Place the trimmed green beans into the bottom of your slow cooker. Add in the minced garlic, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. These seasonings will give the green beans a wonderful flavor as they slow cook.
Add the Liquid:
Pour the low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth) into the slow cooker. The broth helps to steam the green beans, making them tender and infusing them with extra flavor.
Add the Butter:
Place the butter on top of the green beans. It will melt as the beans cook, creating a rich and smooth flavor.
Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4-5 hours, or high for 2-3 hours. The green beans should be tender but still have a little bite to them.
Optional Add-ins:
If you’re adding sliced almonds or bacon bits, sprinkle them over the beans during the last 30 minutes of cooking to keep their texture intact.
Serve:
Once the green beans are tender and fully cooked, squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the top for a burst of brightness before serving. Enjoy your delicious slow-cooked green beans!
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving: These slow-cooked green beans are perfect as a side dish for roasted meats, grilled chicken, or vegetarian meals. They pair well with mashed potatoes, rice, or even pasta.
Storing Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep them moist.
Make Ahead: You can prepare these green beans ahead of time by prepping the ingredients the night before and storing them in the slow cooker insert in the fridge. Just pop it into the slow cooker in the morning for an easy, no-fuss side dish later.
Variants:
Bacon-Wrapped Green Beans:
For a smoky flavor, wrap individual green beans with bacon and place them in the slow cooker. Add the broth and seasonings as directed. The bacon adds an extra richness and texture that complements the beans perfectly.
Spicy Green Beans:
For a spicy twist, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the slow cooker along with the other seasonings. This will give the beans a subtle heat without overwhelming the flavor.
Cheesy Green Beans:
About 30 minutes before the beans are done cooking, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan on top. Cover and cook until the cheese melts, creating a creamy, cheesy topping for the beans.
Garlic and Herb Green Beans:
If you love fresh herbs, try adding 1-2 teaspoons of dried thyme, rosemary, or parsley. For even more flavor, use fresh garlic instead of minced garlic.
FAQ:
Q1: Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans in this recipe. While fresh green beans tend to retain their texture better when slow-cooked, frozen beans will still work well. You may need to reduce the cooking time slightly, as frozen beans cook faster than fresh ones.
Q2: Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe. Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients. You may need to increase the cooking time slightly, especially if you’re cooking on the low setting.
Q3: Can I make these green beans ahead of time?
Absolutely! These green beans can be made ahead of time. You can either prepare them and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook or fully cook them and then reheat them before serving.
Q4: Can I make these green beans on the stovetop instead of the slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook these green beans on the stovetop. Simply sauté the garlic in butter for a couple of minutes, then add the green beans and broth. Simmer over low heat for about 20-30 minutes until the beans are tender.
Q5: Can I use other seasonings to customize the flavor?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with other seasonings like cumin, smoked paprika, or even a splash of soy sauce for an Asian-inspired flavor. The slow cooker method is very forgiving and adaptable to various flavor profiles.
Conclusion:
With just a few ingredients and a slow cooker, you can turn simple green beans into a flavorful, tender side dish that will impress everyone at the table. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something special for a holiday gathering, this recipe is an easy, hands-off way to make green beans a standout dish. Try out different variations and seasonings to make this dish your own, and enjoy the simplicity and taste it brings to your meals!
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