Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman, is a culinary inspiration for many home cooks, and for good reason. Her recipes are approachable, flavorful, and family-friendly. Like many, I’ve long admired her work and often turn to her website when seeking a reliable and delicious dish. When the quest for the perfect green bean recipe began, it was natural to look to the Pioneer Woman for guidance.
This Pioneer Woman Green Bean Recipe has become a staple in my kitchen. It’s a simple yet incredibly flavorful way to cook fresh green beans that even vegetable skeptics will enjoy. My own “Bearded One,” not typically a fan of green beans, consistently clears his plate when these are served. That’s the magic of this recipe! It transforms humble green beans into a savory, slightly sweet, and deeply satisfying side dish.
Green beans and red bell pepper cooking in a skillet, showcasing the vibrant colors of the dish
Why This Pioneer Woman Green Bean Recipe is a Game Changer
What makes this green bean recipe stand out? It’s all about the depth of flavor and the beautiful balance of sweet and savory notes. Unlike many basic green bean preparations, this recipe incorporates aromatic garlic and onions, sweet red bell pepper, and savory chicken broth, all simmered together until the green beans are tender and slightly caramelized. The result is a green bean dish that’s far from bland or boring. It’s a side that complements a wide variety of main courses, from roasted chicken to grilled steak, and is perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter or bacon grease
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions for Pioneer Woman Green Beans
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Prep the Vegetables: Begin by washing and trimming the green beans. Chop the red bell pepper and onion into small, even pieces. Mince the garlic.
Chopped red pepper, onion, garlic and trimmed green beans, ready for cooking -
Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt butter or bacon grease over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté for about a minute, until fragrant but not browned.
Onions and garlic sauteing in butter in a skillet -
Add Green Beans and Broth: Add the trimmed green beans to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn bright green. Pour in the chicken broth and add the chopped red bell pepper. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Green beans, red pepper and chicken broth simmering in a skillet -
Simmer and Caramelize: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid slightly ajar (to allow steam to escape), and simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the green beans are tender-crisp and the liquid has mostly evaporated. Continue cooking, uncovered, for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the vegetables to begin to caramelize slightly in the skillet, enhancing their sweetness and flavor.
Green beans caramelizing in a skillet after simmering -
Serve and Enjoy: Once the green beans are tender, slightly caramelized, and coated in the flavorful sauce, they are ready to serve. Enjoy this delicious and easy Pioneer Woman green bean recipe as a side dish with your favorite meal. Prepare to be amazed at how quickly these green beans disappear!
Close-up of cooked Pioneer Woman green beans in a skillet, ready to be served
This Pioneer Woman green bean recipe is truly a winner. It’s a simple, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing side dish that will become a regular part of your cooking repertoire.
