If you’re looking for a comforting dish that combines hearty flavors and rich textures, look no further than Smothered Green Beans. This recipe takes fresh green beans, creamy red potatoes, smoky sausage, and crispy bacon, smothering them all in a flavorful, creamy broth. It’s a perfect side dish that doubles as a satisfying one-pan meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this dish will be the star of your table.
With their deliciously smoky, savory flavors and a creamy texture that coats each ingredient, smothered green beans are sure to become a favorite. The balance of flavors—from the rich sausage and bacon to the earthy green beans and sweet potatoes—makes it a perfect addition to any meal. The bonus? It’s incredibly easy to make and ready in under an hour, making it perfect for both seasoned chefs and beginners.
In this article, we’ll take you through the essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips to perfect your Smothered Green Beans. Plus, we’ll explore how to make this dish lighter and more customizable based on your dietary preferences.
Why Smothered Green Beans?
Smothered Green Beans is the kind of dish that brings people together. Its warmth, creaminess, and deep smoky flavor create a comforting experience that feels like home. Here’s why this recipe works so well:
A Perfect Combination of Flavors: The dish combines smoky sausage, crispy bacon, and tender green beans with the creamy goodness of a roux-based sauce. This creates a satisfying, multi-layered flavor profile.
Comforting and Filling: The creamy broth, made from chicken broth, bacon grease, and flour, gives the dish a rich texture that makes it feel indulgent yet comforting.
Versatile: While perfect as a side dish to accompany meat or poultry, Smothered Green Beans can also stand alone as a hearty, one-pan meal. Whether you’re serving it on its own or as part of a larger spread, it works beautifully in any setting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making smothered green beans requires some simple ingredients, most of which are kitchen staples. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
Green Beans: Fresh, trimmed green beans are best for this recipe. If you’re pressed for time, frozen green beans can be used as a substitute.
Red Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes also work well, adding a slightly creamier texture. The potatoes provide a nice contrast to the crispness of the green beans.
Smoked Sausage: Any variety of smoked sausage works, but turkey sausage is a great lighter option. Smoked sausage adds that rich, smoky flavor to the dish.
Bacon: Bacon adds a crispy, savory crunch that elevates the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter version, turkey bacon can be swapped in.
Onion and Garlic: For a fragrant base, the onions provide sweetness, and the garlic offers a punch of aromatic flavor.
Chicken Broth: A key ingredient to create the creamy broth-based sauce, providing moisture and flavor. For a lighter dish, you can use low-sodium chicken broth.
Spices & Seasonings:
Garlic Powder: Adds subtle depth to the dish.
Smoked Paprika: For a smoky undertone that complements the sausage.
Slap Ya Mama Seasoning: This spicy seasoning adds a kick to the dish. Feel free to adjust it to your preferred heat level, or skip it entirely for a milder flavor.
Salt and pepper: essential for balancing the flavors.
How to Make Smothered Green Beans
Making smothered green beans is straightforward. With just a few steps, you’ll have a delicious and hearty dish ready in no time. Here’s how to make it:
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Start by cooking the chopped bacon in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Allow it to cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon using a slotted spoon and set it aside. Keep the bacon grease in the skillet—it adds flavor to the next step.
Step 2: Brown the Smoked Sausage
In the same skillet, add the sliced smoked sausage and cook it in the bacon grease for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until it’s nicely browned and slightly crispy. Remove the sausage and set it aside with the bacon.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté it for about 4 minutes, or until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring constantly to form a paste. Cook the flour for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors and cook out its raw taste. Be careful not to burn the flour—adjust the heat as necessary.
Slowly add 1/2 cup of chicken broth, whisking as you go to prevent lumps from forming. The flour will thicken the broth into a creamy sauce. Stir in the garlic powder, smoked paprika, and Slap Ya Mama seasoning.
Step 5: Add the Potatoes and Green Beans
Next, add the quartered red potatoes and green beans to the skillet, mixing everything well to coat with the sauce. Pour in the remaining chicken broth, ensuring that the vegetables are submerged in the liquid.
