This simple Potato and Green Bean Skillet is a hearty, comforting side dish made with tender potatoes and crisp-tender green beans cooked together with onion, garlic, and savory seasonings. It’s inexpensive, easy to prepare, and pairs perfectly with almost any main course.
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into smaller pieces
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning, optional
- ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, optional
Instructions
1. Cook the Potatoes
Place the potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 7–9 minutes, just until they begin to soften.
Drain well and set aside.
2. Prepare the Green Beans
Bring another pot of water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for about 3–4 minutes.
Drain and rinse briefly with cold water to help preserve their color and texture.
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, until softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30–60 seconds, until fragrant.
4. Combine Everything
Add the potatoes and green beans to the skillet.
Sprinkle with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning if using.
Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
5. Simmer
Pour in the broth and cover the skillet.
Cook over medium-low heat for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are completely tender and the flavors have come together.
Remove the lid during the final few minutes if you want the potatoes to develop lightly browned edges.
6. Garnish and Serve
Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Tips for the Best Potato and Green Bean Skillet
- Cut the potatoes into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
- Don’t overcook the green beans; they should remain tender with a little bite.
- For extra flavor, cook a few slices of bacon in the skillet first, then use some of the rendered fat to cook the onions.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
- A small squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens the whole dish.
What to Serve With It
This potato and green bean combination goes wonderfully with:
- Fried or roasted chicken
- Meatloaf
- Pork chops
- Grilled steak
- Baked fish
- Roast beef
- Sausage
It’s a comforting, old-fashioned side dish that’s simple, filling, flavorful, and perfect for a family dinner. 🥔💚