Irresistible Instant Pot Green Beans and Potatoes with Crispy Bacon: A Southern Comfort Classic

Discover the ultimate Southern comfort food reinvented for modern kitchens! These Instant Pot Green Beans and Potatoes are a testament to how traditional flavors can be elevated with the magic of an electric pressure cooker. Imagine tender green beans and soft, buttery potatoes, slow-cooked to perfection in a fraction of the time, infused with savory bacon drippings, and crowned with crispy bacon bits. This isn’t just a side dish; it’s a flavorful experience that promises to become a staple in your meal rotation, whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a special holiday feast.

Why the Instant Pot is Your Secret Weapon for Southern Green Beans

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the incredible efficiency of the Instant Pot. Traditional Southern green beans often simmer for hours to achieve that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and deep flavor. While delicious, this slow-cooking process isn’t always feasible for busy schedules. The Instant Pot revolutionizes this classic by drastically reducing cooking time without compromising on taste or texture.

By using an electric pressure cooker, you lock in moisture and flavor, allowing the potatoes to become wonderfully soft and absorb all the rich, smoky essence from the bacon and savory chicken broth. The green beans, often prone to becoming mushy, emerge perfectly tender yet still vibrant. Plus, the Instant Pot’s sauté function means you can crisp up your bacon and build the foundational flavors all in one pot, minimizing cleanup and making this truly an easy side dish for any occasion.

The Heartwarming Appeal of Green Beans and Potatoes

The combination of green beans and potatoes is a beloved pairing, especially in Southern cuisine. It’s a versatile dish that comfortably graces both grand holiday tables and casual weeknight dinners. The addition of crispy bacon, sautéed to perfection and then mixed back into the dish, is the irresistible secret that takes this humble vegetable side to an extraordinary level. The savory bacon not only adds a textural crunch but also infuses every bite with a depth of flavor that complements the earthy potatoes and fresh green beans beautifully.

This delightful medley makes an exceptional accompaniment to virtually any main course. It’s a fantastic way to introduce more vegetables into your family’s diet, and our kids absolutely adore it! Whether you’re planning a Thanksgiving spread, a Christmas dinner, or simply looking for a hearty and nutritious side for your everyday meals, these pressure cooker green beans and potatoes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. It’s comfort food that feels both wholesome and indulgent.

Essential Ingredients for Your Instant Pot Green Beans and Potatoes

Crafting this flavorful dish requires a handful of simple, high-quality ingredients that come together to create a symphony of tastes. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare these delectable Instant Pot green beans with bacon and potatoes:

• Bacon: The star flavor enhancer.
• Red Onion: Adds a sweet and pungent aromatic base.
• Fresh Garlic: For an indispensable boost of savory aroma.
• Potatoes: The creamy, comforting foundation of the dish.
• Butter: For richness and to help brown the potatoes.
• Green Beans: The fresh, vibrant component.
• Chicken Broth: Provides liquid for pressure cooking and infuses flavor.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing if extra fat is needed.
• Salt and Pepper: To season perfectly to taste.
• Fresh Parsley: A bright, herbaceous garnish for freshness.

Choosing the Perfect Green Beans

While many varieties of green beans exist, not all are created equal for this particular recipe. For the best results, we highly recommend seeking out haricot vert green beans. This French term refers to the long, slender, and often more tender green beans found in the produce section of most grocery stores. They are harvested earlier in their growth cycle than their thicker American counterparts, resulting in a more delicate texture and concentrated flavor that truly shines in this dish.

Don’t be intimidated by the French name! It’s pronounced “heir-co-vair.” While saying “harry cot vert” might be amusing, mastering the proper pronunciation will surely impress your dinner guests! If haricot vert are unavailable, standard fresh green beans will work, but be sure they are crisp and vibrant. Avoid canned green beans for this recipe, as their texture is too soft, and their flavor can be overly salty, detracting from the fresh quality of the dish. Frozen green beans can be used as a last resort, but fresh is always preferred for optimal taste and texture.

Selecting the Ideal Potatoes

When it comes to potatoes for this recipe, you have a few good options, but our top recommendation is undoubtedly Yukon Gold potatoes. Their naturally smooth texture, buttery flavor, and waxy consistency make them perfect for boiling, steaming, and absorbing the rich bacon goodness without turning to mush. A significant bonus is their thin, delicate skin, which means no peeling is required – a huge time-saver!

However, if Yukon Gold potatoes aren’t on hand, here’s a quick guide to other suitable varieties, ranked by preference:

1. Yukon Gold Potatoes: Golden flesh, waxy, buttery, ideal for boiling, steaming, and soaking up flavors. No need to peel.
2. Red Potatoes: Thin red skin, waxy texture, excellent for boiling, steaming, or simmering in soups without falling apart.
3. New Potatoes: Tender, waxy, with thin yellow or red skin. Versatile for boiling, baking, frying, or roasting.
4. Fingerling Potatoes: Distinctive finger shape, available in various colors. Best roasted whole or halved to showcase their unique shape and texture.
5. Russet Potatoes (aka Idaho potatoes): Starchy and fluffy, these are generally best for baking, mashing, or frying. While they can work in a pinch, they might break down more easily in this recipe compared to waxy varieties. If using russets, ensure you cut them into larger, uniform pieces to prevent overcooking.

