Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
- Trim the Green Beans: Rinse and trim the ends of the green beans, then cut them into bite-sized pieces.
- Cut the Potatoes: Halve or quarter the baby potatoes, depending on their size, to ensure even cooking.
- Dice the Bacon: Cut the bacon into small pieces, about 1/2-inch wide, so they cook evenly and turn crispy.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
- Heat a Large Skillet: In a large skillet or cast-iron pan, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat.
- Cook the Bacon: Add the diced bacon to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until it becomes crispy and browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the Bacon: Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked bacon onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Leave about 2 tbsp of bacon drippings in the skillet for cooking the rest of the dish.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
- Sauté the Onions: In the same skillet with the bacon drippings, add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Cook the Potatoes
- Add the Potatoes: Add the cut potatoes to the skillet, tossing them in the bacon drippings, onion, and garlic mixture.
- Season the Potatoes: Sprinkle the ranch seasoning, smoked paprika (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepperover the potatoes.
- Add Chicken Broth: Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, and stir to combine.
- Cover and Cook: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let the potatoes cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 5: Add the Green Beans
- Add the Green Beans: Once the potatoes are nearly cooked, add the green beans to the skillet.
- Stir and Cook: Stir everything together, then cover the skillet again and cook for another 8-10 minutes, or until the green beans are tender but still slightly crisp.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if necessary.
Step 6: Finish with Bacon and Serve
- Add the Bacon: Stir the crispy bacon pieces back into the skillet with the green beans and potatoes.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor, then serve hot as a side dish or a main course.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultimate Comfort: The combination of bacon, tender potatoes, and ranch-seasoned green beans creates a comforting dish that is rich and satisfying.
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and simple steps, making it perfect for a busy weeknight or a last-minute dinner.
- Versatile: Serve it as a side dish with roasted chicken or pork, or enjoy it as a hearty, stand-alone meal.
- Packed with Flavor: The ranch seasoning adds a burst of tangy, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the smokiness of bacon and the creaminess of the potatoes.
Pro Tips
- Crispier Bacon: For extra crispy bacon, you can bake the bacon slices in the oven at 400°F (200°C) on a baking sheet for 12-15 minutes and then chop them before adding to the dish.
- Ranch Seasoning Substitute: If you don’t have a packet of ranch seasoning, make your own by mixing 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp dried dill, 1 tsp parsley, and 1/2 tsp salt.
- Add Cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle shredded cheddar or Parmesan over the top before serving for a creamy finish.
Final Thoughts
This Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes with Bacon is a delightful dish that brings Southern comfort food to your table. The combination of tender green beans, savory bacon, and perfectly cooked potatoes all enveloped in ranch seasoning is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether served at a holiday gathering or a weeknight dinner, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds!