Do Share Recipe

Southern Crockpot Green Beans Recipe That Brings Back Memories

I’ve always loved slow-cooked meals that fill the kitchen with rich, mouthwatering aromas. That’s exactly what this Southern Crockpot Green Beans Recipe does. The beans come out so tender, and the flavors? Smoky, savory, and downright comforting.

It reminded me of the Cheesy Taco Stuffed Shells Recipe I made last week—simple, hearty, and unforgettable. If you’re looking for a no-fuss side dish that pairs well with nearly everything, this one’s a keeper.

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Best Southern Green Beans

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this delicious slow-cooked side dish to life. Every ingredient has a role to play in building deep Southern flavor.

2 lbs fresh green beans, trimmed – Go for fresh, firm green beans. Frozen ones turn mushy during slow cooking.
6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped – Thick bacon adds hearty texture and that classic smoky depth.
1 medium onion, diced – Gives a sweet, mellow base once sautéed in bacon fat.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds a warm, earthy bite that complements the bacon.
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth – Helps tenderize the beans and adds savory flavor without overwhelming salt.
1 tsp salt – Enhances the natural flavors. Adjust to taste near the end.
1/2 tsp black pepper – Brings a gentle kick and depth.
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – A little heat for spice lovers.
1 tbsp butter (optional) – Stir in at the end for added richness and glossy finish.

Note: This recipe yields approximately 6 hearty servings. Great for family dinners or Sunday potlucks.

Easy Swaps and Flavor Boosters You Can Try

If you want to mix it up or need to accommodate different dietary needs, here are some fun and tasty twists. These swaps are perfect for experimenting with classic dinner recipes.

Turkey bacon or plant-based bacon for a lower-fat or vegetarian version.
Shallots instead of onion for a milder, more delicate flavor.
Add smoked paprika for more depth without added meat.
Toss in baby potatoes or sliced mushrooms for a one-pot meal.
Use vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
Stir in a dash of apple cider vinegar at the end for brightness.

Cooking Time You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require much hands-on time, but it does need a few hours in the crockpot to get those beans tender and flavorful.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 6 hours (on low)
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes

Equipment You’ll Need to Make This Recipe

Make sure you have the following kitchen tools ready before you begin:

Large skillet – To cook bacon and sauté onion/garlic.
Slotted spoon – For removing crispy bacon while leaving the drippings.
Cutting board & knife – To trim beans and chop onion/bacon.
Crockpot/Slow Cooker – The star of the show for cooking the green beans slowly.
Measuring spoons/cups – For accurate seasoning and broth measurement.

How to Make Southern Crockpot Green Beans Recipe?

The beauty of this dish is how hands-off it is once everything’s in the slow cooker. Here’s how I do it every time, step by step.

Cook the Bacon for That Southern Flavor

Start by placing chopped thick-cut bacon into a skillet over medium heat. Let it cook slowly so the fat renders properly, and the bacon gets golden and crispy. Once it’s done, scoop the bacon out using a slotted spoon and set it aside for later. Don’t toss out the bacon grease—it’s gold.

Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan with all that tasty bacon drippings, add your diced onions. Stir and cook them until they turn soft and translucent—about 3 to 4 minutes. Then, toss in your minced garlic and cook for another minute. The aroma at this stage is amazing!

Layer the Ingredients in the Crockpot

Now grab your crockpot. Place the trimmed green beans into it. Then, pour the sautéed onion and garlic right over the beans. Sprinkle the crispy bacon on top. Next, pour in the chicken broth and season everything with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

Slow Cook to Perfection

Pop the lid on the crockpot. Set it to low and cook for 6–7 hours, or if you’re short on time, use the high setting for 3–4 hours. When the beans are soft and full of flavor, you’re nearly done.

Add a Finishing Touch

Right before serving, stir in a tablespoon of butter for a silky finish. Give the beans a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Now you’re ready to serve!

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

I’ve made this recipe several times now, and here are some things I’ve learned that really make a difference.

Don’t skip sautéing the onions—they add so much flavor!
I like using fresh green beans instead of frozen to keep the texture right.
If you’re watching salt, use low-sodium broth and go easy on added salt.
Always taste before serving—sometimes the bacon adds enough salt on its own.
For meal prep, you can cook the bacon and aromatics a day ahead to save time.

How to Serve Southern Crockpot Green Beans Recipe?

This comforting side dish goes with everything. I love serving it alongside roasted chicken, mashed potatoes, or grilled pork chops. For a cozy, Southern-style spread, serve it with cornbread and sweet tea.

You can even make it part of a hearty casserole like the Cheesy Taco Stuffed Shells Recipe—pair them on a plate for a meal that satisfies every craving.

To make the presentation extra nice, scoop the beans into a shallow serving bowl, drizzle some of the flavorful broth over the top, and sprinkle with a bit of chopped parsley or extra crumbled bacon.

Nutritional Information

This recipe is not only full of flavor—it’s also a healthier side dish option. Here’s a quick look at what you get per serving:

Calories: 165
Protein: 7g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fat: 11g

How to Store the Southern Crockpot Green Beans

Here’s how to keep your leftovers fresh and tasty for days:

Storing in the Fridge: Transfer the beans and broth to an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Let the beans cool completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay good for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth if it looks dry.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Here’s why this dish is a crowd-pleaser and one of my favorite slow cooker go-tos:

Easy to make: Once everything is in the crockpot, it’s hands-off.
Full of flavor: Bacon, garlic, onion, and broth make every bite delicious.
Versatile pairing: Pairs perfectly with meats, casseroles, or vegetarian mains.
Comfort food classic: Feels like home cooking every time you serve it.
Customizable: Easy to tweak for different diets or spice preferences.

Common Mistakes to Avoid for Better Results

Don’t let these simple errors ruin your green beans. Here are a few things to watch out for:

Using frozen green beans – They often turn too soft or watery.
Skipping the onion/garlic sauté step – This step adds crucial depth.
Adding salt too early without tasting – Bacon and broth already add salt.
Overcooking on high heat too long – The beans can get mushy fast.
Not trimming the beans evenly – Uneven pieces cook inconsistently.

Ben Carraoli