Old Fashioned Green Beans with Bacon and Onion – Green Beans Like Grandma Used to Make Recipe
Introduction
This Old Fashioned Green Beans with Bacon and Onion recipe brings a comforting, home-cooked flavor reminiscent of grandma’s kitchen. Tender green beans and new potatoes are simmered with savory bacon and onions for a hearty side dish everyone will love.

Ingredients
- 6 – 8 cups fresh green beans (washed, snapped, and broken into bite-sized pieces)
- 6 – 7 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons Better than Chicken Bouillon
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Water, to cover
- 6 – 8 small new potatoes or 2 large new potatoes cut into smaller pieces
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large skillet, add the chopped bacon and cook over medium-low heat until the fat starts to render and the bottom of the pan is coated with grease.
- Step 2: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until softened but not browned.
- Step 3: Add the prepared green beans, new potatoes, Better than Chicken Bouillon, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Pour in just enough water to cover the beans.
- Step 4: Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the green beans reach your desired tenderness. Do not let all the water evaporate; add a little more water if the skillet becomes too dry.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, use smoked bacon to enhance the smoky taste.
- Substitute Better than Chicken Bouillon with vegetable bouillon for a vegetarian version (omit bacon in that case).
- Try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
- Use fresh green beans if possible for the best texture and flavor.
Storage
Store leftover green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen green beans can be used, but reduce the cooking time since they are already partially cooked. Adjust water accordingly.
How do I know when the green beans are done?
The green beans should be tender but still slightly crisp. Test by tasting a piece—if it’s soft but not mushy, they are ready.
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Old Fashioned Green Beans with Bacon and Onion – Green Beans Like Grandma Used to Make Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Old Fashioned Green Beans with Bacon and Onion is a nostalgic, hearty side dish featuring fresh green beans cooked with crispy bacon, sautéed onions, and tender new potatoes. This rustic recipe brings the comforting flavors of a classic home-cooked meal, with the savory richness of bacon and the subtle depth from chicken bouillon seasoning, resulting in green beans just like grandma used to make.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 6 – 8 cups fresh green beans, washed, snapped, and broken into bite-sized pieces
- 6 – 8 small new potatoes or 2 large new potatoes, cut into smaller pieces
- 1 medium onion, chopped
Meat
- 6 – 7 slices bacon, chopped
Seasonings and Others
- 2 tablespoons Better than Chicken Bouillon
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Water, enough to cover green beans in skillet
Instructions
- Cook Bacon: In a large skillet, add the chopped bacon and cook over medium-low heat until the fat begins to render and the bottom of the pan is coated with grease, creating a flavorful base for the dish.
- Sauté Onions: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the bacon grease and sauté until the onions are softened but not browned, enhancing their natural sweetness and aroma.
- Add Green Beans and Potatoes: Stir in the prepared green beans, new potatoes, Better than Chicken Bouillon, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Pour just enough water to cover the beans and potatoes, ensuring they cook evenly while absorbing flavors.
- Simmer Until Tender: Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the green beans and potatoes reach your desired tenderness. Monitor the water level closely and add a little more if it evaporates too much to prevent the dish from drying out.
Notes
- Use fresh green beans for the best texture and flavor; frozen green beans will not produce the same result.
- The bacon grease adds richness, so avoid draining it while cooking the onions and vegetables.
- If you prefer vegetarian, omit the bacon and substitute vegetable bouillon instead of chicken bouillon.
- New potatoes work best for this dish as they hold their shape during cooking.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to taste preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American Southern
Keywords: green beans, bacon, onion, new potatoes, southern side dish, comfort food, old fashioned green beans

