This Italian cheese is so versatile that it can be used in both sweet and savory recipes from cheesecakes to lasagnas.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Country Green Beans
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- #1397
You won't believe how easy it is to copy this popular side dish from Cracker Barrel at home. The recipe is made with bacon, green beans, onion, and seasonings.
serves/makes:
ready in:
30-60 minutes
30-60 minutes
9 reviews
3 comments
ingredients
1/4 pound bacon, chopped
1/4 medium onion, chopped
3 cans (14.5 ounce size) whole green beans, undrained
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
directions
Heat a saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the bacon and onion and cook, stirring frequently, until the they begin to brown.
Add the green beans, sugar, salt, and pepper and stir well. Cover the pan, reduce the heat to low, and let cook for 45 minutes. Stir well then serve warm.
recipe tips
Add a splash of chicken or vegetable broth, apple cider vinegar, or Worcestershire sauce for more depth of flavor.
Try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
To add texture, sprinkle crispy fried onions on top before serving.
For a smokier taste, mix in a teaspoon of liquid smoke or a little smoked paprika.
If using fresh green beans, adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster than canned.
Experiment with different types of onions, such as red or sweet or even shallots, for varied flavors.
Use thick-cut bacon for a heartier flavor.
If using low-sodium canned green beans, adjust the salt in the recipe to taste.
common recipe questions
Can I use fresh or frozen green beans instead of canned?
You can use fresh or frozen green beans. If using fresh, trim and cut them into desired lengths; for frozen, make sure to thaw them first. Cooking times may need to be adjusted to make sure they are tender.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use a tablespoon of olive oil or butter to saute the onion. Consider adding smoked paprika for a similar smoky flavor.
Why add sugar to green beans?
Sugar enhances the natural sweetness of the green beans and balances the savory flavors of bacon and onion.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Reduce the bacon amount or use turkey bacon for a lower fat option. You can also use low-sodium green beans to decrease the salt content.
What if I don't have a saucepan large enough?
Use a stockpot or a large skillet as an alternative. The important thing is to cover the beans to allow them to simmer properly.
Can I add garlic to this recipe?
Yes, adding minced garlic can add an additional layer of flavor. Add it to the bacon and onion just before they finish cooking to prevent burning.
How long can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat the green beans on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent them from drying out. You can also use the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, cool the cooked green beans completely before freezing in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Is there a way to reduce the fat in this dish?
You can reduce the fat by using a lower-fat bacon option (such as turkey bacon or plant-based bacon) and adding a little olive oil, or by using less bacon overall and adding more onions or other vegetables to bulk it up.
Can I add other vegetables?
You can add diced bell peppers, carrots, or even sliced mushrooms (it won't be like Cracker Barrel's but why not make it your own!).
What's the best way to serve these green beans?
These green beans are best served warm, either as a side dish with meats like chicken or pork, or alongside cornbread for a classic Southern meal.
What should I do if the green beans are too salty?
If the dish turns out too salty, you can add additional undrained canned green beans to dilute the saltiness, or add a small amount of sugar to counteract the salt.
Can this dish be made in a slow cooker?
You can make this dish in a slow cooker. Cook the bacon and onion as directed, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
tools needed
Saucepan: To heat the bacon and onion over medium-high heat, and to combine them with the green beans and seasonings during the cooking process. A lid is necessary for covering the pan while the dish simmers.
Measuring Spoons: For measuring the sugar, salt, and black pepper for seasoning the green beans.
Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping the bacon and onion before cooking.
Stirring Spoon: For stirring the ingredients in the saucepan.
what goes with it?
Roasted Chicken: Pair your green beans with a crock pot roast chicken for a hearty meal. The savory notes from the bacon and onions in the beans complement the crispy, juicy chicken beautifully.
Cornbread: Serve some warm cornbread from scratch alongside the green beans. The slight sweetness of the cornbread contrasts nicely with the savory flavor.
Baked Ham: A slice of honey-baked ham pairs wonderfully with the green beans. The sweetness of the ham enhances the flavors of bacon and sugar in the beans.
Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad offers a cool, refreshing contrast to the warm, savory green beans.
Macaroni and Cheese: The classic comfort food of mac and cheese adds a cheesy, gooey texture that complements the beans.
Dijon Mustard Dressing: Drizzle a bit of Dijon mustard dressing on a simple salad as a side. The tanginess can cut through the richness of the beans with bacon.
Pickled Onions: Adding some zesty pickled onions on the side can provide a bright contrast to the savory beans.
Crispy Fried Onions: Top your green beans with crispy fried onions for extra crunch and flavor.
Cranberry Sauce: For a touch of sweetness, a little cranberry sauce can be a surprising but nice pairing. It adds a fruity note that works with the savory greens and bacon.
Grilled Shrimp: The smokiness from grilled shrimp makes for an upscale pairing. The lightness of seafood complements the richness of the beans without overwhelming them.
Southern Style Biscuits: Light and fluffy biscuits slathered in butter make an excellent accompaniment.
nutrition data
235 calories, 14 grams fat, 16 grams carbohydrates, 12 grams protein per serving.
Please note:
This is a copy cat recipe submitted to CDKitchen by a third-party. This recipe is not an original recipe unless specifically stated and is considered only to be an acceptable "clone" to the original for the home cook to attempt to duplicate. Please also note that many nationwide restaurant chains vary their menus and ingredients by region so the version provided may not be similar to what you may have tried before. All trademarks referenced are property of their respective owners.
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reviews & comments
December 3, 2019
Just like my Grandma used to make! I love being able to use canned green beans, however I'll also use fresh in the summertime. These are soooo good!!! Thank you!
July 20, 2019
MY FAMILY LOVES THESE. I USED FRESH GREEN BEANS. SUPER THANK YOU 😊
December 23, 2018
Excellent and so easy!
Do you drain the water out of the green beans before you add them??
The recipe says undrained in the ingredient list.
March 7, 2017
Our office enjoyed the green beans delightful explosion of flavors in your mouth a country feel and oh so good.
Do you drain the bacon grease after it has been lightly browned?
No, you cook the green beans in the bacon grease. Not low calorie, but it is delicious!
December 31, 2015
I make this recipe every holiday and the whole family just raves about it! BEST GREEN BEANS EVER!!
YOU SHOULD USE "FRESH GREEN BEANS"; IT IMPROVES THE TASTE.
July 16, 2009
Everyone loves these!!
June 5, 2008
This is an easy recipe and they test like the ones at cracker barrel! A definite keeper!
March 16, 2008
This recipe tastes just like the real thing. It has a real country flair. I omitted the sugar because I do not like my green beans sweet.
May 21, 2007
Just how they taste at Cracker Barrel. Everyone thought they were delicious at a church social.