Crock Pot Green Beans

This Crock Pot Green Beans recipe is a delightful twist on a classic dish, combining the smoky flavor of Turkey Bacon with fresh green beans and the sweetness of onions. Perfect for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or weeknight meals, this easy-to-make side dish brings comfort and flavor with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the work, infusing every ingredient with rich taste while you go about your day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply toss all the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do its magic.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of Turkey Bacon and savory broth creates an irresistible taste that complements any main dish.
• Versatile Side Dish: These green beans pair well with various proteins such as chicken, beef, or fish, making them a great addition to any meal.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients from fresh green beans and lower in fat thanks to Turkey Bacon, this dish is a healthier choice for your family.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a larger batch ahead of time for quick reheating during busy weekdays.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Crock Pot Green Beans, you will need a few essential tools to ensure everything runs smoothly in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Skillet
• Cutting Board
• Knife
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows for hands-off cooking and ensures that your green beans are tender and flavorful.
• Skillet: Use this to crisp up your Turkey Bacon before adding it to the slow cooker, enhancing its flavor.
• Cutting Board & Knife: Essential for efficiently chopping your onions and trimming your green beans.

Ingredients

This Crock Pot Green Beans recipe combines the smoky flavor of Turkey Bacon with the freshness of green beans and the sweetness of onions, all cooked to savory perfection in a slow cooker.

For the Dish

• 8 slices Turkey Bacon (chopped)
• 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 pound fresh green beans (trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 1 ½ cups vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

How to Make Crock Pot Green Beans

Follow these simple steps to create delicious Crock Pot Green Beans that everyone will love.

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chopped Turkey Bacon and cook until crispy.
3. Remove from pan and set aside on paper towels.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

1. In the same skillet, add diced yellow onion and minced garlic to the leftover bacon grease.
2. Cook for about 3 minutes until softened.
3. Transfer mixture to your crockpot.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

1. Add trimmed green beans, vegetable broth, butter, brown sugar (if using), Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to the crockpot.
2. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 4: Cook Your Green Beans

1. Set the slow cooker on high heat for 2 ½ hours.
2. After that time has passed, add in your crispy Turkey Bacon.
3. Cook for an additional 30 minutes before serving hot!

How to Serve Crock Pot Green Beans

Crock Pot Green Beans make a delightful side dish that pairs well with many meals. Their smoky flavor from Turkey Bacon and tender texture create a comforting addition to any plate.

With Grilled Meats

• Steak – The richness of grilled steak complements the savory green beans perfectly.
• Chicken – Roasted or grilled chicken provides a light protein that balances the flavors of the dish.

As Part of a Buffet

• Holiday Dinners – Serve alongside ham, turkey, or roast for festive gatherings.
• Potlucks – These green beans are easy to transport and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Rice Bowl – Serve over fluffy rice for a hearty, satisfying meal.
• Quinoa Base – The nuttiness of quinoa enhances the flavors while adding protein.

In Tacos or Wraps

• Taco Filling – Use as a filling in soft tacos for an interesting twist.
• Wraps – Combine with protein and veggies in wraps for a delicious lunch option.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Green Beans

To achieve the best results with your Crock Pot Green Beans, consider these key tips:

• Use Fresh Beans – Fresh green beans yield better flavor and texture than frozen varieties.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste before serving; add more salt or pepper if needed to enhance flavors.
• Cook on High for Flavor – Cooking on high brings out the smoky taste of the Turkey Bacon more effectively.
• Add Sweetness Wisely – If you like a hint of sweetness, include brown sugar but use it sparingly to not overpower other flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Green Beans

Crock Pot Green Beans can be complemented by many delicious side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes create a comforting contrast to the crunchy beans.
2. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread pairs beautifully with green beans, adding texture and flavor.
3. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw brings freshness and crunch to the table.
4. Roasted Carrots – Sweet roasted carrots enhance the earthy tones of the green beans.
5. Baked Macaroni and Cheese – The richness of mac and cheese is balanced by the savory notes of the beans.
6. Grilled Asparagus – Lightly seasoned asparagus adds color and sophistication to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Crock Pot Green Beans can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using stale ingredients: Always use fresh green beans and quality Turkey Bacon to enhance flavor. Freshness makes a big difference in taste.
• Skipping the bacon grease: The Turkey Bacon grease adds a savory depth. Don’t skip cooking the onions and garlic in it for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking green beans: Cooking them too long can lead to mushy texture. Stick to the recommended cooking times for perfectly tender beans.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Taste your dish before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, or even add more Worcestershire sauce as needed.
• Not allowing time for flavors to meld: For the best taste, let your Crock Pot Green Beans sit for a few minutes after cooking before serving. This helps flavors combine.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Crock Pot Green Beans

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months; however, texture may change slightly when reheating.

Reheating Crock Pot Green Beans

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish with a cover and heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power until hot, about 2-3 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Crock Pot Green Beans?

Crock Pot Green Beans are a delicious side dish made by slow-cooking fresh green beans with Turkey Bacon and savory seasonings.

How long do I cook Crock Pot Green Beans?

Cook them on high for about 2.5 hours, then add Turkey Bacon and continue cooking for another 30 minutes.

Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans, but adjust the cooking time as they may require longer to become tender.

What can I serve with Crock Pot Green Beans?

These green beans pair well with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or any comforting main dish like meatloaf or pork chops.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Green Beans are not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor thanks to the Turkey Bacon and aromatic seasonings. This recipe is versatile; you can customize it by adding other vegetables or spices according to your taste. Give it a try and enjoy this delightful side dish at your next meal!