Step 6: Simmer the Dish
Stir in the cooked smoked sausage, then bring the mixture to a boil. Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to a simmer, and cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally during the cooking process to ensure everything cooks evenly.
Step 7: Finish the Dish
Once the potatoes are tender and the sauce has thickened to your liking, stir in the crispy bacon. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Tips and Variations for Smothered Green Beans
Smothered Green Beans is a versatile dish, and there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your preferences. Whether you want to lighten up the dish, add some extra flavor, or tweak the ingredients based on what you have at hand, these tips and variations will help you make it your own.
Lighter Version of Smothered Green Beans
If you’re looking to make Smothered Green Beans a bit lighter, there are several substitutions you can make without sacrificing flavor:
Turkey Bacon: Swap out regular bacon for turkey bacon to reduce the fat content. Turkey bacon still provides the crispy texture you’re after while being a lighter option.
Turkey Sausage: Replace smoked sausage with turkey sausage. It will still add the smoky flavor, but with fewer calories and less fat.
Olive Oil for Sautéing: Instead of using bacon grease to sauté the onions and garlic, you can use olive oil. This will cut down on the amount of grease in the dish while still giving the onions and garlic a good base flavor.
Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to reduce the overall sodium content of the dish, which is a great option for anyone watching their salt intake.
Add More Vegetables
While green beans and red potatoes are the stars of this dish, you can add extra vegetables for a more hearty, nutritious meal:
Carrots: Slice up a few carrots and add them to the mix. Their sweetness will balance the savory flavors in the dish.
Bell Peppers: Add diced bell peppers for a pop of color and extra flavor. Red, yellow, or green peppers work beautifully with this recipe.
Spinach or Kale: Add a handful of spinach or kale for some leafy greens. These vegetables will cook down and blend well with the sauce, adding extra nutrients and flavor to your dish.
Spice It Up
If you like a bit of heat in your dish, feel free to add more spices or even fresh chili peppers:
Cayenne Pepper: A pinch of cayenne will add a spicy kick to the dish. Adjust the amount depending on your heat tolerance.
Fresh Chili Peppers: Slice up a fresh jalapeño or serrano pepper and toss it in with the onions and garlic for an extra layer of heat.
Hot Sauce: Add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce in the final steps to give the dish a flavorful, spicy finish.
Gluten-Free Version
For those who follow a gluten-free diet, it’s easy to modify this recipe:
Use Gluten-Free Flour: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to create the roux. This will keep the dish gluten-free while maintaining the same creamy texture.
Check Sausage and Bacon Labels: Be sure to check that the sausage and bacon you’re using are gluten-free. Some processed meats may contain gluten as a filler or preservative.
Make It a One-Pan Meal
While Smothered Green Beans works great as a side dish, it can easily be turned into a complete meal by adding extra protein. Here are some ideas to make this dish a full dinner:
Chicken Thighs: Add bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs to the skillet and cook them with the vegetables. The chicken will get crispy on the outside while staying juicy and tender inside. You can either sear the thighs first or add them to the dish after the sausage step.
Pork Chops: Pork chops, whether bone-in or boneless, would pair perfectly with this dish. Sear them and then simmer them in the sauce along with the potatoes and green beans for a delicious and filling one-pan meal.
Tofu: For a vegetarian option, try adding tofu. Cut firm tofu into cubes and sauté them with the sausage, onions, and garlic. Let them soak up the savory flavors of the broth.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers, you’re in luck because Smothered Green Beans make a great dish to enjoy the next day.
Storing: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to cover it to avoid drying out the vegetables.
When to Serve Smothered Green Beans
Smothered Green Beans is a versatile dish that can be served at any time of the year. Whether it’s a holiday meal, a weeknight dinner, or a family gathering, this dish fits perfectly into a wide range of meals. Here are some ideas for when to serve it:
Holiday Feasts: Serve it alongside your Thanksgiving turkey, Christmas ham, or Easter roast. The rich, creamy sauce and savory sausage complement the flavors of your holiday proteins.
