Country Ranch Green Beans & Potatoes with Bacon – Rustic, Savory & Crowd-Pleasing
This Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes with Bacon recipe is the ultimate comfort side—tender potatoes, crisp green beans, and smoky bacon tossed in a creamy ranch seasoning blend. It’s a one-pan dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for potlucks, holiday dinners, or weeknight meals. Whether served alongside grilled meats or enjoyed on its own, this hearty combo brings farmhouse flavor to your table with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.
Equipment
- Large skillet, sheet pan, or Dutch oven
- Cutting board & sharp knife
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Slotted spoon
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs or spatula
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1½ lbs (680g) baby potatoes (red, gold, or fingerlings), halved or quartered
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet (1 oz / 28g) ranch seasoning mix (or homemade)
- ½ cup (120ml) chicken broth (unsalted if possible)
- 1 tbsp butter (optional, for richness)
- Fresh herbs (thyme or rosemary), optional
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Blanch Beans: Boil green beans in salted water for 3–4 minutes, then plunge into ice water. Drain and set aside.
- Cook Potatoes: In a pot of salted water, boil potatoes until just fork-tender (10–12 minutes). Drain well.
- Render Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon, reserving 1–2 tbsp bacon fat.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the bacon fat, cook onion until softened, then add garlic for 30 seconds.
- Combine & Season: Add potatoes to the skillet, browning slightly. Stir in green beans, ranch seasoning, and chicken broth. Toss until heated through and coated.
- Finish: Stir in butter if using, sprinkle with fresh herbs, and top with bacon before serving.
Notes
- Bold Tip: Taste before adding extra salt — ranch seasoning and bacon are already salty.
- For extra crisp potatoes, roast them on a sheet pan at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes before combining.
- Make ahead by blanching beans and boiling potatoes in advance; finish in skillet before serving.
- Variations: Swap bacon for pancetta or turkey bacon, add mushrooms or peppers, or use sweet potatoes for a twist.