If you’re on the fence about green beans, or already a devoted fan, prepare to be converted (or further convinced!). These Pioneer Woman Crack Green Beans are not your average veggie side. They are intensely flavorful, boasting a savory-sweet profile that’s utterly irresistible. Seriously, these green beans are so good, they have been known to turn even the most ardent green bean skeptics into believers. The magic? A luscious sauce, smoky bacon, and the richness of butter – a combination that elevates simple green beans to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Why We Call Them “Crack” Green Beans
The name says it all! “Crack Green Beans” is a testament to how addictive this dish truly is. It’s that recipe you find yourself craving seconds (and maybe even thirds) of, sneaking bites straight from the pan, and eagerly anticipating leftovers (if there are any!).
What’s even better? This green bean recipe is incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks. While there’s a little measuring involved, the process is straightforward: everything cooks together in one skillet on the stovetop. For a slower, more hands-off approach, you can even bake them in the oven.
Personally, I prefer the stovetop method for these crack green beans. It allows me to keep a closer eye on the sauce and, let’s be honest, sample them as they cook! You might also see this recipe referred to as Southern Crack Smothered Green Beans, Southern Crack Green Beans, or simply Southern Smothered Green Beans. No matter the name, one thing is certain: you’ll call them incredibly delicious.
Key Ingredients for Pioneer Woman Crack Green Beans
This recipe starts with humble canned green beans, making it a pantry-friendly option. For convenience, look for a large 38-ounce can, or use three 14.5-ounce cans.
Here’s what you’ll need to create this green bean magic:
- Canned green beans: The base of our addictive side dish.
- Bacon: Cooked until crispy and then crumbled. Bacon adds that signature smoky, salty flavor that takes these beans over the top.
- Brown sugar: Light brown sugar provides the perfect touch of sweetness to balance the savory elements.
- Butter: Half a stick of butter creates richness and helps develop a beautiful, glossy sauce.
- Soy sauce: Low sodium soy sauce adds depth and umami. We’re keeping the sodium in check, so low sodium is recommended.
- Garlic powder: For that essential savory garlic note.
- Onion powder: Adds a subtle oniony sweetness and complexity to the sauce.
For those interested in a truly from-scratch approach, you can even explore how to can green beans at home and use your own home-canned beans in this recipe!
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crack Green Beans
Let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make these irresistible green beans:
- Melt the butter: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat. This gentle heat prevents the butter from burning and creates a smooth base for the sauce.
- Whisk in the sauce ingredients: Add the brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder to the melted butter. Whisk everything together until smooth and well combined.
- Simmer the sauce: Cook the sauce over medium heat until it begins to bubble. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to slightly thicken.
- Add the green beans: Drain the canned green beans thoroughly and add them to the skillet. Toss to coat them evenly in the flavorful sauce.
- Cook and thicken: Continue to cook the green beans for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. As they cook, the sauce will reduce and thicken, clinging beautifully to the beans.
- Stir in the bacon: Add the crispy cooked bacon to the skillet and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring to incorporate the bacon throughout the dish.
- Serve and enjoy! These crack green beans are best served warm, allowing you to fully appreciate their saucy, savory-sweet goodness.
Expert Tips for Perfect Crack Green Beans
- Low and slow is key: Don’t rush the cooking process. Cooking the green beans slowly allows the sauce to develop maximum flavor and thicken properly.
- Sauce too thick? If the sauce becomes too thick or evaporates too quickly, simply add a tablespoon or two of water to thin it out and restore its saucy consistency.
- Lid on or off? You can place a lid on the skillet while cooking if you prefer slightly softer green beans.
- Bacon two ways: For extra texture, reserve half of the crispy bacon to sprinkle over the finished green beans as a crunchy topping and garnish.
Crack green beans with bacon in a skillet With a large silver spoon
Image: Close-up of crack green beans with bacon in a skillet, served with a large silver spoon, showcasing the rich sauce and crispy bacon.
Delicious Variations to Try
Want to customize your crack green beans? Here are a few tasty variations:
- Oven-baked crack green beans: Prepare the recipe up to step 5, then transfer the oven-safe skillet to a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Cover and bake for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat and sweet-spicy flavor.
- Peppery bacon: Use peppered bacon for an extra layer of flavor and a subtle peppery kick.
- Vegetarian option: Simply omit the bacon for delicious vegetarian crack green beans that are still packed with flavor.
- Add some crunch: Sprinkle chopped roasted peanuts over the top for added texture and nutty flavor.
- Soy-free option: Replace the low-sodium soy sauce with coconut aminos for a soy-free version.
Serving Suggestions for Pioneer Woman Crack Green Beans
These green beans are so flavorful, they could almost be a meal on their own! However, they shine as a versatile side dish. Try serving them alongside:
- Oven-roasted chicken: A classic pairing that’s always satisfying.
- Steak and potato kabobs: For a hearty and flavorful summer meal.
- Pork Nuggets: Crispy pork nuggets and saucy green beans are a match made in comfort food heaven.
How to Store Leftover Crack Green Beans
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is a big “if”!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a few days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crack Green Beans
Can I use fresh green beans?
While you can use fresh green beans, it will significantly increase the cooking time needed to achieve the desired tenderness. Canned green beans are recommended for this recipe as they are pre-cooked and readily absorb the flavorful sauce.
Are crack green beans gluten-free?
Traditional soy sauce contains gluten. To make this recipe gluten-free, be sure to use a gluten-free soy sauce or substitute with coconut aminos.
What do crack green beans taste like?
Imagine tender green beans coated in a thick, caramelized, sweet, and savory sauce. Add crispy, salty bacon, and you have a truly unforgettable side dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture.
Pioneer Woman Crack Green Beans Recipe
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Ingredients
- 38 oz can cut green beans (see notes below) drained
- 10 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 2/3 cup brown sugar
- 4 Tbsp butter
- 6 tsp low sodium soy sauce
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp onion powder
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet to medium/low heat. Add 4 tablespoons of butter to the skillet and melt. Whisk in the brown sugar, low sodium soy sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth. Cook on medium heat for a couple of minutes until it starts to bubble.
- Stir in the drained green beans, tossing to combine with the sauce. Cook on medium/low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken as it cooks.
- Stir in the bacon and cook for another 5 minutes on low heat. You can also choose to stir in half the bacon and use the other half to garnish the finished green beans for added texture.
Recipe Notes
If you can’t find a 38oz can of green beans, you can substitute with three 14.5oz cans. The bean-to-sauce ratio might be slightly different, but it will still be delicious!
Oven Instructions: Prepare the recipe up to step 5. Cover the oven-safe skillet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through the cooking time.
