Description

Craving a hearty, Southern-inspired side dish that’s bursting with smoky, savory, and herbaceous flavors? Look no further than Slow Cooker Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes with Bacon! This comforting recipe combines crisp green beans, tender baby potatoes, and crispy bacon, all infused with the tangy, zesty kick of ranch seasoning and aromatic herbs, effortlessly prepared in a slow cooker

Ingredients

Core Ingredients

Fresh Green Beans (1 lb, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces): Crisp and vibrant, adding texture and nutrition.
- Substitution: Frozen green beans (no need to thaw, reduce cooking time by 30 minutes) or canned green beans (add in the last hour).
Baby Potatoes (1 lb, halved or quartered): Tender and starchy, perfect for soaking up flavors.
- Substitution: Red potatoes, Yukon Gold, or fingerling potatoes (cut into similar sizes).
Bacon (6 slices, diced): Provides smoky, savory depth.
- Substitution: Turkey bacon, pancetta, or smoked mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
Medium Onion (1, finely chopped): Adds sweet, savory depth.
- Substitution: Shallots, leeks, or 1 tsp onion powder.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses aromatic warmth.
- Substitution: ½ tsp garlic powder if fresh isn’t available.
Ranch Seasoning Mix (1 packet, 1 oz): Delivers tangy, herby flavor.
- Substitution: Homemade ranch mix (1 tbsp dried parsley, 1 tsp dried dill, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, ½ tsp dried chives, ½ tsp salt).
Chicken Broth (1 cup): Enhances savory flavor and keeps the dish moist.
- Substitution: Vegetable broth or water with a bouillon cube.
Dried Thyme (1 tsp): Adds earthy, herbal notes.
- Substitution: Fresh thyme (1 tbsp) or dried oregano.
Dried Rosemary (1 tsp): Brings woody, aromatic depth.
- Substitution: Fresh rosemary (1 tbsp, finely chopped) or dried sage.
Salt and Pepper (to taste): Enhances all the flavors.
- Substitution: Sea salt or low-sodium options for dietary needs.
Olive Oil (1 tbsp, optional): Used if bacon is lean to prevent sticking.
- Substitution: Butter, vegetable oil, or omit if bacon fat is sufficient.

Optional Garnish

Fresh Parsley, Oregano, or Basil: Adds vibrant color and freshness.
- Substitution: Chives, cilantro, or no garnish.

Why They’re Important: Green beans and potatoes form the hearty, nutritious base, bacon adds smoky richness, and ranch seasoning delivers the signature tangy kick. Onion, garlic, and herbs elevate the flavor, while broth ensures a moist, cohesive dish. Garnishes add a fresh, polished finish.

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 6 slices of diced bacon until crispy, about 8-10 minutes.
Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Reserve 1-2 tbsp of bacon fat in the skillet.
- Tip: For a vegetarian version, sauté smoked mushrooms in 1 tbsp olive oil until browned and use as a bacon substitute.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet with reserved bacon fat, add 1 finely chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook over medium heat until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 5 minutes. If the bacon is lean, add 1 tbsp olive oil.
Remove from heat and set aside.
- Tip: Scrape up any browned bits from the skillet for extra flavor, and chop the onion finely for even cooking in the slow cooker.

Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker

Place 1 lb trimmed and cut green beans and 1 lb halved or quartered baby potatoes in the slow cooker.
Add the sautéed onion and garlic mixture, crispy bacon, 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp dried rosemary, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of pepper.
Pour 1 cup chicken broth over the ingredients and stir gently to combine, ensuring the seasoning coats the vegetables evenly.
- Tip: Spray the slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange potatoes at the bottom for even cooking, as they take longer than green beans.

Step 4: Cook

Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender and the green beans are tender but still slightly crisp.
Check at the lower end of the time range to avoid overcooking; the vegetables should hold their shape but be soft.
- Tip: Stir halfway through if possible to ensure even flavor distribution, but avoid lifting the lid too often. If the dish looks too watery, cook uncovered for the last 15-30 minutes to reduce the liquid.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Stir the mixture to blend the flavors and check the consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or ranch mix if needed.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, oregano, or basil for a vibrant, fresh finish.
- Tip: For a richer flavor, stir in 1 tbsp butter or a sprinkle of extra bacon crumbles before serving. Transfer to a serving bowl for a polished presentation.