Creole Style Beans
Creole Style Beans blend smoky bacon, tender vegetables, and savory tomatoes with a touch of sweetness, perfect for comforting family meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook bacon until crisp, then remove from skillet.
- Add chopped onion and green pepper to all drippings; cook until tender.
- Blend in flour, brown sugar, salt, and pepper; cook briefly.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cook until thickened.
- Stir in green beans and heat through.
- Top with cooked bacon.
- Transfer to a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a dash of liquid smoke. If you're short on time, canned green beans are a great shortcut; however, fresh or frozen beans can enhance the texture. Feel free to substitute brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile. For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Creole Style Beans as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats like Horry County Chicken Bog or a fresh Parmesan Salad for a balanced meal. They also pair well with cornbread or rice, soaking up the delicious sauce. For added flavor, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or green onions before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Creole Style Beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them in a covered dish, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creole Style Beans contains roughly 180 calories, with 4g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (69% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1349mg per serving (59% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the bacon and using olive oil for sautéing. Adding smoked paprika can help replicate the smoky flavor that bacon provides. You may also consider using vegetarian bacon alternatives if desired.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the beans?
If you find the beans too sweet, simply reduce the amount of brown sugar, or omit it entirely. You can balance the sweetness with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice, which will brighten the dish without overpowering it.
Can I use frozen green beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! Frozen green beans are a great alternative to canned ones. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the dish. They will provide a fresher taste and a better texture compared to canned green beans.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).