Introduction
This hearty, comforting side dish is a blend of fresh green beans, tender potatoes, smoky bacon, and the savory tang of ranch seasoning. It’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for potlucks, holiday dinners, or as a complement to any main course. My grandmother has been making this recipe for as long as I can remember, and it’s become a must-have at every family gathering. Even my friends have fallen in love with it, often asking for the recipe!
Ingredients
For the dish
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and snapped
- 1 lb baby red or yellow potatoes, quartered
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet (1 oz) dry ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter (optional, for added richness)
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Wash the green beans and trim the ends. Snap them in half if they’re long. Wash and quarter the potatoes (no need to peel unless preferred). Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave 1-2 tbsp of bacon grease in the pan for added flavor.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the diced onion to the skillet with the bacon grease. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
Add the quartered potatoes to the skillet. Stir to coat them in the bacon grease and onion mixture. Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle half of the ranch seasoning packet over the potatoes. Stir well. Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook for 10 minutes.
Step 5: Add the Green Beans
Stir the green beans into the skillet, coating them in the broth mixture. Sprinkle the remaining ranch seasoning over the green beans. Add salt and pepper to taste. Cover again and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the green beans are cooked to your liking.
Step 6: Add the Bacon and Optional Finishes
Stir the crispy bacon back into the skillet. If desired, add a drizzle of olive oil or a pat of butter for extra richness.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the dish to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy the cozy, comforting flavors!
Conclusion
Country Ranch Green Beans ‘n Potatoes with Bacon is more than just a side dish—it’s a cherished tradition in many homes, including mine. The smoky bacon pairs beautifully with the ranch seasoning and the natural flavors of fresh green beans and potatoes. It’s easy to make, yet it never fails to impress at gatherings. Make this recipe your own with your favorite seasonings or garnishes, and watch it become a staple on your family’s table too!
