Name: Delicious Southern Style Butter Beans Recipe to Savor
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 lb dried lima beans; 4 slices thick bacon, chopped; 1 yellow onion, diced; 1/2 cup carrots, shredded; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 2 bay leaves; 1/2 cup butter (1 stick); 4 cups chicken broth; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Southern Style Butter Beans are a quintessential dish in Southern cuisine that embodies comfort and warmth. This delightful recipe features tender butter beans cooked with crispy bacon and vibrant vegetables, creating a comforting Southern dish that is sure to please. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a nourishing meal, this creamy butter beans dish is a perfect choice!

Why You’ll Love This Southern Style Butter Beans

This recipe is not only delicious, but it also offers numerous benefits. First, it features Southern butter beans, which are packed with protein and fiber, making them a healthy choice. Second, the flavor combination of bacon and vegetables elevates the taste profile, turning simple ingredients into a mouthwatering dish. Third, it’s an easy southern butter beans recipe that can be prepared in less than two hours, ideal for busy weeknights. Additionally, this dish is gluten-free, catering to various dietary preferences. Lastly, it pairs beautifully as a Southern butter beans side dish with cornbread, creating a complete meal that embodies Southern comfort food.

Ingredients for Southern Style Butter Beans

Gather these items:

1 lb dried lima beans
4 slices thick bacon, chopped
1 yellow onion, diced
1/2 cup carrots, shredded
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
2 bay leaves
1/2 cup butter (1 stick)
4 cups chicken broth
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

How to Make Southern Style Butter Beans Step-by-Step

Step 1: Optional: Soak beans in cold water overnight and drain before cooking. If soaking overnight, skip step 2 and 3.
Step 2: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cover dried beans with water by 1 inch. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat. Cover and let sit for 1 hour.
Step 3: Drain and rinse beans with cold water. Set aside.
Step 4: In the same pot, cook chopped bacon over medium-high heat until crisp. Do not drain the rendered fat.
Step 5: Add diced onion, shredded carrots, minced garlic, thyme, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until vegetables are soft.
Step 6: Return beans to the pot. Add bay leaves, butter, and chicken broth. Add additional water as needed so that beans are fully submerged.
Step 7: Reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Cover partially and cook 60 to 90 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beans are soft and the liquid has thickened.
Step 8: Check liquid level during cooking and add more water or broth if needed. Remove bay leaves. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Southern Style Butter Beans

Keep these in mind:

Soaking beans helps to reduce cooking time.
Adjust seasoning according to your preference.
For an extra rich flavor, consider adding a smoked ham hock or more bacon.
If you’re short on time, cooking butter beans in a crockpot is an excellent alternative; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Delicious Southern Style Butter Beans Recipe to Savor - Southern Style Butter Beans - main visual representation

Best Ways to Serve Southern Style Butter Beans

These butter beans are versatile and can be served in various ways. Pair them with Southern butter beans with ham for a hearty meal, or enjoy them as a Southern-style beans side dish alongside fried chicken or cornbread. Also, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick!

How to Store and Reheat Southern Style Butter Beans

To store leftover Southern Style Butter Beans, let them cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to five days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain their creamy texture. This dish is perfect for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Southern Style Butter Beans

What’s the secret to perfect Southern Style Butter Beans?

The secret lies in the cooking time and seasoning. Make sure to simmer them gently until they are tender. Proper seasoning with salt and pepper enhances their flavor, making them a delightful butter beans recipe.

Can I make Southern Style Butter Beans ahead of time?

Absolutely! These beans taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just prepare them in advance, store in the fridge, and reheat when ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Southern Style Butter Beans?

Common mistakes include not soaking the beans or overcooking them, leading to mushiness. Always check your beans periodically while cooking, and ensure they are tender but not falling apart.

Variations of Southern Style Butter Beans You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these delicious variations! You can make traditional southern butter beans by adding tomatoes and okra, or try Southern butter beans with bacon for a smoky twist. For a vegetarian option, substitute bacon with sautéed mushrooms for a rich flavor without meat!

Delicious Southern Style Butter Beans Recipe to Savor - Southern Style Butter Beans - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our Chocolate Eclair Cake or Creamy Tuscan Scallops. If you’re interested in meal prep, our Sweet Tangy Sausage Rice is a great option!

For more information on the health benefits of beans, you can visit Healthline.