Begin by preparing all ingredients. Trim and cut the green beans, dice the potatoes, chop the bacon, and mince the garlic. Having everything ready before cooking ensures a smooth process.
Place a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until it becomes crisp and releases its fat. Once cooked, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.
If there are less than two tablespoons of bacon drippings, add olive oil to make up the difference. Add the diced onion to the pan and sauté until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Add the diced potatoes to the pan and stir to coat them in the bacon fat and aromatics. Cook for three to four minutes, allowing the potatoes to begin developing flavor.
Next, add the green beans to the pan, followed by the ranch seasoning mix, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasonings.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pan, reduce the heat to low, and cook for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are fork-tender and the green beans are cooked but still slightly crisp.
Once the vegetables are tender, uncover the pan and allow any excess liquid to reduce slightly. Stir the cooked bacon back into the dish and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serving and Storage:
Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes is best served warm, straight from the skillet. Its hearty nature makes it an excellent side dish for roasted chicken, pork chops, steak, or grilled meats.
For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside cornbread or a simple garden salad. The creamy ranch flavors and smoky bacon pair well with fresh, acidic sides.
Leftovers should be allowed to cool completely before being stored in an airtight container. Refrigerated, the dish will keep well for up to three days.
To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to restore moisture.
Tips:
For best texture, avoid overcooking the green beans. They should be tender but still hold their shape and color.
If you prefer a creamier version, a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of sour cream can be stirred in at the end.
This recipe is flexible and can be customized easily. Smoked sausage, ham, or shredded chicken can be added to make it a more filling main dish.
Fresh herbs can be substituted for dried if available. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs for optimal flavor.
Conclusion:
Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes is a comforting, flavorful dish that celebrates simple ingredients and classic cooking techniques. With smoky bacon, tender vegetables, and bold ranch seasoning, it delivers warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
Whether served as a side dish or enjoyed on its own, this recipe is a dependable addition to any meal plan. It proves that rustic, home-style cooking can be both easy and deeply rewarding.
FAQ:
Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, frozen green beans can be used if fresh are unavailable. Add them slightly later in the cooking process to avoid overcooking.
What type of potatoes work best?
Baby potatoes, Yukon Gold, or red potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape and have a creamy texture.
Can this dish be made vegetarian?
Yes, omit the bacon and use olive oil for sautéing. Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Is ranch seasoning required?
Ranch seasoning provides the signature flavor, but a homemade blend of garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs, and a touch of buttermilk powder can be used as a substitute.