This rustic dish brings together tender baby potatoes, crisp green beans, and smoky bacon, all tossed in a savory ranch seasoning blend. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like home—simple, satisfying, and full of flavor. Whether served as a side for roasted meats or enjoyed on its own, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The ranch seasoning adds a zesty kick, while the bacon infuses everything with irresistible richness. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s as easy to make as it is to devour.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups baby potatoes (or 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced)
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy.
- Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan for added flavor.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
- Add diced onion to the bacon drippings and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Brown the Potatoes
- Add the diced potatoes to the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to brown.
- This step adds a crispy texture and enhances the flavor.
4. Add Green Beans and Seasonings
- Stir in the green beans, ranch seasoning, thyme, rosemary, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Simmer Until Tender
- Cover the skillet and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes and green beans are tender and the broth has mostly absorbed.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Finish with Bacon
- Return the cooked bacon to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
7. Serve Warm
- Serve directly from the skillet or transfer to a serving dish.
- Garnish with extra bacon or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled or roasted chicken
- Pork chops or sausages
- Meatloaf or steak
- Or serve it solo with a slice of crusty bread for a cozy, rustic meal
Variations & Tips:
- Vegetarian version: Skip the bacon and use olive oil or butter for sautéing.
- Extra veggies: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or corn for more color and texture.
- Cheesy twist: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Parmesan over the top before serving.
- Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
⏱️ Time & Yield:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: ~45 minutes
- Serves: 6–8
Would you like a printable version of this recipe or a visual step-by-step guide? I can also help you turn this into a foil-pack version for grilling or camping!