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Green Beans with Bacon and Brown Sugar

Green beans with bacon and brown sugar cook in a skillet until crisp-tender, then finish with a light, savory-sweet glaze. Crisp bacon adds smoky flavor to this easy side dish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 24 minutes
Total Time 34 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 125
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 6 bacon slices, chopped
  • 1 yellow onion small, diced
  • 1.5 lb fresh green beans trimmed
  • 0.5 cup unsalted chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp light brown sugar packed
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • 0.25 tsp kosher salt

Equipment

  • 1 12-inch skillet

Method
 

  1. Cook the bacon in a 12-inch skillet over medium heat for 7–9 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crisp.
  2. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate.
  3. Pour off all but 1 tablespoon of bacon fat.
  4. Add the onion to the skillet and cook over medium heat for 3–4 minutes, stirring, until softened.
  5. Add the green beans, chicken broth, brown sugar, and black pepper; cover and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring once, until the beans are crisp-tender.
  6. Uncover and cook for 2–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broth has reduced to a light glaze.
  7. Stir in the bacon and salt.
  8. Serve.

Notes

For the best crisp-tender texture, avoid overcooking the beans. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days; freezing is not recommended because the beans soften. For a gluten-free version, use chicken broth labeled gluten-free.