Regardless of the potato type, ensure they are thoroughly washed and cut into uniform, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking in the Instant Pot.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Instant Pot Green Beans and Potatoes

Get ready for a flavor explosion in just minutes! Making these Southern-style green beans and potatoes in your Instant Pot is surprisingly quick and simple. Follow these easy steps to achieve tender vegetables infused with irresistible bacon flavor:

1. Crisp the Bacon: Start by setting your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode for 20 minutes. Once the pot is hot, add your chopped bacon and cook until it’s perfectly crispy, stirring occasionally to ensure even browning. This step is crucial for rendering the fat and building the foundational flavor of the dish. Remove the crispy bacon to a plate lined with paper towels, reserving the flavorful bacon grease in the pot. This golden fat will infuse the rest of your ingredients with an incredible smoky depth.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped red onion and minced fresh garlic to the remaining bacon grease in the Instant Pot. Sauté until the onions are tender and translucent, and the garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Brown the Potatoes: Next, add the tablespoon of butter to the pot, allowing it to melt. Place the halved potatoes into the pot, cut side down. Cook them until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. If the pot seems too dry, drizzle in a little olive oil to help with the browning process. This searing step adds another layer of flavor and helps the potatoes hold their shape during pressure cooking.
4. Add Green Beans and Broth: Toss in the fresh green beans (haricot verts, if using) and stir everything gently to combine all the ingredients with the delicious flavors in the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring it reaches the bottom of the pot to prevent any “Burn” notices during pressure cooking.
5. Pressure Cook to Perfection: Secure the Instant Pot lid and make sure the vent is sealed. Set the Instant Pot to “Manual” (or “Pressure Cook”) mode on high pressure for just 6 minutes. The pressure cooker will take some time to come to pressure before the cooking cycle begins.
6. Natural Release and Finish: Once the 6-minute cooking cycle is complete, allow for a natural pressure release (NPR) for at least 5-10 minutes. This helps the vegetables finish cooking gently and prevents them from bursting open. After the natural release, carefully open the lid away from your face. Season the green beans and potatoes generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
7. Serve with Bacon and Parsley: Finally, stir in the reserved crispy bacon bits that you cooked at the very beginning. Sprinkle a generous amount of chopped fresh parsley over the top just before serving for a burst of color and fresh herbaceousness. Bon appétit on these incredible potatoes and haricot verts!

For more Instant Pot culinary adventures, make sure to check out our comprehensive Instant Pot Cheat Sheet, a simplified guide to making all your kitchen basics in the Instant Pot!

What to Serve with Your Flavorful Instant Pot Green Beans and Potatoes

This versatile side dish pairs beautifully with a wide array of main courses, enhancing any meal with its rich Southern flavors. Here are some of our favorite pairings:

• Bottom of the Jar Chicken: A simple, savory chicken dish that complements the hearty vegetables.
• Italian Bolognese: The robust flavors of a classic Bolognese sauce find a perfect counterpoint in these tender vegetables.
• Cornflake Ranch Chicken: The crispy coating and tangy flavor of this chicken offer a delightful contrast.
• Asian Sticky Slow Cooker Ribs: The sweet and savory notes of sticky ribs are wonderfully balanced by the comforting side.
• Smoked Prime Rib: For a more elegant meal, this classic pairing is always a winner.
• Roasted Pork Loin: The lean pork beautifully absorbs the rich flavors of the beans and potatoes.
• Grilled Salmon: A lighter, healthier option that still offers a satisfying meal.
• Meatloaf: A quintessential comfort food meal that is perfectly completed by this side.

Tips for Making the Best Southern-Style Instant Pot Green Beans and Potatoes

• Invest in a Good Instant Pot: If you’re new to pressure cooking, we highly recommend this model. It’s the one we use in our kitchen and consistently delivers fantastic results. A reliable Instant Pot makes all the difference!
• Don’t Skimp on Green Beans: Some readers have asked about reducing the amount of green beans, but we strongly advise against it. This recipe is carefully balanced to achieve the perfect green bean-to-bacon-and-potato ratio, ensuring amazing flavor in every bite.
• Uniform Potato Cuts: Ensure your potatoes are cut into similar-sized pieces (halved, or quartered if larger) for even cooking. This prevents some pieces from becoming overcooked while others remain firm.
• Don’t Rush the Natural Release: While it can be tempting to quick-release the pressure, allowing a natural release (or at least a partial natural release) helps the vegetables finish cooking gently and absorb more flavor, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
• Season Liberally: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper after cooking. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. The bacon provides salt, but the vegetables will benefit from additional seasoning.
• Fresh Parsley for Brightness: The fresh parsley isn’t just a garnish; it adds a burst of freshness that brightens the entire dish and cuts through the richness of the bacon and potatoes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Green Beans and Potatoes

Can You Cook Just Green Beans in the Instant Pot?

