Introduction
Craving a hearty, Southern-inspired side dish or one-pot meal that’s perfect for a comforting family dinner or a special occasion like Valentine’s Day? Slow Cooker Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes with Bacon is your answer! Adapted from the original stovetop recipe, this slow cooker version combines tender green beans, baby potatoes, smoky bacon, and a zesty ranch seasoning blend, all simmered in a savory broth. Ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or a cozy holiday meal, this dish delivers bold, rustic flavors with minimal effort. Ready to discover how simple it is to create this crowd-pleasing favorite? Let’s get cooking!
Overview
Slow Cooker Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes with Bacon is a flavorful, Southern-style dish featuring fresh or frozen green beans, baby potatoes, crispy bacon, onions, garlic, and ranch seasoning, cooked in chicken broth with thyme and rosemary, and optionally garnished with fresh herbs. The slow cooker makes it hands-off and deeply flavorful, perfect for a fuss-free side or main dish.
- Time Requirement: 15 minutes prep, 4–6 hours on low or 2–3 hours on high.
- Difficulty Level: Easy! Ideal for beginners, with minimal prep and no advanced cooking skills needed.
- Why It’s Special: This recipe is budget-friendly, versatile, and packed with smoky, savory, and herbaceous flavors. The slow cooker ensures tender vegetables and melded seasonings, while the bacon adds a rich, indulgent touch. It’s gluten-free (with gluten-free ranch seasoning), perfect for family dinners, holiday sides, or meal prep with a comforting, ranch-infused twist.
Whether you’re serving it alongside a roast or enjoying it as a standalone dish, this Slow Cooker Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes with Bacon is sure to impress. Let’s dive in!
Essential Ingredients
The magic of Slow Cooker Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes with Bacon lies in its simple, high-quality ingredients. Each one adds flavor, texture, or savoriness to create a harmonious dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Fresh Green Beans (1 lb, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces):
- Why it’s important: Adds crisp-tender texture and vibrant color to the dish.
- Substitutions: Frozen green beans (no need to thaw, reduce cooking time by 30 minutes), or asparagus for a different flavor.
- Baby Potatoes (1 lb, halved or quartered):
- Why it’s important: Provides hearty, starchy texture that absorbs the savory broth.
- Substitutions: Red potatoes, Yukon Gold, or sweet potatoes (adjust cooking time slightly for sweet potatoes).
- Bacon (6 slices, diced):
- Why it’s important: Adds smoky, savory depth and a crispy contrast.
- Substitutions: Turkey bacon, pancetta, or smoked tempeh for vegetarian (sauté separately if using tempeh).
- Onion (1 medium, finely chopped):
- Why it’s important: Brings sweet, savory depth to the base.
- Substitutions: Shallots, leeks, or 1 tsp onion powder.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced):
- Why it’s important: Infuses the dish with warm, aromatic flavor.
- Substitutions: ½ tsp garlic powder or 1 tsp garlic paste.
- Ranch Seasoning Mix (1 packet, 1 oz):
- Why it’s important: Adds tangy, herbaceous flavor with notes of dill, parsley, and buttermilk.
- Substitutions: 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), or Italian seasoning for a different profile.
- Chicken Broth (1 cup):
- Why it’s important: Provides moisture and enhances the savory flavor.
- Substitutions: Vegetable broth, water with a bouillon cube, or low-sodium broth.
- Dried Thyme (1 tsp):
- Why it’s important: Adds earthy, herbaceous notes to complement the ranch seasoning.
- Substitutions: Fresh thyme (1 tbsp), or oregano.
- Dried Rosemary (1 tsp):
- Why it’s important: Brings woody, aromatic flavor to the dish.
- Substitutions: Fresh rosemary (1 tbsp), or sage.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste):
- Why it’s important: Enhances the flavors of the vegetables and bacon.
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp, optional):
- Why it’s important: Used if bacon is lean to sauté onions and garlic.
- Substitutions: Butter, avocado oil, or omit if bacon fat is sufficient.
- Fresh Parsley, Oregano, or Basil (optional, for garnish):
- Why it’s important: Adds a fresh, vibrant finish and pop of color.
- Substitutions: Chives, cilantro, or omit.
Tip: Use fresh green beans for the best texture, and choose a high-quality bacon for maximum flavor impact.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Slow Cooker Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes with Bacon is a breeze, with the slow cooker doing most of the work for a flavorful, hands-off dish. Follow these steps for a delicious result.
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 6 diced bacon slices until crispy, about 8–10 minutes.
- Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
- Reserve 1–2 tbsp bacon fat in the skillet for sautéing (or use 1 tbsp olive oil if bacon is lean).
- Tip: Cook bacon in batches if needed to ensure even crisping.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
- In the same skillet with bacon fat (or olive oil), add 1 finely chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves.
