If you have a craving for a hearty, soulful side dish that bursts with flavor, then this Southern Collard Greens with Bacon Recipe is exactly what you need. Rich, smoky bacon meets tender, vibrant collard greens simmered to perfection in seasoned chicken broth, creating a dish that is both comforting and downright addictive. This classic Southern staple transforms simple ingredients into a plate full of goodness, with just the right touch of spice and tang from apple cider vinegar to keep your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re serving it alongside fried chicken or enjoying it solo, these collard greens bring a warm, nostalgic hug to the table every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the short list fool you—each ingredient in this Southern Collard Greens with Bacon Recipe plays a crucial role in building the perfect balance of textures and flavors. From the crispy bacon fat that adds savory depth to the fresh greens and aromatic garlic and onions, these essentials come together in harmony for a dish that’s simple yet spectacular.
- 1 tablespoon oil: Helps render bacon fat and sauté aromatics for that perfect savory base.
- 4 ounces bacon (cut into bite-sized pieces): Brings a smoky, rich flavor that infuses every bite of the greens.
- ½ sweet onion (finely diced): Adds subtle sweetness and a tender bite to soften the earthiness of the greens.
- 3 cloves garlic (finely minced): Provides fragrant depth and a hint of pungency to elevate the dish.
- 2 large bunches collard greens (washed and drained): The star ingredient, offering hearty texture and beautiful green color.
- 2 cups chicken broth (regular sodium): Infuses flavor while helping the greens soften and mellow.
- ½ teaspoon salt (to taste): Essential to enhance and balance all the flavors in the pot.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (to taste): Adds gentle heat and complexity.
- 1-2 teaspoons red pepper flakes (optional): Perfect for a little kick if you enjoy a spicy edge.
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar: Brings a bright, tangy finish that wakes up the richness of the bacon and greens.
How to Make Southern Collard Greens with Bacon Recipe
Step 1: Thoroughly Wash and Prep the Collard Greens
Start by making sure your collard greens are perfectly clean. Since these leafy greens often come with dirt tucked between their folds, fill a clean sink with water and immerse the leaves, shaking them gently to dislodge any grit. Pat them dry thoroughly with a towel to avoid watering down your dish later. This initial step ensures every bite is fresh and crisp without any unwanted surprises.
Step 2: Remove the Tough Stems and Tear the Leaves
Next, carefully cut out the thick rib at the base of each collard green leaf using a sharp knife in a V-shaped cut. Removing this fibrous part makes the greens tender and easier to enjoy. Then, either tear or slice the leaves into roughly 1-inch by 2-inch pieces—this size helps the greens cook evenly and maintain a wonderful bite.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon Until Crispy
Heat oil and bacon in a large skillet or pot over medium heat, letting the bacon render its fat and crisp up perfectly. Cooking for about 7-8 minutes should achieve that irresistible crunch. Once done, remove the bacon and drain it on paper towels. Don’t toss the leftover bacon grease—this flavorful fat will be the base for sautéing your onions and garlic, packing incredible taste into the dish.
Step 4: Sauté Onions and Garlic in Bacon Grease
In the same skillet with reserved bacon grease (adding oil if needed), cook the diced onions for 2-3 minutes until soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic for another minute, stirring constantly to release its aroma—but be careful not to burn it! This combination creates a fragrant, caramelized foundation that perfectly complements the earthy greens.
Step 5: Add Greens, Broth, and Seasonings
Now it’s time to pile in the collard greens, followed by chicken broth to provide moisture and flavor. Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, and if you like, red pepper flakes for some heat. Give everything a good stir so the seasonings and liquid embrace the greens evenly, setting the stage for slow, flavorful cooking.
Step 6: Simmer Until Tender
Cover the skillet and let your collard greens simmer gently over medium-low heat for 35-40 minutes. Every 10 minutes, give the pot a stir to make sure the greens soften uniformly and nothing sticks to the bottom. Patience here pays off because slow cooking tenderizes the greens just right without losing their vibrant green color.
Step 7: Finish with Bacon and Vinegar
Once the collard greens are tender to your liking, turn off the heat and fold in the crispy bacon along with the apple cider vinegar. This final step adds that perfect tang and smoky crunch that makes this Southern Collard Greens with Bacon Recipe irresistibly good. Serve them piping hot and prepare for genuine Southern comfort!
