If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, this Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes with Bacon recipe hits all the right notes. Fresh green beans, tender baby potatoes, and crispy smoky bacon come together in a tangy, herby ranch-seasoned broth for a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic comfort, with a twist – Fresh vegetables and savory bacon get an herby boost from ranch seasoning.
- Easy & budget-friendly – Simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and no expensive specialty items.
- Crowd-pleasing & versatile – Works for casual weeknight dinners, holiday spreads, and everything in between.
- Customizable – Easily adapt for gluten-free, dairy-free, low-carb, or vegetarian needs.
Servings
This recipe makes 6–8 servings, perfect for feeding the family or a small gathering. For portion control, pair a smaller serving with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.
Ingredients
Core Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed & cut into 1-inch pieces (frozen works too—adjust cook time)
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved or quartered
- 6 slices bacon, diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for lean bacon)
Optional Add-Ins
- Red pepper flakes or hot sauce for heat
- Shredded cheddar for a cheesy finish
- Extra vegetables (corn, carrots, bell peppers) for added texture
- Fresh parsley, oregano, or basil for garnish
Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions
- Green beans → Try broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts.
- Potatoes → Use regular diced potatoes or sweet potatoes.
- Bacon → Swap for turkey bacon or omit and sauté in olive oil for a vegetarian version.
- Onion & garlic → Shallots or green onions work in a pinch.
- Chicken broth → Vegetable broth for vegetarian.
- Ranch seasoning → Make your own with dried dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and buttermilk powder.
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep: ~20 minutes
- Cook: 30–40 minutes
- Total: About 1 hour
Instructions
1. Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy (8–10 minutes). Remove with a slotted spoon to a paper towel-lined plate.
2. Sauté Aromatics
In the bacon fat, cook onion and garlic until the onion is translucent and fragrant (about 5 minutes). Add olive oil if needed.
3. Add Vegetables
Stir in green beans and potatoes. Cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Season & Simmer
Add chicken broth, ranch seasoning, thyme, and rosemary. Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 20–25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
5. Finish & Serve
Return bacon to the pan, stir, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve hot.
Cooking Tips
- Crispy bacon matters – Cook it in a single layer for even browning.
- Avoid mushy veggies – Don’t overcook; green beans should be tender but still bright.
- Balance the salt – Ranch seasoning can be salty, so taste before adding more.
Variations
- Slow Cooker – Combine everything except bacon, cook on low 6–8 hours, stir in bacon before serving.
- Instant Pot – Pressure cook for 5–6 minutes with quick release, then add bacon.
- Spicy Kick – Add jalapeños, cayenne, or chili flakes.
- Cheesy Twist – Stir in shredded cheddar just before serving.
Pairing Ideas
- Sides – Green salad, cornbread, or roasted vegetables.
- Drinks – Iced tea, light beer, or a glass of Merlot.
Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.
- Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth.
- For best texture, store bacon separately and add just before serving.
Nutrition (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 250–300
- Protein: 10–15g
- Fat: 15–20g
- Carbs: 25–30g
- Vitamins & Minerals: Vitamin C, iron, and fiber from vegetables.
Final Thoughts
This Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes with Bacon recipe is proof that simple ingredients can deliver big flavor. It’s hearty, homey, and endlessly adaptable—perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Once you make it, it’s bound to become a family favorite.