Looking for a comforting, no-fuss side dish that brings the family together? This Instant Pot Southern Green Beans with Little Potatoes and Bacon recipe is your go-to solution. In just about 20 minutes, you can serve up a hearty dish that combines tender green beans, creamy Little Potatoes, and savory bacon—all cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot.​​

Ingredient Swaps & Tips:

  • Bacon Alternatives: No bacon on hand? Substitute with diced ham, smoked turkey, or a plant-based bacon alternative for a vegetarian twist.​

  • Green Bean Options: Fresh, frozen, or canned green beans all work well—use what’s convenient.​

  • Flavor Boosters: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.​

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this dish with grilled chicken, roasted pork, or enjoy it as a standalone meal. It’s also a fantastic addition to holiday spreads or potluck gatherings.​

Make-Ahead & Storage:

This dish reheats beautifully. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.​

Enjoy the comforting flavors of the South with this easy, adaptable recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Prep
15 mins
Cook
5 mins
Serves
6
Ingredients
8
Keep screen awake while cooking

Equipment

  • Instant Pot

Ingredients

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  • 8 slices bacon
  • 2 Tbsp vegetable or light olive oil
  • 1 shallot, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • (To taste) salt and pepper
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 1/2 lbs fresh green beans
  • 1.5 lbs Little Potatoes

Instructions

  • Step 1

    Slice bacon into 1/2-inch slices.

  • Step 2

    Turn on the ‘Sauté’ feature of a 6-quart (or larger) Instant Pot electric pressure cooker.

  • Step 3

    Add two tablespoons of oil to the bottom of the pot insert.

  • Step 4

    Add in sliced bacon. Cook and stir until bacon starts to turn light brown in color and lightly crispy.

  • Step 5

    Add in diced shallot. Season with salt and pepper and stir well. Once shallot has softened, stir in the minced garlic and turn off the ‘Sauté’ feature.

  • Step 6

    Pour in the water and scrape the bottom of the pot to de-glaze.

  • Step 7

    Add in green beans and potatoes and stir gently to combine.

  • Step 8

    Place the lid on the Instant Pot, taking care to lock it into place. Turn the steam release knob into the ‘Sealing’ position.

  • Step 9

    Press the ‘Pressure Cook’ button and adjust the time to five minutes on the high setting.

  • Step 10

    Pressure cooker will take about 10 minutes to come to pressure then it will begin counting down the cooking time.

  • Step 11

    When cooking is finished, do a quick pressure release (turning the steam release knob to ‘Venting’).

  • Step 12

    When ready to serve, gently pour it all into a large serving bowl. Beans should be soft and potatoes will be fork tender.