Country Ranch Green Beans ‘n Potatoes with Bacon

A delicious, hearty side dish packed with smoky bacon, tender green beans, and creamy potatoes all coated in a flavorful ranch seasoning. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or as a comforting addition to any meal

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1½ pounds baby potatoes (red or yellow), halved
• 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (1 ounce)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes and Green Beans

1. Wash and trim the green beans. Set them aside.
2. Halve the baby potatoes. If the potatoes are larger, quarter them to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5–7 minutes.
2. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels. Reserve about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

1. In the same skillet with the bacon grease, add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Cook the Potatoes

1. Add the halved potatoes to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with the ranch seasoning mix, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Stir to coat the potatoes evenly.
2. Cover the skillet and cook over medium heat for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender.

Step 5: Add the Green Beans

1. Once the potatoes are nearly cooked, add the green beans to the skillet. Stir to combine.
2. Cover and cook for another 8–10 minutes, or until the green beans are tender-crisp.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

1. Stir the cooked bacon back into the skillet with the potatoes and green beans. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh green beans and baby potatoes work best for texture and flavor.
2. Bacon Grease Alternative: If you prefer, you can use butter or additional olive oil instead of bacon grease.
3. One-Pot Cooking: For easier cleanup, use a deep skillet or a Dutch oven for this recipe.

Variations

1. Cheesy Version: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the dish just before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
2. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the ranch seasoning mix for some heat.
3. Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and cook the onions in olive oil or butter. You can add a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
4. Meaty Upgrade: Add cooked diced chicken or smoked sausage to make it a complete meal.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans. Just thaw them and pat them dry before adding them to the skillet.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare it ahead and reheat it in a skillet or microwave.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

4. Can I roast the ingredients instead?
Absolutely! Toss the potatoes, green beans, and onions with olive oil, ranch seasoning, and spices, then roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes. Add cooked bacon at the end.

Country Ranch Green Beans ‘n Potatoes with Bacon is a versatile and flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with almost any main course. The creamy potatoes, tender green beans, and crispy bacon, all coated in savory ranch seasoning, make it an irresistible addition to your meal rotation. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!