Cracker Barrel Green Beans Recipe

Cracker Barrel green beans are a beloved side dish that you can easily recreate at home!

With just a few simple ingredients like bacon, onion, sugar, and canned green beans, you can enjoy a dish that brings back memories of this favorite restaurant.

I can’t stop falling in love with the way the bacon flavor infuses the beans, making them tender and delicious.

An important tip is to let the green beans simmer for a full 45 minutes to get that perfect, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Don’t rush this step!

Try adding your touch with fresh green beans or even a hint of garlic for extra flavor.

How to Make Cracker Barrel Green Beans Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 slices Bacon
• 3 cans Green Beans (14.5 oz. each)
• 1 large Yellow Onion (sliced)
• 2 tsp Sugar
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1 tsp Black Pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Place a 2-quart saucepan over medium heat.

Step 2:

Cook the bacon until it is lightly browned, but not crispy.

Step 3:

Add the green beans, including their liquid, into the saucepan.

Step 4:

Add the sliced onion on top of the green beans.

Step 5:

Season with sugar, salt, and black pepper, stirring to combine.

Step 6:

Cover the saucepan with a lid and bring to a light boil.

Step 7:

Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 45 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

Step 8:

Give the mixture a gentle stir before serving.

Tips and Tricks for This Recipe

Let the Onion Cook Thoroughly

Make sure the onion slices are placed on top of the green beans to allow them to cook down properly without overcooking the beans.

Avoid Stirring Too Much

Stirring the green beans too much during simmering can cause them to break apart, so try to avoid stirring more than necessary.

Adjust the Seasoning

Feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to your taste preference once the dish is cooked. Adding more or less can make a big difference in flavor.

Use Fresh Green Beans

For an even fresher taste, you can use fresh green beans instead of canned. Just make sure to cook them until tender.

Opt for Low Sodium Ingredients

If you are watching your salt intake, use low sodium bacon and green beans to help control the overall salt content of the dish.

Enjoy your Cracker Barrel Green Beans!

What to Serve with Cracker Barrel Green Beans

Classic Southern Cornbread

Nothing beats a slice of warm cornbread alongside your green beans.

The sweet and slightly crumbly texture pairs perfectly with the savory, tender beans.

Whether you prefer it plain or with a touch of honey, cornbread is a fantastic addition.

Mashed Potatoes

Smooth, creamy mashed potatoes are another great option.

Their rich, buttery flavor contrasts nicely with the smoky taste of the beans.

You can even combine a bite of mashed potatoes and green beans for a delightful blend of textures.

Fried Chicken

For a more hearty meal, consider serving fried chicken.

The crispy, golden crust and juicy meat complement the green beans wonderfully.

It’s a classic combination that’s sure to satisfy.

Garlic Rosemary Roasted Carrots

For something a bit different, try garlic rosemary roasted carrots.

The sweet and aromatic flavors make a lovely match with the bacon-infused green beans.

These carrots add a pop of color and a fresh taste to your plate.

Lemon Risotto

Lemon risotto may be unexpected, but it pairs beautifully with green beans.

The bright, citrusy notes cut through the richness of the beans and bacon.

It’s a refreshing and elegant option that stands out.

Wild Rice Salad

A wild rice salad can also be a delightful accompaniment.

Packed with dried fruits, nuts, and a zesty dressing, it introduces a variety of flavors and textures.

This dish adds a touch of sophistication and balance to your meal.

Variations and Substitutions

Bacon Alternatives

If you’re looking to switch things up, try using pancetta or smoked turkey instead of bacon.

Both add a different flavor and can be a delightful change.

Vegetarian Option

For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon altogether.

Sauté the onions and garlic in olive oil or butter.

Add a touch of smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor.

Fresh vs. Canned Beans

While canned green beans are convenient, fresh green beans can elevate the dish.

Blanch the fresh beans before adding them to the pan.

Flavor Enhancements

Adding a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end can give a wonderful tanginess.

Consider sprinkling some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat!

Sweetness Adjustments

The original recipe calls for sugar, but you can use honey or brown sugar for a different twist.

Each gives a unique depth of flavor.

Liquid Adjustments

If the recipe calls for water, try using chicken or vegetable stock for a richer taste.

This simple switch can make a big difference.

How to Store Leftover Cracker Barrel Green Beans

Storing leftover Cracker Barrel green beans is easy and keeps them tasting delicious!

When storing, make sure you use an airtight container.

This helps preserve the flavor and keeps the beans fresh.

Place the beans in glass or plastic containers.

Glass is often preferred as it doesn’t retain odors.

Plastic containers work fine too if that’s what you have on hand.

Rinsing for Freshness

Rinse any excess seasoning or bacon bits off the beans if you plan to store them for more than a day.

This also prevents the beans from getting too soggy by removing excess moisture.

Refrigeration Tips

Once transferred to a container, store the beans in the refrigerator.

Make sure to consume them within 3-4 days to enjoy the best taste.

Portion Control

Dividing the beans into smaller portions before storing can make it easier when you’re ready to use them again.

This way, you only need to take out what you need without exposing the rest to air repeatedly.

With these tips, your leftover Cracker Barrel green beans can stay tasty and ready for your next meal!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Green Beans

One common mistake is cooking the green beans for too long.

You don’t want them to turn mushy because they will lose their vibrant green color and firm texture.

Keep an eye on the simmering time; 35-45 minutes should be enough.

Using Too Much Salt

It’s easy to overdo it with the salt in this recipe.

Remember that bacon already contains a good amount of salt.

Always taste and adjust the seasoning gradually to avoid an overly salty dish.

Not Rendering the Bacon Correctly

Make sure to cook the bacon until it’s lightly browned but not crispy.

Crispy bacon won’t infuse the green beans with the right amount of flavor.

Lightly browned bacon ensures a perfect balance of flavor in your beans.