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A high-resolution image showcasing a rustic cast-iron skillet filled with hearty smothered green beans and potatoes, garnished with fresh parsley and subtle steam rising.

Smothered Green Beans and Potatoes

A comforting, homestyle recipe featuring tender green beans and perfectly cubed potatoes smothered in a savory sauce—ideal for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Comfort Food, Dinner, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4 people
Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Skillet Heavy, cast-iron skillet for even heat cooking
  • 1 Cutting Board Sturdy board for chopping vegetables
  • 1 Knife Sharp chef's knife for precision cutting
  • 1 Spatula Heat-resistant spatula for stirring and serving

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb Fresh green beans, trimmed & washed Ensure beans are fresh for best texture
  • 2 large Potatoes, peeled and cubed Use starchy potatoes for optimal consistency
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil Extra virgin recommended for flavor
  • 1 medium Onion, chopped Yellow onion works best
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced Adjust according to taste
  • taste Salt Preferably sea salt
  • taste Black pepper Freshly ground is ideal
  • 1 tbsp Rosemary Optional, for enhanced aroma
  • 1 tbsp Thyme Optional, pairs well with rosemary
  • A pinch Smoked paprika or cayenne pepper Optional, for a subtle heat boost

Instructions
 

  • Rinse and trim the green beans, then peel and cube the potatoes.
    1 lb Fresh green beans, trimmed & washed, 2 large Potatoes, peeled and cubed
    Person washing and trimming fresh green beans while peeling and cubing potatoes in a bright, well-lit kitchen.
  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant.
    2 tbsp Olive oil, 1 medium Onion, chopped, 3 cloves Garlic, minced
    Close-up of a skillet on a stovetop with olive oil heating up and chopped onions and minced garlic sizzling.
  • Add the green beans and potatoes to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the oil and aromatics.
    1 lb Fresh green beans, trimmed & washed, 2 large Potatoes, peeled and cubed
    Top-down view of a skillet with green beans and cubed potatoes being stirred with sautéed onions and garlic.
  • Cover the skillet, reduce the heat slightly, and let the dish simmer for about 20 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
    1 lb Fresh green beans, trimmed & washed, 2 large Potatoes, peeled and cubed, 2 tbsp Olive oil, 1 medium Onion, chopped, 3 cloves Garlic, minced
    A covered skillet on a stovetop with a gentle simmer and visible steam, indicating vegetables are cooking slowly.
  • Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional herbs. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
    taste Salt, taste Black pepper, 1 tbsp Rosemary
    A beautifully plated dish of smothered green beans and potatoes garnished with fresh parsley, with a hand sprinkling salt and pepper.

Notes

  • For best results, use fresh green beans and starchy potatoes to achieve the ideal texture.
  • Ensure that all vegetables are uniformly trimmed and cubed for even cooking.
  • Adjust the seasoning gradually; taste as you go to create the perfect balance of flavors.
  • Experiment with additional herbs such as rosemary and thyme for a richer, more aromatic profile.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of water to retain moisture.
  • This dish pairs well with a variety of proteins, like grilled chicken or fish, and can easily serve as a hearty main course or a comforting side dish.
  • Always garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add a burst of color and extra flavor before serving.
 
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Keyword comfort food, easy recipe, healthy vegetable recipe, homestyle cooking, smothered green beans and potatoes