Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large skillet: For cooking the green beans and potatoes.
- Cutting board and knife: For prepping the vegetables.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Serving dish: For presenting the finished dish.
How to Make Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes with Bacon
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Leave the bacon drippings in the skillet for added flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Potatoes
- In the same skillet, add the baby potatoes. If needed, add olive oil to coat the potatoes.
- Season with salt and pepper, and sauté the potatoes for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden and fork-tender.
Step 3: Add the Green Beans
- Once the potatoes are nearly cooked, add the trimmed green beans to the skillet.
- Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix over the vegetables and stir to combine. If using, add the chicken broth or water to help steam the green beans.
- Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the green beans are tender but still crisp.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Once the green beans are cooked, return the crispy bacon to the skillet and stir to combine everything.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove from heat.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and transfer to a serving dish.
Tips and Variations
Make It Vegetarian: Omit the bacon and use olive oil for a delicious vegetarian version of this dish. You can add sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
Potato Varieties: While baby potatoes work well, you can also use red or Yukon gold potatoes. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or carrots for added color and nutrition.
Flavor Enhancements: For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Refrigerator: Store any leftover Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes with Bacon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: To reheat, warm the dish in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with:
- Grilled Meats: Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or pork chops for a complete meal.
- Seafood: Pair with baked or grilled fish for a light and satisfying dinner.
- Salads: Offer a fresh green salad as a starter for a balanced meal.