Barbecue Nights: Pair it with grilled meats like ribs, burgers, or grilled chicken. The smoky sausage and crispy bacon will bring out the flavors of your outdoor cookout.
Family Dinners: This dish works great for weeknight dinners when you want something hearty and filling without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s easy to make in one pot and will feed a family of four with ease.
Meal Prep: Smothered Green Beans also make a great dish for meal prepping. It stores well in the fridge and can be quickly reheated for a delicious lunch or dinner during the week.
FAQs On Smothered Green Beans
What adds flavor to green beans?
Green beans can be enhanced with various ingredients and seasonings to boost their flavor. Common options include garlic, onion, smoked sausage, bacon, and herbs like thyme or rosemary. Adding a savory sauce, such as soy sauce or teriyaki, can also deepen the flavor. For a spicy kick, try sprinkling red pepper flakes or using Cajun seasoning. The key is to balance salty, savory, and aromatic ingredients to elevate the dish.
What is the best seasoning for sautéed green beans?
The best seasoning for sautéed green beans includes garlic, salt, pepper, and a splash of soy sauce or lemon juice for added depth. Smoked paprika, thyme, and onion powder also work well to enhance the flavor. For a touch of heat, you can add red pepper flakes. A squeeze of fresh lemon or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar can brighten the dish and add an extra layer of flavor.
What’s the best way to cook green beans?
The best way to cook green beans depends on your desired texture and flavor. For the freshest taste, blanching green beans in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before sautéing is great for preserving their color and crunch. You can also sauté them in a skillet with garlic and olive oil for a simple and flavorful side dish. Alternatively, roasting green beans in the oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes gives them a delicious caramelized flavor.
Should you drain canned green beans before cooking?
Yes, you should drain and rinse canned green beans before cooking to remove excess sodium and any canning liquid. After draining, you can sauté or cook them in your desired recipe. If you’re using them in a dish that has a broth or sauce, you can leave a small amount of the liquid for extra flavor.
Why do you put baking soda in green beans?
Baking soda is sometimes added to green beans while cooking to help preserve their vibrant green color. It helps neutralize acidity in the beans, making them look brighter and more appetizing. However, using too much baking soda can affect the texture and flavor, so it’s important to use it sparingly, if at all.
Recipe Card: Smothered Green Beans
Ingredients:
1 lb fresh green beans, washed and trimmed (can substitute frozen)
1.5 lbs red potatoes, quartered (Yukon Gold potatoes also work well)
1 yellow onion, diced
6-7 garlic cloves, minced
14 oz smoked sausage, sliced (any variety, turkey sausage is a great option)
5 slices bacon, chopped
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium broth works for a healthier option)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp Slap Ya Mama seasoning (optional for a spicy kick)
Salt and pepper, to taste (if needed)
Instructions:
Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet or pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet.
Brown the Sausage: Add the smoked sausage slices to the skillet with the bacon grease. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until browned and slightly crispy. Remove and set aside with the bacon.
Sauté Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet, add diced onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Make the Roux: Sprinkle 2 tbsp of flour over the onion and garlic, stirring to form a paste. Cook for 2-3 minutes, being careful not to burn the flour.
Add Chicken Broth and Spices: Slowly add 1/2 cup of chicken broth while stirring to create a thickened sauce. Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, Slap Ya Mama seasoning (if using), and stir well.
Add Vegetables: Add the quartered potatoes and green beans, mixing them into the sauce. Pour in the remaining chicken broth and stir in the cooked sausage.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to a simmer. Let cook for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender, stirring occasionally.
Finish the Dish: Stir in the crispy bacon. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve: Serve hot as a side dish or a one-pan meal. Enjoy!
Notes:
You can substitute frozen green beans for fresh ones if needed.
For a lighter version, swap turkey sausage and turkey bacon, and use olive oil instead of bacon grease.
Feel free to add extra vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or spinach to enhance the dish.
If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of Slap Ya Mama seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
Calories: 360
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 14g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 5g
Sodium: 850mg
Sugar: 3g
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Method: Stove-top
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4
Calories: 360 per serving
Yield: 4 servings
