Country Ranch Green Beans ‘n Potatoes with Bacon

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Description

This hearty dish marries the crispness of green beans, the earthiness of potatoes, and the savory richness of bacon, all enveloped in a tangy ranch seasoning.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound fresh green beans (Trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces)
  • 1 pound baby potatoes (Halved or quartered depending on size)
  • 6 slices bacon (Thick-cut preferred for extra flavor)
  • 1 medium onion (Diced finely)
  • 2 cloves garlic (Minced)
  • 1 packet ranch dressing mix (For seasoning)
  • 1 cup chicken broth (Preferably low-sodium)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (For sautéing)

Optional Garnishes

  • 1⁄4 cup parmesan cheese (Grated, for serving)
  • to taste black pepper (Freshly ground)

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

  1. Gather and Prep Your IngredientsStart by washing and trimming the ends off your green beans. Slice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are evenly sized to cook uniformly.Using a mix of red and white potatoes can add a lovely color contrast to your dish.

Cook the Bacon

  1. Crisp Up the BaconIn a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s crispy and golden. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, but keep the bacon drippings in the skillet.Don’t toss the bacon drippings! They’re a flavor goldmine for the next steps.

Sauté the Vegetables

  1. Infuse the Vegetables with FlavorIn the same skillet with the bacon drippings, add the potatoes. Cook for about 10 minutes until they start to soften. Add the green beans and sauté for another 5-7 minutes.Stir occasionally to ensure the potatoes and green beans absorb all that delicious bacon flavor.

Combine and Season

  1. Bring It All TogetherCrumble the cooked bacon and return it to the skillet with the vegetables. Sprinkle in ranch seasoning, stirring to coat everything evenly. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. A pinch of salt and pepper can elevate the flavors even more.

Serve and Enjoy

  1. Plate Your CreationTransfer the green beans and potatoes to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, if desired, and serve warm.This dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a hearty side.

Note

For the best flavor, opt for fresh green beans and small new potatoes, as they hold up well during cooking and absorb the ranch seasoning beautifully. Precook the bacon until it’s crispy, then set it aside to drain on paper towels—this keeps it crunchy when mixed in later. When cooking the green beans and potatoes, aim for a slight bite in the beans and tender potatoes; overcooking can lead to a mushy texture. Toast the ranch seasoning in the bacon drippings for a minute before adding the vegetables—this enhances the flavor, giving it a deeper, more robust profile. If you’re looking for a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño can add a nice kick to the dish. For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use a tablespoon of olive oil for sautéing. Smoked paprika can add a smoky flavor reminiscent of bacon. This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine or an iced tea with lemon, bringing out the earthy notes of the vegetables and the savory richness of the bacon. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to maintain the texture of the beans and potatoes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the potatoes rubbery.

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