How to Serve Southern Collard Greens with Bacon Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your presentation with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a pinch of extra red pepper flakes for heat lovers. A few drops of additional apple cider vinegar just before serving can brighten the flavor even more. For a splash of color, chopped green onions or a few crispy bacon bits on top add both texture and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
Southern collard greens with bacon pair beautifully with classic comfort foods like crispy fried chicken, buttermilk biscuits, or creamy mashed potatoes. They also balance rich mains such as pork chops or smoked sausage. For a lighter twist, serve them alongside cornbread and a fresh tomato salad for a lovely contrast of tastes and textures.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the basic bowl when serving this dish. Try layering the greens as a bed beneath grilled meats or serve them in small ramekins as a sideplate for a family-style dinner. You can even sprinkle some crumbled bacon over deviled eggs to sneak in that Southern vibe. This Southern Collard Greens with Bacon Recipe adapts well to casual dinners or festive gatherings alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer your collard greens to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious. Just be sure to keep the bacon mixed in so the smoky notes permeate every forkful.
Freezing
You can freeze Southern collard greens with bacon for up to 3 months. Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing as much air as possible to reduce ice crystals. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the greens and revive their moisture. Stir often to prevent sticking and to bring back that fresh-tasting vibrancy. You can also microwave leftovers covered with a damp paper towel for convenience—just watch the time to avoid drying out the collards.
FAQs
Can I use smoked turkey instead of bacon?
Absolutely! Smoked turkey adds a wonderful smoky flavor without the fat from bacon. Just cook the turkey first to render flavor, then proceed with sautéing the aromatics. It’s a leaner option that still keeps the Southern soul.
Why do I need to remove the collard green stems?
The stems are thick and fibrous, which can make the greens tough and chewy. Removing them allows the leaves to cook evenly and become tender, making the dish more enjoyable to eat.
Is it necessary to use apple cider vinegar?
While not mandatory, apple cider vinegar brightens the rich flavors of the bacon and greens and adds a lovely tang that cuts through the heaviness, balancing the dish beautifully.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply omit the bacon and use olive oil to sauté the aromatics. Consider adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke to introduce a hint of smokiness that bacon normally provides.
How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes?
Red pepper flakes give a mild to moderate heat depending on how much you add. Using 1 teaspoon will offer a gentle warmth, while 2 teaspoons will pack a bit more punch. Adjust according to your heat preference.
Final Thoughts
This Southern Collard Greens with Bacon Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. It’s hearty, flavorful, and absolutely full of character without being complicated. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for collard greens more often, looking forward to that perfect balance of smoky bacon and tender greens with every forkful. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this timeless Southern classic—you won’t regret it!
Print
Southern Collard Greens with Bacon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This recipe showcases Southern-style collard greens cooked to tender perfection with crispy bacon, aromatic onions, garlic, and a hint of tangy apple cider vinegar. A classic, comforting side dish perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Greens Preparation
- 2 large bunches collard greens (washed and drained)
- ½ sweet onion (finely diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (finely minced)
Cooking Essentials
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 4 ounces bacon (cut into bite-sized pieces)
Seasonings & Liquids
- 2 cups chicken broth (regular sodium)
- ½ teaspoon salt (to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
- 1–2 teaspoons red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Wash Greens: If collard greens have visible dirt, wash and dry them thoroughly by immersing in water, shaking off dirt, and patting dry until no moisture remains.
- Prepare Greens: Remove the thick ribs by making a V-shaped incision at the base of each leaf, then cut or tear into 1-inch by 2-inch pieces.
- Cook Bacon: Heat oil and bacon pieces in a large skillet over medium heat for 7-8 minutes until crispy. Remove bacon and drain on paper towels, reserving about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add diced onion to the bacon grease and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add Greens and Season: Add collard greens to the skillet, pour in chicken broth, and season with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
- Simmer Greens: Cover skillet with a lid and cook over medium-low heat for 35-40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to ensure even cooking and tender greens.
- Finish and Serve: Once greens are tender, turn off heat and mix in cooked bacon and apple cider vinegar. Serve immediately for best flavor.
Notes
- Ensure greens are thoroughly cleaned to remove grit.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to taste for desired heat level.
- Use regular or low-sodium chicken broth depending on dietary preference.
- For a vegetarian version, omit bacon and substitute with smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Serve as a classic Southern side with cornbread or smoked meats.
