Slow Cooker Green Beans are a simple, hands-off side dish that yields tender, flavorful green beans with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings, this recipe allows the green beans to cook low and slow, absorbing savory seasonings and the richness of butter or bacon. The result is a deliciously seasoned, melt-in-your-mouth green bean dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses. With just a few ingredients, you can prepare a comforting vegetable side that’s easy to make and will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-2 inch pieces
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (or bacon drippings for extra flavor)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds or crispy bacon bits (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Green Beans: Trim the ends of the green beans and cut them into smaller, bite-sized pieces. Rinse them well and set aside.
- Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: Add the prepared green beans to the slow cooker. In a separate pan, melt the butter (or heat bacon drippings) over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Season and Cook: Pour the sautéed onion and garlic mixture over the green beans in the slow cooker. Add the salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and chicken broth. Stir everything together until the beans are evenly coated. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the green beans are tender.
- Finish and Serve: Once the green beans are tender, give them a quick stir and taste to adjust seasoning if necessary. For added crunch and flavor, garnish with sliced almonds or crispy bacon bits before serving.
These Slow Cooker Green Beans are a convenient and delicious way to prepare a classic vegetable side dish. With minimal prep time and the slow cooker doing most of the work, they’re perfect for any occasion!
