There’s something magical about the slow simmer of green beans in a crockpot—the way they soak up buttery goodness, the smoky hint of bacon, the tender texture that practically melts in your mouth. It’s comfort food at its finest, but without the hassle of standing over the stove.
For years, I thought green beans were just a quick side dish—steam, season, done. But then, I discovered the low and slow method. That’s when everything changed. The flavors deepen, the beans become irresistibly tender, and suddenly, they steal the spotlight on the dinner table.
This recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights and holiday feasts alike. Whether you’re pairing it with Crockpot Ham for a hearty meal or creamy Mashed Potatoes for the ultimate comfort combo, these green beans fit right in. Plus, it’s all hands-off—just toss everything in, set it, and let the crockpot do its thing.
The secret? A stick of butter and real bacon bits that infuse every bite with rich, smoky goodness. One taste, and you’ll never go back to bland, boiled green beans again. Try it once. You’ll be hooked.
Why You Will Be Hooked?
- Effortless & Foolproof – Just dump, stir, and forget about it until it’s time to eat. Perfect for busy days!
- Incredible Flavor – The slow cooking process makes these beans buttery, savory, and deeply flavorful.
- Crowd-Pleasing Side – Whether it’s a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, everyone goes for seconds.
- Pairs with Everything – Works beautifully alongside roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or even as part of a Southern-style spread.
- Comfort in a Bowl – Warm, cozy, and satisfying—this dish is the definition of comfort food.
Crockpot Green Beans Recipe
Equipment
- Crockpot (Slow Cooker)
- Measuring cups
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 1 16 ounce package frozen green beans
- ½ cup frozen bell pepper and onion mix
- ¼ cup real bacon bits
- garlic salt to taste
- ground black pepper to taste
- 1 stick butter cut into chunks
Instructions
- Add frozen green beans and frozen bell pepper & onion mix to the crockpot.
- Sprinkle in garlic salt, black pepper, and bacon bits.
- Cut the butter into chunks and place evenly over the beans.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours.
- Stir occasionally to distribute flavors.
- Once tender and flavorful, give it a final stir.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 179kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 5g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fat | 16g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Sodium | 311mg |
Creative Variations For This Recipe!
- Honey Garlic Glaze – Add a drizzle of honey and a splash of soy sauce for a sweet-savory twist that enhances the umami flavors. Perfect for serving with roasted meats!
- Smoky BBQ Kick – Mix in a spoonful of your favorite BBQ sauce and a dash of smoked paprika. This gives the beans a rich, deep smokiness that pairs beautifully with grilled dishes.
- Cheesy Comfort Version – Just before serving, sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar or parmesan over the top. Let it melt into the beans for a rich, creamy finish.
- Cajun-Style Heat – Toss in Cajun seasoning and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bold, slightly spicy Southern touch. It’s a game-changer if you love a little heat!
- Caramelized Onion Upgrade – Instead of the frozen mix, slow-cook thinly sliced fresh onions in butter until golden, then add them to the beans for a deeper, naturally sweet flavor.
- Nutty Crunch Factor – Sprinkle toasted pecans or slivered almonds over the beans before serving for a satisfying crunch and a subtle nutty contrast.
- Savory Herb Boost – Stir in fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage during the last 30 minutes of cooking. It adds a fragrant, earthy depth that takes the dish to the next level.
John Lee’s love for cooking is deeply rooted in family tradition. Growing up, the men in his family took charge of the kitchen, turning every meal into a special occasion. From weekend barbecues to holiday feasts, food was more than sustenance—it was a way to connect.
Inspired by this upbringing, John developed a passion for creating dishes that bring people together. After meeting Joe Miller through mutual friends, he joined Food Landscape Insight to share his love for simple yet extraordinary cooking, crafting meals that tell a story and create lasting memories.
