Smothered Green Beans with Potatoes is a flavorful and comforting side dish that combines crisp green beans and tender potatoes in a creamy, savory sauce. This dish starts with sautéing onions and garlic until they’re aromatic and golden, creating a flavorful base. Diced potatoes are then added and cooked until they begin to soften.
A rich sauce is made from a roux of butter and flour, which is then mixed with milk and broth to create a smooth, creamy consistency. Seasoned with thyme and rosemary, the sauce adds depth and a fragrant note to the dish. The sauce is poured over the potatoes and onions, along with fresh green beans, and everything is simmered together until the vegetables are tender and coated with the creamy sauce.
Smothered Green Beans with Potatoes is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses or can be enjoyed on its own. It’s a perfect choice for both everyday meals and special occasions, offering a delicious blend of textures and flavors in every bite.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added flavor)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Wash and trim the green beans, and peel and dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
- Cook the Potatoes:
- Add the diced potatoes to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, and then add the chicken or vegetable broth. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Pour the thickened sauce over the potatoes and onions in the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Add the green beans, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well.
- Simmer:
- Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes and green beans are tender. Stir occasionally.
- Finish and Serve:
- If desired, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top just before serving. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Tips:
- For Extra Flavor: Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the sauce mixture.
- For Crispier Green Beans: Blanch the green beans in boiling water for 2 minutes before adding them to the skillet. This will help them stay vibrant and slightly crisp.
- Make It a Meal: Add cooked chicken, sausage, or bacon to make it a hearty, one-pan meal.
- Storage: This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Enjoy your Smothered Green Beans with Potatoes!
