Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that’s bound to become a staple at your dinner table: Pioneer Woman’s Crack Green Beans. This dish transforms simple green beans into an irresistibly savory and slightly sweet side, coated in a rich, bacon-infused glaze. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, these crack green beans are sure to please everyone. Let’s get started!

What are Pioneer Woman Crack Green Beans?

Pioneer Woman’s Crack Green Beans are a mouthwatering side dish made with green beans, crispy bacon, and a flavorful sauce that’s a mix of savory, sweet, and tangy elements. The dish gets its name because it’s so deliciously addictive that you’ll keep coming back for more. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a fantastic way to elevate a simple vegetable into something truly special.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

Easy to make: This recipe requires just a few ingredients and is simple to prepare.
Crowd-pleaser: The combination of flavors is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Great for any occasion: Perfect as a side dish for weeknight dinners or holiday feasts.
Bacon lovers rejoice: The crispy bacon adds a rich, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the green beans.
Pioneer Woman’s touch: A recipe that embodies Ree Drummond’s comforting, home-cooked style.

Ingredients Needed to Make Pioneer Woman Crack Green Beans

4 cans (14.5 ounces each) green beans, drained
8 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
2/3 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

Large baking dish: For assembling and baking the green beans.
Skillet: For cooking the bacon.
Mixing bowl: For combining the sauce ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: To measure out the ingredients accurately.
Tongs or spatula: For stirring the green beans in the sauce.

Instructions to Make Pioneer Woman Crack Green Beans

Follow these steps to make Pioneer Woman Crack Green Beans:

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the bacon: In a skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet, drain on paper towels, and crumble into small pieces.
Prepare the green beans: Drain the canned green beans and place them in a large baking dish.
Make the sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until the brown sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
Assemble the dish: Pour the sauce over the green beans in the baking dish. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon evenly over the top.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the green beans are heated through.
Serve: Let the crack green beans cool slightly before serving. Enjoy as a savory side dish with your favorite main course.

What Goes Well With Pioneer Woman Crack Green Beans

Roast chicken: The savory flavors of the green beans pair perfectly with roast chicken.
Grilled steak: Serve alongside a juicy steak for a hearty meal.
Mashed potatoes: A classic side that complements the rich, sweet flavors of the green beans.
Cornbread: A slice of cornbread is a great addition to this Southern-inspired dish.
Holiday ham: These green beans are an excellent side dish for holiday dinners, especially with ham.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Pioneer Woman Crack Green Beans

Use fresh green beans: For a fresher taste, substitute the canned green beans with fresh or frozen green beans. If using fresh, blanch them first before baking.
Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of brown sugar in the sauce.
Crisp up the bacon: For extra crispy bacon, cook it in the oven or air fryer before crumbling it over the green beans.
Serve immediately: These green beans are best served warm, right out of the oven.

Variations of Pioneer Woman Crack Green Beans

Spicy Crack Green Beans: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Cheesy Green Beans: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese over the green beans before baking for a cheesy twist.
Mushroom and Onion Green Beans: Add sautéed mushrooms and onions to the green beans before baking for extra flavor and texture.
Maple Bacon Green Beans: Substitute the brown sugar with maple syrup for a richer, deeper sweetness.

Storing Pioneer Woman Crack Green Beans: Best Practices

Use an airtight container: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Refrigerate promptly: Keep the green beans chilled to maintain their freshness.
Use within 3-4 days: For the best taste and quality, consume within a few days.
Freeze for longer storage: You can freeze the green beans for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Pioneer Woman Crack Green Beans: Best Practices

Oven reheating: Reheat the green beans in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
Microwave reheating: Microwave individual servings on a microwave-safe plate for 1-2 minutes, or until heated to your liking.
Skillet reheating: Reheat the green beans in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

How Can I Make Pioneer Woman Crack Green Beans Healthier?

To make Pioneer Woman’s Crack Green Beans healthier, consider these simple adjustments:

Use less sugar: Reduce the amount of brown sugar or substitute it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Lower the sodium: Use a low-sodium soy sauce and reduce the amount of added salt.
Use turkey bacon: Substitute regular bacon with turkey bacon for a leaner option.
Add more vegetables: Mix in other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for added nutrients.
Use fresh green beans: Substitute canned green beans with fresh or frozen green beans for a lower-sodium, fresher option.

Nutrition Value (per serving):

Calories: 250 kcal
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 5g
Sodium: 900mg
Sugar: 15g

FAQs

Can I make Pioneer Woman’s Crack Green Beans ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Crack Green Beans ahead of time. Assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake it in the oven as directed. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or entertaining.

Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned ones?

Yes, you can use fresh green beans. If using fresh, blanch them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes before assembling the dish. This will ensure they are tender and cook evenly with the sauce in the oven.

What can I substitute for bacon in this recipe?

If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can substitute the bacon with sautéed mushrooms, onions, or even a plant-based bacon alternative. The dish will still be flavorful and satisfying without the meat.

How do I prevent Crack Green Beans from being too sweet?

To prevent the dish from being too sweet, reduce the amount of brown sugar in the sauce or balance the sweetness with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to add acidity.

Final Words

Pioneer Woman’s Crack Green Beans are a deliciously addictive side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their rich, savory flavors and crispy bacon topping, these green beans are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving them with a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, this simple recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the irresistible taste of this Southern classic!

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