What makes this recipe particularly special is its simplicity and the way it brings together such familiar flavors. The ranch seasoning adds a tangy twist to the savory mix, creating an irresistible blend that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. And don’t even get me started on the bacon – it’s like the crown jewel of this dish, adding just the right amount of crunch and saltiness.
As I stirred in the green beans and watched the colors come together – the greens, reds, and golden browns – I knew we had a winner. It was like a tapestry of flavors and textures that you just want to dive into. And the best part? You can tweak it to suit your taste. Not a fan of too much heat? Skip the Tabasco. Prefer a bit more? Add a dash extra. This dish is as flexible as it is delightful, making it perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends.
The first bite was met with murmurs of approval, and before I knew it, the plates were practically licked clean. It’s the kind of dish that doesn’t just fill you up, but also brings a sense of togetherness that only a home-cooked meal can offer. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat your family to this easy yet oh-so-satisfying Country Ranch Green Beans ‘n Potatoes with Bacon. Trust me, they’ll thank you for it!
How to Make Country Ranch Green Beans ‘n Potatoes with Bacon
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Ingredients:
- 1 (14-ounce) can green beans, drained
- 2 medium red potatoes, diced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 small sweet onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons bacon grease
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Ranch seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon Tabasco sauce, optional
Directions:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter along with the bacon grease over medium-high heat until it begins to sizzle.
- Add the diced potatoes to the skillet, ensuring they are spread out in a single layer for even cooking. Let them cook for about 7 minutes, turning them once halfway through.
- Introduce the diced onion to the pan, stirring occasionally, and continue to cook for another 3 to 5 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the onion is softened.
- Stir in the drained green beans and crumbled bacon, mixing thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Season the mixture with Ranch seasoning and black pepper. If you enjoy a bit of spice, add the Tabasco sauce to your liking.
- Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring to ensure everything is heated through. Once done, remove from heat and serve immediately.
Ingredient Tweaks for Your Pantry
If you don’t have red potatoes, Yukon Gold or even russet potatoes work well. For a different spin, try adding fresh green beans instead of canned ones. You can also swap out bacon for turkey bacon to reduce calorie intake. No Ranch seasoning? Italian seasoning can be an interesting substitute!
Preserving Country Ranch Green Beans ‘n Potatoes for Later Enjoyment
To store leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the dish in a suitable container or freezer bag for up to a month. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through before serving.
Perfect Pairings for Country Ranch Green Beans ‘n Potatoes
This dish is delightful when paired with a fresh green salad or a loaf of crusty bread to mop up all those delicious flavors. A crisp, chilled glass of white wine or a light beer complements the richness beautifully. For an extra hearty meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or pork chops.
Cooking Hacks to Elevate Country Ranch Green Beans ‘n Potatoes
For perfectly crispy potatoes, ensure they’re fully dry before cooking. Adding the onion after the potatoes begin to brown prevents the onion from burning. Experiment with additional herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Adding a Seasonal Spin to Country Ranch Green Beans ‘n Potatoes
In the summer, use fresh garden beans and new potatoes. In the fall, incorporate roasted squash or sweet potatoes for a cozy variation. Winter calls for hearty root vegetables like parsnips or carrots. Springtime is perfect for adding asparagus or peas to lighten things up.
Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh green beans can be a great substitute for canned ones. Simply trim and cut them into bite-sized pieces, then blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes before adding them to the skillet. This will ensure they’re tender yet still have a pleasant crunch.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the bacon and using olive oil instead of bacon grease. Add extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers to enhance the flavors. You might also want to sprinkle some smoked paprika for that smoky flavor without using bacon.
How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking to the skillet?
To prevent sticking, ensure your skillet is preheated before adding the butter and bacon grease. Also, avoid moving the potatoes too soon, allowing them to develop a natural crust. If you’re still having trouble, consider using a non-stick pan or adding a little extra fat to the skillet.
What type of onion is best for this recipe?
Sweet onions are recommended for this recipe due to their mild flavor and natural sweetness, which complements the savory elements. However, if you prefer a sharper taste, yellow or white onions work as well. Red onions can add a nice color contrast and a slightly different flavor profile.
How spicy is this dish with Tabasco sauce?
The spiciness from Tabasco sauce is quite mild, especially if you stick to the lower end of the suggested amount. It adds a subtle kick that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering it. Feel free to adjust the quantity based on your heat preference or omit it if you prefer a milder dish.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, this dish can be prepared in advance. Simply follow the recipe through step 5, then let the mixture cool before storing it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat gently in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent drying out. This makes it a convenient option for meal prepping or entertaining.
Country Ranch Green Beans 'n Potatoes with Bacon
Equipment
- large skillet
Ingredients
- 1 14-ounce can green beans drained
- 2 medium red potatoes diced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 4 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- 1 small sweet onion diced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons bacon grease
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Ranch seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon Tabasco sauce optional
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the bacon grease and the butter.
- Add the diced potatoes to the skillet and cook for approximately 7 minutes, turning halfway for uniform cooking.
- Introduce the diced onion into the skillet. Continue cooking for another 3 to 5 minutes until the potatoes soften.
- Incorporate the green beans, crumbled bacon, Ranch seasoning, black pepper, and optional Tabasco sauce. Mix well and allow to heat through before serving.
