Crock Pot Green Beans

Crock Pot Green Beans are a delightful side dish that everyone will love. This recipe combines the rich, smoky flavor of Turkey Bacon with fresh green beans and sweet onions, creating a savory mix that is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner, holiday gathering, or potluck, these slow-cooked green beans will impress guests and bring comfort to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time, you can set up your Crock Pot and let it do the work for you.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of Turkey Bacon and seasonings results in a deep, savory flavor that enhances the freshness of the green beans.
• Versatile Side Dish: These green beans pair perfectly with a variety of main courses, from roasted meats to vegetarian dishes.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients and lower in fat than traditional bacon recipes, this dish is a healthier choice for side dishes.
• Great for Meal Prep: Cook once and enjoy throughout the week; leftovers taste just as good!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make things easier. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Essential for achieving that tender texture while infusing flavors over time.
• Skillet: Perfect for crisping up Turkey Bacon before it’s added to the slow cooker.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables safely.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient amounts for perfect results every time.

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.

Ingredients:
– 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

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon

Cook the Turkey Bacon until crispy in a skillet. Once done, remove it from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet, cook the diced yellow onion and minced garlic in the Turkey Bacon grease for about three minutes. This step helps develop rich flavors.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Add all remaining ingredients (except for the Turkey Bacon) to the slow cooker. Stir everything together well.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Cook on high for about two and a half hours. This allows all flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Add Turkey Bacon

After two and a half hours, add the crispy Turkey Bacon to the mixture. Continue cooking for an additional half hour before serving. Enjoy your delicious Crock Pot Green Beans!

How to Serve Crock Pot Green Beans

Crock Pot Green Beans are a versatile and delicious side dish that can complement a variety of meals. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual dinner, these green beans with Turkey Bacon will elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Grilled Meats

• Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavor of Turkey Bacon in the green beans pairs perfectly with the juicy tenderness of grilled chicken.
• Steaks: A hearty steak alongside these green beans creates a satisfying meal full of rich flavors.
• Pork Chops: The savory notes of the green beans enhance the taste of seasoned pork chops beautifully.

Serve with Breads

• Cornbread: The sweetness of cornbread balances the savory green beans, making for a delightful combination.
• Garlic Bread: A slice of garlic bread can soak up any juices from the green beans, providing extra flavor.

Incorporate into Salads

• Mixed Greens Salad: Toss some Crock Pot Green Beans into a fresh mixed greens salad for added texture and flavor.
• Pasta Salad: Incorporate the green beans into a pasta salad for an extra layer of taste and nutrition.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Green Beans

To ensure your Crock Pot Green Beans turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh green beans yield the best flavor and texture. Look for vibrant, crisp beans at the market.
• Adjust Seasoning Wisely: Taste your mixture before serving and adjust salt and pepper to achieve your desired flavor profile.
• Cook on Low for Richer Flavor: While cooking on high works well, using low heat can deepen the flavors over time.
• Don’t Skip the Bacon Grease: Using Turkey Bacon grease enhances the overall taste of your dish by infusing it with smoky goodness.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Green Beans

Crock Pot Green Beans make an excellent companion to various main dishes. Here are some great options to serve alongside them:

1. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, they provide a comforting contrast to the tender green beans.
2. Macaroni and Cheese: The creamy cheese sauce beautifully complements the savory flavors of the green beans.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and balances out the richness from the Turkey Bacon.
4. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf is a simple yet satisfying option that allows you to enjoy all the flavors together.
5. Stuffed Peppers: These flavorful stuffed peppers bring additional heartiness to your meal when paired with green beans.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn enhances your meal’s summer vibe while pairing nicely with both bacon and fresh green beans.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Crock Pot Green Beans can be a simple delight, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch for.

• Skipping the bacon prep: Don’t skip cooking the Turkey Bacon before adding it to the crock pot. This step enhances flavor and ensures the bacon is crispy.
• Overcooking the green beans: If you cook them for too long, your green beans may lose their bright color and crisp texture. Follow the cooking times carefully.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can lead to bland results. Always check your dish before serving and add salt, pepper, or other spices as needed.
• Using low-quality broth: A poor-quality vegetable broth can impact the overall taste of your dish. Opt for a good brand or homemade broth for better flavor.
• Not trimming beans properly: Make sure to trim and cut your green beans into even pieces. This helps them cook uniformly and enhances their appearance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Crock Pot Green Beans in an airtight container.
• They will last in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Crock Pot Green Beans

• Place cooled green beans in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crock Pot Green Beans

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a baking dish covered with foil for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover; heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat gently on medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Crock Pot Green Beans that you might find helpful.

What are Crock Pot Green Beans?

Crock Pot Green Beans are a flavorful side dish made with fresh green beans, Turkey Bacon, onions, and seasonings cooked slowly in a crockpot.

Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, you can substitute frozen green beans; however, reduce cooking time slightly to avoid mushiness.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Crock Pot Green Beans?

Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the flavor. You can also try different types of bacon or smoked sausage for variety.

Are Crock Pot Green Beans healthy?

Yes! This recipe features fresh veggies and lean Turkey Bacon, making it a nutritious side option packed with vitamins.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Green Beans offer a delicious blend of flavors that make them an appealing side dish for any meal. Their versatility allows you to customize them with various ingredients based on your preferences. Whether you’re serving them at family gatherings or enjoying them on a weeknight, these green beans are sure to impress!

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Crock Pot Green Beans with Turkey Bacon

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• Author: Laura Milligan
• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Crock Pot Green Beans with Turkey Bacon are the perfect side dish that combines rich flavors with easy preparation. This delightful recipe features fresh green beans cooked slowly to tender perfection, enhanced by the smoky goodness of Turkey Bacon and sweet onions. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, preparing for a family dinner, or looking for a comforting weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can enjoy a warm, savory side that complements any main course.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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

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Instructions

1. Cook Turkey Bacon in a skillet until crispy; set aside.
2. Sauté diced onion and minced garlic in the bacon grease for about three minutes.
3. In the slow cooker, combine sautéed onion and garlic with all remaining ingredients except Turkey Bacon; stir well.
4. Cook on high for two and a half hours.
5. Add crispy Turkey Bacon to the mixture and cook for an additional 30 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 3/4 cup (150g)
• Calories: 167
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Use fresh green beans for the best flavor. Adjust seasoning according to your taste preferences. For added richness, consider cooking on low heat for a longer duration.