Absolutely! Green beans can be cooked beautifully on their own in the Instant Pot in as little as 2 minutes. Simply place your steamer rack in the Instant Pot, add your trimmed green beans to the pot, close the lid, and cook on low pressure for 1-2 minutes. After a quick release of pressure, you’ll have perfectly steamed green beans ready to enjoy!

Can I Double This Instant Pot Green Beans and Potatoes Recipe?

Yes, if your Instant Pot is large enough to comfortably hold double the amount of ingredients without exceeding the “max fill” line, you can certainly double the recipe. The beauty of pressure cooking is that you generally won’t need to alter the cook time for larger quantities, as the pressure inside the pot remains constant regardless of the volume of food (up to the maximum capacity). Just ensure all ingredients are well-distributed for even cooking.

What Type of Bacon Should I Use?

You are welcome to use any type of bacon you prefer! We typically use traditional pork bacon for its classic smoky flavor and crispy texture, which works wonderfully in this Southern-inspired dish. However, if you’re looking for an alternative, turkey bacon can be used, though it may render less fat and offer a slightly different flavor profile. If you experiment with different types of bacon, please share your experience in the comments below – we’d love to hear how it turns out!

Can I Use Frozen or Canned Green Beans?

While fresh haricot vert or standard green beans are highly recommended for their superior texture and flavor, you can use frozen green beans in a pinch. If using frozen, you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly, potentially reducing it by a minute, as they cook faster. Canned green beans are not recommended for this recipe, as their texture is too soft and they tend to be overly salty, which would compromise the overall quality of the dish.

Do I Have to Peel the Potatoes?

If you’re using Yukon Gold potatoes, there’s no need to peel them! Their skin is delicate and adds to the rustic charm and nutritional value of the dish. For other waxy potato varieties like red or new potatoes, the skin is also thin enough to leave on. If you opt for starchy potatoes like Russets, you might consider peeling them if you prefer a smoother texture, as their skin can be tougher. However, it’s entirely up to your personal preference!

Instant Pot Green Beans and Potatoes Recipe

Recipe Details

Author: Carrian Cheney
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

• 8 Slices Bacon, chopped
• 1/2 Red Onion, chopped
• 1 Clove Garlic, minced
• 1 Tablespoon Butter
• 6-8 Small Yukon Gold Potatoes, halved
• Olive Oil (as needed)
• 2 Pounds Fresh Haricot Verts, trimmed (or green beans)
• 3/4 Cup Chicken Broth
• Salt and Pepper, to taste
• Fresh Parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Press Sauté on your Instant Pot and set it for 20 minutes. Once hot, add the chopped bacon and cook until crisp, stirring occasionally. Remove the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered grease in the pot.
2. Add the chopped red onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the butter to the pot and allow it to melt.
4. Place the halved potatoes cut side down in the pot and cook until golden brown, adding a drizzle of olive oil if needed.
5. Add the green beans to the pot and stir to combine all ingredients.
6. Pour in the chicken broth. Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to Manual (or Pressure Cook) on high pressure for 6 minutes.
7. Allow for a natural pressure release for at least 5-10 minutes. Then, carefully open the lid. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Stir in the crispy bacon bits and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley right before serving.

Recipe Notes

• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Gently reheat in the microwave or a skillet.

Nutrition Information (Approximate)

• Serving: 1g
• Calories: 192kcal
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 24mg
• Sodium: 328mg
• Potassium: 414mg
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 5g
• Vitamin A: 1112IU
• Vitamin C: 21mg
• Calcium: 60mg
• Iron: 2mg

More Delicious Instant Pot Recipes to Explore

If you love the ease and speed of your Instant Pot, you’ll definitely want to try these other fantastic recipes:

• Cuban Pasta Salad
• Instant Pot Southern Macaroni and Cheese
• Instant Pot Refried Beans
• 2-Ingredient Instant Pot Applesauce
• Award-Winning Instant Pot Chili
• Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff
• Instant Pot Taco Soup
• Explore ALL Our Instant Pot Recipes!

More Easy Southern Recipes for Your Table

Craving more comforting Southern classics? Dive into these delightful dishes:

• Easy Macaroni and Cheese (Southern-Style)
• Easy Baked Beans Recipe
• Southern Sausage Breakfast Cake
• Cheesy Southern Grits
• Southern Grape Salad with Pecans
• Instant Pot Short Ribs with Carolina BBQ Sauce
• Southern English Pea Salad
• Southern Tomato Basil Pie