Crock Pot Green Beans

This Crock Pot Green Beans recipe is the perfect addition to any meal, bringing together the rich taste of Turkey Bacon and the freshness of green beans. Ideal for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or potlucks, this dish is simple to prepare and packed with flavor. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to enjoy delicious green beans without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker, and let it do the rest!
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of Turkey Bacon and fresh vegetables creates a savory dish that everyone will love.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair these green beans with any main course for a wholesome meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Fresh green beans and lean Turkey Bacon offer a nutritious option without compromising on taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a festive gathering, this dish fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here are some must-haves for preparing your Crock Pot Green Beans.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Skillet
• Cutting Board
• Chef’s Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: This is the star of the show. It allows for low-and-slow cooking, ensuring flavors meld beautifully while you relax.
• Skillet: Perfect for frying bacon until crispy. This step adds an extra depth of flavor to your green beans.
• Cutting Board: A stable surface for chopping your onions and trimming green beans ensures safety and efficiency.
• Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife makes quick work of prepping your ingredients.

Ingredients

This Crock Pot Green Beans recipe combines the smoky flavor of Turkey Bacon with the freshness of green beans and the sweetness of onions, all cooked to savory perfection in a slow cooker.

Main Ingredients

• 8 slices Turkey Bacon (chopped)
• 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 pound fresh green beans (trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 1 ½ cups vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Crock Pot Green Beans

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon

Cook the Turkey Bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, remove it from the pan and set aside on a paper towel to drain excess grease.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic to the remaining Turkey Bacon grease. Sauté for about 3 minutes until onions are translucent. Transfer this mixture to your slow cooker.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Add all remaining ingredients except for the cooked Turkey Bacon into the slow cooker:
* Fresh green beans
* Vegetable broth
* Butter
* Brown sugar (if using)
* Worcestershire sauce
* Salt and pepper

Stir well to combine everything evenly.

Step 4: Cook in Slow Cooker

Cover and cook on high for 2 1/2 hours. After this time, add the crispy Turkey Bacon back into the crock pot. Continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes before serving hot!

How to Serve Crock Pot Green Beans

Crock Pot Green Beans are a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. They add a savory and smoky flavor to your meal, making them an excellent choice for family dinners or special occasions.

With Grilled Meats

• Steak – The rich flavors of grilled steak complement the savory notes of the green beans.
• Chicken – Whether roasted or grilled, chicken makes a perfect match for these smoky green beans.
• Pork Chops – The sweetness of the pork balances the salty taste from the Turkey Bacon in the dish.

In a Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad – Toss the cooked green beans into a fresh salad for added texture and flavor.
• Pasta Salad – Combine with pasta, cherry tomatoes, and a light dressing for an easy side option.

As Part of a Holiday Feast

• Thanksgiving Dinner – These green beans add a delicious twist to your traditional holiday spread.
• Christmas Feast – Their festive colors and flavors make them an ideal addition to any holiday table.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Green Beans

Creating the perfect Crock Pot Green Beans involves some simple yet effective techniques. Follow these tips to enhance your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh green beans provide better texture and flavor than canned or frozen options.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce according to your preference for optimal flavor.
• Cook Low and Slow – If time allows, cooking on low heat enhances the flavors even more compared to high heat.
• Incorporate Herbs – Adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the overall taste profile of your green beans.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Green Beans

Crock Pot Green Beans can shine alongside many other dishes. Consider these complementary side dishes that will round out your meal perfectly.

1. Cornbread – A sweet and crumbly cornbread pairs well with the savory flavors of green beans.
2. Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes offer comfort alongside the crunchy texture of green beans.
3. Macaroni and Cheese – This cheesy classic makes a delightful contrast with the freshness of slow-cooked green beans.
4. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and acidity, balancing well with the richness of the green beans.
5. Roasted Carrots – Sweet roasted carrots complement the smoky taste while adding vibrant color to your plate.
6. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad provides protein and is perfect for those looking for healthier options.
7. Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf enhances your meal with its mild flavor and fluffy texture.
8. Baked Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory green beans.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Crock Pot Green Beans, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Using old green beans: Freshness matters! Always choose fresh green beans for the best flavor and texture in your slow cooker green beans.

• Not trimming the beans: Skipping this step can lead to tough bites. Make sure to trim and cut your green beans into 1-inch pieces for even cooking.

• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Stuffing too many ingredients can prevent even cooking. Stick to the recommended amounts in the recipe for optimal results.

• Forgetting to season properly: This dish benefits from seasoning. Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, or additional Worcestershire sauce as needed before serving.

• Rushing the cooking time: Cooking on high for too short a time can leave your green beans undercooked. Follow the instructions carefully for tender, flavorful results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Crock Pot Green Beans in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Make sure they are cooled down before sealing the container.

Freezing Crock Pot Green Beans

• Place cooled green beans in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
• Label containers with dates to track freshness easily.

Reheating Crock Pot Green Beans

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes.

• Microwave: Transfer them to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-8 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen green beans for this Crock Pot Green Beans recipe?

Yes! You can use frozen green beans; just add them directly without thawing. The cooking time may need slight adjustments.

How do I make vegetarian Crock Pot Green Beans?

To make this recipe vegetarian, simply replace Turkey Bacon with smoked tempeh or omit it altogether. Use vegetable broth as specified.

What can I serve with Crock Pot Green Beans?

These green beans pair beautifully with grilled meats, casseroles, or as part of a holiday meal spread. Their smoky flavor complements many dishes!

How long does it take to cook Crock Pot Green Beans on low?

If you prefer cooking on low, plan for about 6 hours of cooking time for perfectly tender green beans.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Green Beans is a delightful side dish that combines smoky flavors with fresh vegetables. This recipe is not only simple but also versatile—you can customize it by adding different spices or veggies according to your preference. Enjoy making this comforting dish!