Prepare to transform ordinary green beans into a Southern culinary masterpiece that will have your family begging for seconds! These Instant Pot Southern Green Beans are not just a side dish – they're a flavor-packed journey that combines crispy bacon, tender green beans, and a perfect blend of seasonings, all cooked to perfection in just 30 minutes. Say goodbye to bland vegetables and hello to a dish that brings the comfort of Southern cooking straight to your dinner table!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Wash and trim the green beans, removing any tough ends, and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Turn on the Instant Pot and select the Sauté function. Add chopped bacon and cook until it becomes crispy and releases its fat, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add chopped onions to the bacon and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, stirring occasionally, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the trimmed green beans to the pot and stir to combine with bacon and onions, coating them with the rendered bacon fat.
- Pour chicken broth into the pot, ensuring it covers the bottom of the pot to prevent burning.
- Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and garlic powder over the green beans, stirring to distribute seasonings evenly.
- Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to sealing position, and select Manual/Pressure Cook mode.
- Cook on high pressure for 5-6 minutes, depending on desired tenderness of green beans.
- Once cooking is complete, perform a quick release of pressure by carefully moving the valve to venting position.
- Open the lid, stir the green beans, and taste for seasoning, adjusting if needed.
- Transfer to a serving dish, allowing the beans to rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Green Beans: Select crisp, bright green beans without blemishes for the best texture and flavor.
- Bacon is Your Flavor Secret: Use thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor and ensure it's crispy before adding other ingredients.
- Don't Overcook: The beauty of the Instant Pot is quick cooking. Stick to 5-6 minutes of pressure cooking to keep beans tender-crisp.
- Liquid is Key: Always ensure there's enough chicken broth to prevent burning, but don't drown the beans.
- Quick Release Matters: Use the quick release method to stop the cooking process and prevent mushy beans.
- Season Generously: Don't be shy with garlic powder, salt, and pepper – they're the flavor boosters that make this dish sing!
- Let It Rest: Allow the beans to sit for a few minutes after cooking to let the flavors meld together perfectly.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg
