green beans slow cooker recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best green beans slow cooker recipe

I have been making green beans in my slow cooker for years now and it is one of those recipes that just works every single time. My kids used to turn up their noses at green beans but the slow cooker makes them so tender and flavorful that even my pickiest eater asks for seconds. The best part is that you can just toss everything in the pot in the morning and forget about it until dinner time.

This recipe has become a staple in our house for weeknight dinners and holiday gatherings alike. Green beans are packed with vitamins A C and K plus they are a great source of fiber. When you cook them low and slow in the slow cooker they soak up all the flavors from the broth bacon or seasonings you add.

The result is a side dish that is soft but not mushy with a rich savory taste that goes with almost any main course. I love that I can use fresh or frozen green beans and they always turn out perfectly tender. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you need a hands off side dish.

You can prep the green beans in just a few minutes and let the slow cooker do the rest. The smell that fills your kitchen as they cook is amazing and your family will think you spent hours on them. I often make a double batch because they are just that good and they reheat beautifully for leftovers.

Whether you are serving them alongside a Sunday roast a weeknight chicken dinner or a holiday turkey these slow cooker green beans are always a hit. They are one of those recipes that feels special but is actually so simple to make. I hope you give them a try and see how easy and delicious they are.

Slow Cooker Green Beans

4.7 from 1945 votes

Tender slow cooked green beans with bacon and onion in a savory broth. This easy side dish is perfect for holidays or weeknight dinners and requires minimal prep.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time4 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time4 hours 10 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 120 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Green Beans

2 pounds fresh green beans trimmed and halved
6 slices bacon chopped
1 medium yellow onion diced
2 cloves garlic minced
1 cup low sodium chicken broth
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the chopped bacon.
2Cook the bacon for 5 to 7 minutes stirring occasionally until it is crispy and the fat has rendered.
3Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel lined plate and set aside.
4Add the diced onion to the skillet with the bacon drippings and cook over medium heat for 4 to 5 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
5Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
6Do not let the garlic burn.
7Place the trimmed green beans in the slow cooker and add the cooked onion and garlic mixture.
8Pour the chicken broth over the top and add the butter salt pepper and smoked paprika.
9Stir everything together until the beans are well coated.
10Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours.
11The green beans are done when they are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
12About 15 minutes before serving stir in the cooked bacon and let it heat through.
13Taste the green beans and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
14Serve the beans warm directly from the slow cooker or transfer them to a serving dish.
15Garnish with fresh parsley or additional bacon bits if desired.

🔧Equipment

Slow cooker (5 to 6 quart)
Large skillet
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 120 kcal🧈Total Fat: 7g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 15mg🧂Sodium: 520mg🌾Total Carbs: 10g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 5g

📝Notes

You can use frozen green beans instead of fresh. Thaw them first and reduce the cooking time by about 30 minutes. For a vegetarian version skip the bacon and use vegetable broth and add a tablespoon of olive oil instead of bacon drippings.

Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Green Beans Works

These slow cooker green beans are one of those recipes I make over and over because they are so reliable and delicious. You can store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days and they reheat really well in the microwave or on the stovetop.

I like to serve them with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving to brighten up the flavors. This dish works for everything from a casual weeknight dinner to a big holiday feast.

The slow cooker does all the work so you can focus on other dishes or just relax with your family. I truly believe this recipe will become a favorite in your home just like it is in mine.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Green Beans

1. Can I use frozen green beans in this slow cooker recipe?

Yes you can use frozen green beans. Thaw them completely and drain any excess water before adding them to the slow cooker. Reduce the cooking time by about 30 minutes since frozen beans cook faster than fresh ones.

2. How do I keep the green beans from getting mushy?

To avoid mushy green beans cook them on low heat for the shorter end of the time range. Check them at the 3 hour mark if cooking on low. Also make sure you do not add too much liquid as the beans release their own water as they cook.

3. Can I make this recipe without bacon?

Absolutely. Omit the bacon and use 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter to cook the onions and garlic. You can also add a teaspoon of liquid smoke to the broth for a smoky flavor without the meat.

4. How long can I store leftover slow cooker green beans?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months but the texture may be softer after thawing.

5. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Yes you can add diced potatoes carrots or mushrooms. Add them at the beginning of cooking since they take about the same time as the green beans. Just chop them into similar sized pieces so they cook evenly.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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