- Sauté over medium heat for 4–5 minutes until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Set aside.
- Tip: Scrape up any bacon bits in the skillet for extra flavor while sautéing.
Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker
- Lightly grease the slow cooker insert with cooking spray or a thin layer of oil to prevent sticking.
- Add 1 lb trimmed and cut green beans and 1 lb halved or quartered baby potatoes to the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle with 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp dried rosemary, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Add the sautéed onions and garlic, then pour in 1 cup chicken broth.
- Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Tip: Layer potatoes on the bottom for even cooking, as they take slightly longer than green beans.
Step 4: Cook
- Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until the green beans and potatoes are tender but not mushy.
- Check doneness at the lower end of the time to avoid overcooking, as slow cookers vary.
- Tip: Stir halfway through if possible to ensure even cooking, but avoid overmixing to keep vegetables intact.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
- Stir in the crispy bacon, reserving some for garnish if desired.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Transfer to a serving dish or serve directly from the slow cooker, garnished with fresh parsley, oregano, or basil for a vibrant finish.
- Serve hot as a side dish or a standalone meal, ideally with cornbread or a protein like roasted chicken.
- Tip: If the dish is too liquidy, cook uncovered on high for 10–15 minutes to reduce the broth.
Assembly
Assembling Slow Cooker Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes with Bacon is all about creating a rustic, comforting plate. Here’s how to bring it together:
- Serve the Dish: Spoon a generous portion of green beans, potatoes, and bacon into a serving dish or individual bowls, ensuring a good mix of vegetables and broth.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with crispy bacon pieces and fresh parsley, oregano, or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
- Presentation Tips:
- Use a shallow, rustic serving dish to highlight the vibrant green beans and golden potatoes.
- Serve family-style in the slow cooker insert for a cozy, communal vibe, or plate individually for a polished look.
- Pair with mashed potatoes, grilled pork chops, or a wedge salad for a complete Southern-inspired meal, perfect for a Valentine’s Day side dish.
Tip: For a romantic touch, garnish with a sprinkle of edible flowers or serve in heart-shaped bowls for Valentine’s Day.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Keep your Slow Cooker Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes with Bacon fresh and ready to enjoy with these tips:
- Storing Leftovers:
- Store cooled mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave (1–2 minutes, stirring halfway) or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth to restore moisture. Re-crisp bacon separately in a skillet if desired.
- Make-Ahead Tips:
- Ingredients: Trim green beans, chop potatoes, onion, and garlic, and cook bacon up to 2 days in advance, storing separately in the fridge.
- Assembly: Combine all ingredients (except bacon garnish) in the slow cooker insert the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Start cooking in the morning.
- Full Dish: Cook the dish a day ahead; flavors deepen overnight. Reheat gently, adding extra broth if needed, and stir in fresh bacon before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze cooled mixture (without bacon garnish) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat with extra broth. Add freshly cooked bacon to restore crispiness, as frozen bacon loses texture.
Tip: Use leftovers in a breakfast hash with eggs, a casserole with cheese, or as a filling for savory pies.
Recipe Variations
Slow Cooker Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes with Bacon is versatile and easy to customize. Try these creative twists:
- Spicy Kick: Add ½ tsp red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño with the onions for a spicy twist.
- Veggie Boost: Include sliced carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added color and nutrition, cooking for the full time.
- Cheesy Finish: Stir in ½ cup shredded cheddar or Parmesan in the last 10 minutes for a creamy, indulgent touch.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap bacon for smoked tempeh or omit and use olive oil for sautéing, and use vegetable broth.
- Herb Swap: Replace thyme and rosemary with dill, tarragon, or a Cajun seasoning blend for a different flavor profile.
Tip: Keep the ranch seasoning and bacon for the signature Southern vibe, but adjust veggies or herbs to suit your taste.
Conclusion
You’re now ready to make Slow Cooker Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes with Bacon—a dish that’s as comforting as it is flavorful! With its tender vegetables, smoky bacon, and zesty ranch-infused broth, this recipe brings Southern warmth to your table with minimal effort. It’s perfect for Valentine’s Day sides, family dinners, or meal prep with a rustic twist. Play with spices, veggies, or garnishes to make it your own, and enjoy the process as much as the meal. Grab your slow cooker, whip up this hearty masterpiece, and savor every delicious bite. Happy cooking!
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Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes
Description
Ingredients
- Fresh Green Beans (1 lb, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces):
- Why it’s important: Adds crisp-tender texture and vibrant color to the dish.
- Substitutions: Frozen green beans (no need to thaw, reduce cooking time by 30 minutes), or asparagus for a different flavor.
- Baby Potatoes (1 lb, halved or quartered):
- Why it’s important: Provides hearty, starchy texture that absorbs the savory broth.
