Copycat Cracker Barrel Green Beans Recipe delivers tender, smoky canned green beans simmered low and slow with bacon and onion for that authentic Southern restaurant flavor. This easy side dish comes together in under an hour with just five ingredients and pairs perfectly with fried chicken or holiday ham.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Tender green beans absorb smoky bacon flavor without turning mushy thanks to a gentle simmer in their own liquid. A touch of sugar balances the saltiness for craveable taste. Make it ahead for busy weeknights or potlucks, and it reheats beautifully.
Ingredients
Gather these simple pantry staples for spot-on results.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Thick-cut bacon | 4 slices, chopped | Provides fat base, lightly brown only |
| Canned cut green beans | 3 cans (14.5 oz each), undrained | Del Monte or store brand for tenderness |
| Sweet onion | 1/2 cup diced | Vidalia adds natural sweetness |
| Granulated sugar | 1 tsp | Balances bacon saltiness |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Fresh ground for best flavor |
How to Make Copycat Cracker Barrel Green Beans
Follow these foolproof steps for restaurant-quality results every time.
- Cook chopped bacon in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat until lightly browned and fat renders, about 5 minutes. Do not let it get crispy.
- Add undrained green beans, diced onion, and sugar to the skillet. Stir to combine, then bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 35 to 45 minutes. Avoid stirring to keep beans intact. Liquid will reduce and thicken slightly.
- Taste and season with salt and pepper. Serve hot with a slotted spoon.
Pro Tips
| Common Mistake | Fix |
|---|---|
| Crispy bacon | Brown lightly only for fat infusion |
| Mushy beans | Low simmer, no stirring |
| Bland flavor | Use undrained cans plus sugar |
Storage and Make-Ahead
Store leftovers in an airtight container with cooking liquid in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to revive tenderness. Freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
Variations
Customize to your needs while keeping the classic flavor.
- Fresh green beans: Use 2 pounds trimmed, simmer 20 minutes longer.
- Crockpot: Combine all in slow cooker on low 3 to 4 hours.
- Vegan: Swap bacon for smoked turkey or 1 tsp liquid smoke plus olive oil.
- Spicy: Add 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes with onions.
- Low-sugar: Use stevia or omit for savory profile.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile side shines with Southern mains.
| Main Dish | Why It Pairs Well |
|---|---|
| Fried chicken | Classic comfort combo |
| Baked ham | Holiday favorite |
| Mashed potatoes | Hearty plate balance |
| Mac and cheese | Cracker Barrel duo |
| Pinto beans | Meatless Monday option |
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, 1/2 Cup)
Approximate values based on 8 servings.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 50 kcal |
| Total Fat | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 5 g |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh green beans?
Yes, trim 2 pounds and simmer 20 minutes extra for tenderness.
Is the sugar necessary?
It balances the bacon’s saltiness; swap stevia if preferred.
Crockpot instructions?
Dump all ingredients in, low 3 to 4 hours. Stir once halfway.
How to scale for a crowd?
Double ingredients; use large pot or two skillets. Simmer time stays same.
Gluten-free?
Naturally gluten-free; check bacon labels.
Make ahead for holidays?
Yes, fridge 2 days or freeze 2 months. Reheat low.
Why undrained cans?
Liquid carries bacon flavor into beans during simmer.
Air fryer bacon first?
Possible, but stovetop fat renders best for sauce base.
Low sodium version?
Rinse one can lightly; reduce added salt.
Vegetarian twist?
Use plant-based bacon bits and vegetable broth splash.
Drop more questions in the comments!
More Copycat Favorites
Try our fried chicken tenders, pinto beans, or mac and cheese next.
Pin this recipe for your next gathering, tweak the spice, and share your plated photos below.
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Copycat Cracker Barrel Green Beans – Smoky Bacon Recipe
- Total Time: PT50M
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Copycat Cracker Barrel Green Beans deliver tender, smoky canned green beans simmered low and slow with bacon and onion for authentic Southern restaurant flavor. This easy 5-ingredient side dish takes 50 minutes total and serves 8 as a perfect pairing for fried chicken, ham, or holiday meals. Foolproof steps ensure tender beans without mushiness.
Ingredients
4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
3 cans (14.5 oz each) cut green beans, undrained
1/2 cup sweet onion, diced
1 tsp granulated sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Chop bacon into 1/2-inch pieces. In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook bacon 5-7 minutes until fat renders and edges brown but not crisp. No need to drain.
Add undrained green beans (with liquid), diced onion, sugar, pepper, and salt if using. Stir once to combine.
Bring to a boil over medium-high heat (3-5 minutes), then reduce to low simmer. Cover and cook undisturbed 35-45 minutes until onions soften and flavors meld. Beans stay tender without stirring.
Remove lid, taste, and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with slotted spoon, letting excess liquid drain. Pairs perfectly with cornbread or mashed potatoes.
Notes
Storage: Fridge 5 days in liquid; reheat stovetop low.
Make-ahead: Prepare fully, fridge 2 days.
Variations: Crockpot low 3-4 hours; vegan with liquid smoke.
Tips: Undrained liquid infuses flavor; low simmer prevents mush.
- Prep Time: PT10M
- Cook Time: PT40M
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
