Cracker Barrel String Beans Recipe

If you’ve ever wished to recreate the familiar taste of Cracker Barrel’s green beans at home, I’ve got you covered!

They are so easy to prepare and serve as a perfect side for any meal.

Start by cooking bacon until it’s slightly browned—this step is crucial for adding that savory flavor we all love.

Don’t forget the classic trio of salt, sugar, and pepper to allow the beans to develop their full flavor.

How to Make Cracker Barrel String Beans

Ingredients

• 1/2 lb Bacon
• 2 cans Green Beans (14.5 oz. each)
• 1/4 cup Onion (diced)
• 2 tsp Sugar
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Cook the bacon in a saucepan over medium heat until it turns golden brown, but make sure not to let it get crispy.

Step 2:

Add the diced onion to the bacon and sauté until the onion is translucent and tender.

Step 3:

Pour in the green beans, including their liquid, ensuring they’re well covered.

Step 4:

Sprinkle in the sugar, salt, and black pepper, and gently stir the mixture together.

Step 5:

Cover the saucepan with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choose Quality Bacon:

Choosing quality bacon adds tremendous richness and smoky flavor, so don’t skimp on this crucial ingredient! Opt for thick-cut bacon if you want hearty bites throughout your dish.

Adjusting Sweetness:

If you find the beans need a little more sweetness, feel free to add a pinch more sugar to enhance their flavor.

Cooking to Your Liking:

For firmer beans, you can reduce the simmering time slightly, which maintains a bit of crunch in the texture.

Expanding the Recipe:

You can double the ingredients to serve more people, making this recipe a great choice for larger gatherings or family dinners.

What to Serve with Cracker Barrel String Bean Recipe

Mashed Potatoes

You can’t go wrong with mashed potatoes as a side dish for this delicious Cracker Barrel string bean recipe.

Their creamy texture pairs wonderfully with the savory taste of the green beans.

Don’t skimp on the butter and milk to get that rich, homestyle flavor.

Cornbread

Cornbread is another classic option that goes hand-in-hand with string beans.

It’s sweet and buttery, offering a perfect contrast to the savory bacon-infused beans.

Serve it warm from the oven for the best experience.

Roasted Carrots

If you’re looking for something a bit different, why not try roasted carrots?

The natural sweetness of the carrots, enhanced by a touch of honey, adds a fresh contrast to your meal.

Roasting them with herbs like thyme or rosemary could bring an extra layer of flavor.

Couscous

Consider serving couscous to bring a unique twist to your meal.

This fluffy grain soaks up the flavors and juices from the beans and bacon very well.

You might even try adding some chopped fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon to brighten it up.

Grilled Pineapple

Grilled pineapple can offer a juicy and sweet component.

The caramelized edges provide a lovely counterpart to the savory dish.

If you want to be adventurous, sprinkle a pinch of chili powder on top before grilling.

Variations and Substitutions

Experiment with Bacon Alternatives

You might want to try turkey bacon if you’re aiming for a lighter option.

It offers a similar flavor with less fat!

If you’re skipping meat, smoked paprika gives a nice smoky flavor too.

Spice it Up

If you’re looking to add some heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Another great addition could be a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.

Both will give your green beans a spicy kick!

Broth Substitution Tips

Swapping the green bean liquid for chicken broth can enhance the flavor significantly.

It’s a simple change that gives a richer taste to your dish.

If you’re monitoring sodium intake, opt for low-sodium chicken broth for better control over the saltiness.

Onion Alternatives

If you don’t have yellow onions, shallots are a wonderful substitute.

They add a slightly sweeter and more delicate flavor.

For those who love a stronger onion flavor, red onions can be a fun experiment!

How to Store Leftover Cracker Barrel String Beans

Refrigeration Tips

You should always store leftover Cracker Barrel string beans in an airtight container to maintain freshness and flavor.

Placing them in the refrigerator will keep them good for about 3 to 5 days.

Storing them in a tightly sealed container helps prevent unwanted odors from mingling with the beans.

Freezing Guidelines

Freezing is an excellent option if you anticipate the leftovers won’t be eaten in a few days.

You’ll want to transfer the string beans to a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag.

Push out as much air as possible from the container or bag before sealing to avoid freezer burn.

Labeling Advice

Don’t forget to label your containers with the date so you remember when they were stored.

This simple step helps you keep track of how long the string beans have been in the fridge or freezer.

Being aware of storage times ensures the best quality and safety when you’re ready to enjoy them again!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Bacon

You want your bacon to be slightly browned but not crispy, or else it will overcook in the beans.

Keep an eye on the pan, as bacon can quickly go from perfectly browned to overly crisp.

Skipping the Onion

Onion adds depth to the flavor of the green beans, and skipping it can lead to a bland dish.

Chop your onion finely and let it mingle with the green beans and bacon for a rich taste.

Using Fresh Green Beans Incorrectly

If you’re choosing fresh green beans over canned ones, make sure to blanch them first.

This step helps achieve a tender texture without losing the vibrant green color.