serve

This Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes with Bacon is a fantastic side dish that pairs well with just about anything. Here are a few ideas for what to serve it with:

• Steak: It’s one of the best side dish recipes for steak. The smoky flavor of the bacon pairs perfectly with a grilled steak.
• Chicken: Whether it’s roasted, grilled, or baked, this dish makes a tasty accompaniment to chicken.
• Roasted Vegetables: If you’re looking for more side dishes with vegetables, consider pairing it with some roasted veggies for a well-rounded meal.
• As a Main Dish: If you’re in the mood for something hearty, you could even serve this as the main course. It’s filling and flavorful enough to stand on its own.

Make Ahead and Storage

One of the best things about this recipe is how well it holds up. Here are a few tips for making it ahead and storing leftovers:

• Refrigerate: Cooked leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
• Freeze: If you want to freeze it, it’s best to do so before adding the bacon and cheese. Simply thaw and reheat when you’re ready, then add the bacon and cheese as a finishing touch.
• Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prep. Portion it out into individual servings and grab it on the go for a quick and delicious lunch or dinner.

And there you have it, folks! A delicious, easy-to-make recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. It’s packed with flavor, customizable to your tastes, and perfect for any occasion. So next time you’re looking for a tasty side dish that’s sure to impress, give this Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes with Bacon a try. Your taste buds will thank you!