- Substitutions: Red potatoes, Yukon Gold, or sweet potatoes (adjust cooking time slightly for sweet potatoes).
- Bacon (6 slices, diced):
- Why it’s important: Adds smoky, savory depth and a crispy contrast.
- Substitutions: Turkey bacon, pancetta, or smoked tempeh for vegetarian (sauté separately if using tempeh).
- Onion (1 medium, finely chopped):
- Why it’s important: Brings sweet, savory depth to the base.
- Substitutions: Shallots, leeks, or 1 tsp onion powder.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced):
- Why it’s important: Infuses the dish with warm, aromatic flavor.
- Substitutions: ½ tsp garlic powder or 1 tsp garlic paste.
- Ranch Seasoning Mix (1 packet, 1 oz):
- Why it’s important: Adds tangy, herbaceous flavor with notes of dill, parsley, and buttermilk.
- Substitutions: 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), or Italian seasoning for a different profile.
- Chicken Broth (1 cup):
- Why it’s important: Provides moisture and enhances the savory flavor.
- Substitutions: Vegetable broth, water with a bouillon cube, or low-sodium broth.
- Dried Thyme (1 tsp):
- Why it’s important: Adds earthy, herbaceous notes to complement the ranch seasoning.
- Substitutions: Fresh thyme (1 tbsp), or oregano.
- Dried Rosemary (1 tsp):
- Why it’s important: Brings woody, aromatic flavor to the dish.
- Substitutions: Fresh rosemary (1 tbsp), or sage.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste):
- Why it’s important: Enhances the flavors of the vegetables and bacon.
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp, optional):
- Why it’s important: Used if bacon is lean to sauté onions and garlic.
- Substitutions: Butter, avocado oil, or omit if bacon fat is sufficient.
- Fresh Parsley, Oregano, or Basil (optional, for garnish):
- Why it’s important: Adds a fresh, vibrant finish and pop of color.
- Substitutions: Chives, cilantro, or omit.
Tip: Use fresh green beans for the best texture, and choose a high-quality bacon for maximum flavor impact.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 6 diced bacon slices until crispy, about 8–10 minutes.
- Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
- Reserve 1–2 tbsp bacon fat in the skillet for sautéing (or use 1 tbsp olive oil if bacon is lean).
- Tip: Cook bacon in batches if needed to ensure even crisping.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
- In the same skillet with bacon fat (or olive oil), add 1 finely chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves.
- Sauté over medium heat for 4–5 minutes until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Set aside.
- Tip: Scrape up any bacon bits in the skillet for extra flavor while sautéing.
Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker
- Lightly grease the slow cooker insert with cooking spray or a thin layer of oil to prevent sticking.
- Add 1 lb trimmed and cut green beans and 1 lb halved or quartered baby potatoes to the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle with 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp dried rosemary, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Add the sautéed onions and garlic, then pour in 1 cup chicken broth.
- Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Tip: Layer potatoes on the bottom for even cooking, as they take slightly longer than green beans.
Step 4: Cook
- Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until the green beans and potatoes are tender but not mushy.
- Check doneness at the lower end of the time to avoid overcooking, as slow cookers vary.
- Tip: Stir halfway through if possible to ensure even cooking, but avoid overmixing to keep vegetables intact.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
- Stir in the crispy bacon, reserving some for garnish if desired.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Transfer to a serving dish or serve directly from the slow cooker, garnished with fresh parsley, oregano, or basil for a vibrant finish.
- Serve hot as a side dish or a standalone meal, ideally with cornbread or a protein like roasted chicken.
- Tip: If the dish is too liquidy, cook uncovered on high for 10–15 minutes to reduce the broth
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
A: Yes! Frozen green beans work well; add them without thawing and reduce cooking time by about 30 minutes to prevent mushiness.
Q: Is this recipe healthy?
A: It’s veggie-packed but higher in fat and sodium due to bacon and ranch seasoning. Use turkey bacon, low-sodium broth, or less seasoning for a lighter option.
Q: Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
A: Yes! Use the “Slow Cooker” function with the same times, or cook on high pressure for 8–10 minutes with a quick release, ensuring potatoes are tender.
Q: Why are my potatoes mushy?
A: Overcooking or cutting potatoes too small can cause mushiness. Cut potatoes into larger chunks and check doneness early to avoid overcooking.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian or vegan?
A: Yes! Swap bacon for smoked tempeh or omit, use vegetable broth, and ensure ranch seasoning is vegan (or use a homemade blend). Cook for the same time.
Q: What mains go well with this dish?
A: Pair with roasted turkey, grilled sausage, or meatloaf. A glass of iced tea or a light white wine complements the savory flavors, perfect for a Valentine’s Day meal!
