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Bill Miller Green Bean Recipe

Bill Miller Green Bean Recipe

Tender green beans simmered with bacon, onion, garlic, tomatoes, and broth for a savory homemade side inspired by Bill Miller-style green beans.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 7 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cans 14.5–16 oz each green beans, drained
  • 8 oz bacon chopped
  • ¼ yellow onion finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 can 14.5 oz petite diced tomatoes, with juice
  • 1 can 14.5 oz beef broth
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tsp sugar optional

Equipment

  • Large skillet or heavy-bottomed pot
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring spoons
  • Can opener
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Slotted spoon (optional)

Method
 

  1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped bacon and cook until lightly browned and some fat has rendered.
  2. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes, until softened.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
  4. Add diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir and simmer for about 5 minutes.
  5. Add the drained green beans and gently stir them into the tomato and bacon mixture.
  6. Pour in the beef broth. Add black pepper and a small amount of salt.
  7. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover.
  8. Cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the beans are tender and flavorful.
  9. Taste and adjust the salt or pepper if needed. Let the beans rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Canned green beans are convenient and give the soft texture that works well for this style of recipe.
  • Taste before adding extra salt because bacon and broth can already be salty.
  • Keep the heat at a gentle simmer rather than a hard boil.
  • For more smoky flavor, add a small amount of smoked paprika.
  • For fresh green beans, allow additional cooking time until they reach your preferred tenderness.