Saucy Green Beans
Saucy Green Beans combine tender green beans with a rich, creamy sauce infused with bacon, onions, and fresh parsley. The tangy vinegar adds a bright note, making it a flavorful side dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions, appealing to those who enjoy savory, comforting vegetables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place green beans in a large saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil.
- Cook uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes or until crisp-tender.
- Meanwhile, in a separate saucepan, sauté chopped onion in butter until softened.
- Stir in flour and sugar, cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in milk and cook until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in sour cream, minced parsley, and white vinegar.
- Crumble cooked bacon strips and add to the sauce.
- Drain green beans and add them to the sauce, tossing to coat.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a variation, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. Fresh green beans can be swapped with frozen ones, but adjust cooking times accordingly. This dish also pairs well with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the saucy green beans as a delightful side dish alongside grilled meats or baked chicken. They also pair wonderfully with pork recipes, adding a creamy texture to the meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving with Crisp Potato Squares or a fresh salad like Layered Salad With Sweet Onions for a balanced plate.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to the saucepan to help restore creaminess. Gently warm over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the green beans mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Saucy Green Beans contains roughly 1301 calories, with 15g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 107g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (37% of the Daily Value) and protein (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 763mg per serving (33% 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 use canned green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned green beans; just be sure to drain and rinse them before adding to the sauce. Canned beans are already cooked, so you only need to heat them through in the sauce, which will save time.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and use a plant-based butter substitute. You can also enhance the flavor by adding smoked paprika to mimic the smokiness that bacon provides.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and green beans ahead of time. Simply combine them before serving and heat gently on the stove. This dish can also be a great make-ahead option for gatherings, as the flavors meld beautifully.
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).