Are you in search of a delightful and satisfying side dish that will impress at any gathering? This Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes with Bacon recipe combines the rich flavors of crispy bacon, tender baby potatoes, and fresh green beans, all enhanced by a tangy ranch seasoning. It is simple to prepare and brimming with taste, making it an excellent choice for family meals, potlucks, or even as a robust standalone option.
Ingredients:
1 lb fresh green beans (trimmed)
1 lb baby potatoes (halved or quartered if large)
6-8 slices of bacon (cut into bite-sized pieces)
1 packet of dry ranch seasoning mix (approximately 1 oz)
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for garnish)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Bacon:
In a large skillet or frying pan, cook the bacon over medium heat until it reaches a crispy texture. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the skillet.
1. Preparation of the Potatoes:
Begin by placing the baby potatoes into the skillet containing the reserved bacon grease. Cook them over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they achieve a golden-brown color and are tender when pierced with a fork, which should take approximately 10 to 15 minutes. To expedite the cooking process, you may cover the skillet. Season the potatoes with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, if desired.
Preparation of the Green Beans:
While the potatoes are cooking, bring a pot of water to a rolling boil and blanch the green beans for 3 to 4 minutes. After blanching, drain the beans and promptly transfer them to an ice bath to halt the cooking process, ensuring they remain crisp and vibrant.
Combining the Ingredients:
Once the potatoes are fully cooked, incorporate the blanched green beans into the skillet. Drizzle olive oil over the mixture, followed by a sprinkling of dry ranch seasoning. Stir thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well-coated with the seasoning. Allow the mixture to cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
Incorporating Bacon:
Add the crispy bacon pieces back into the skillet and toss all ingredients together, ensuring an even distribution of the bacon and ranch seasoning.
Optional Garnish:
For an enhanced flavor profile, consider sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley over the dish.
Serving:
Serve the dish warm as a delightful side to complement your preferred main course. Enjoy your meal!
