Skillet

Smoky Bacon And White Bean Skillet

Name: Smoky Bacon And White Bean Skillet
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 6 slices of thick-cut bacon; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon of dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon of salt; 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper; 1 can of cannellini beans, drained and rinsed; 1/4 cup of chicken broth; 2 tablespoons of olive oil; 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley; 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese

By Wren Ashford · June 19, 2026 · Skillet

Prep20 min

Cook30 min

Total50 min

Serves4

There's something special about a skillet dish that brings everyone together. My Smoky Bacon And White Bean Skillet is one of those recipes that never fails to impress. I remember making it for my family on a chilly winter evening, and the aroma that filled our home was incredible. The combination of crispy bacon, tender white beans, and flavorful spices is a match made in heaven.

As a home cook, I'm always on the lookout for recipes that are easy to make, delicious, and satisfying. This skillet dish checks all the boxes. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner, and it's also a great option for a special occasion. The best part is that it's made with ingredients that are easily available, and the instructions are simple to follow.

I've perfected this recipe over the years, and I'm excited to share it with you. Whether you're a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook, you'll love the simplicity and flavor of this dish. So, let's get started and make some unforgettable memories with our loved ones.

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves comfort food. The smoky bacon and white beans are a classic combination that will leave you wanting more. The dish is also very versatile, and you can serve it with your favorite sides, such as crusty bread or a green salad.

In this recipe, I'll guide you through the process of making a delicious Smoky Bacon And White Bean Skillet. From preparation to cooking, I'll share my tips and tricks to ensure that your dish turns out perfectly. So, let's get cooking and make some magic happen in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
The dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner, and it's also a great option for a special occasion.
The combination of crispy bacon and tender white beans is a match made in heaven.
The recipe is very versatile, and you can adjust the level of heat and flavor to your liking.
The dish is comforting and satisfying, making it perfect for a chilly evening.
The recipe is also very budget-friendly, and it's a great way to feed a crowd.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to this recipe is the combination of flavors and textures. The crispy bacon adds a smoky flavor, while the white beans provide a creamy texture. The spices and herbs add depth and warmth to the dish, making it perfect for a chilly evening.

The cooking technique is also important. By cooking the bacon and beans in a skillet, we can achieve a nice crust on the bacon and a tender texture on the beans. The skillet also allows us to cook the dish quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the balance of flavors. The smoky bacon and spicy spices are balanced by the creamy white beans, creating a dish that is both flavorful and comforting. The recipe is also very versatile, and you can adjust the level of heat and flavor to your liking.

Overall, this recipe works because it combines simple ingredients with a few clever techniques to create a dish that is greater than the sum of its parts. With a little practice, you'll be making this recipe like a pro, and it will become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this recipe, you'll need a few simple ingredients. The most important ingredient is the bacon, which provides the smoky flavor and crispy texture. You'll also need white beans, such as cannellini or Great Northern beans, which add a creamy texture and mild flavor. The spices and herbs, such as garlic, onion, and thyme, add depth and warmth to the dish.

When shopping for ingredients, look for high-quality bacon that is thick-cut and smoked. You'll also want to choose fresh and flavorful spices and herbs. The white beans can be found in most supermarkets, and you can also use canned beans if you prefer.

6 slices of thick-cut baconLook for high-quality bacon that is thick-cut and smoked. This will provide the best flavor and texture for the dish.
1 large onion, choppedChoose a fresh and flavorful onion, such as a yellow or white onion. This will add a sweet and savory flavor to the dish.
3 cloves of garlic, mincedUse fresh garlic for the best flavor. You can also use garlic powder or garlic salt if you prefer.
1 teaspoon of dried thymeChoose fresh and flavorful thyme, such as English or French thyme. This will add a warm and slightly minty flavor to the dish.
1/2 teaspoon of saltUse kosher salt or sea salt for the best flavor. This will add a savory and slightly sweet flavor to the dish.
1/4 teaspoon of black pepperUse fresh and flavorful black pepper, such as Tellicherry or Malabar pepper. This will add a sharp and savory flavor to the dish.
1 can of cannellini beans, drained and rinsedChoose a high-quality can of beans that is low in sodium and added sugars. You can also use cooked dried beans if you prefer.
1/4 cup of chicken brothUse low-sodium chicken broth for the best flavor. You can also use vegetable broth or beef broth if you prefer.
2 tablespoons of olive oilChoose a high-quality olive oil that is extra-virgin and cold-pressed. This will add a rich and fruity flavor to the dish.
2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsleyUse fresh and flavorful parsley, such as curly-leaf or flat-leaf parsley. This will add a bright and fresh flavor to the dish.
1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheeseChoose a high-quality cheddar cheese that is sharp and flavorful. This will add a rich and creamy flavor to the dish.

Ingredients for Smoky Bacon And White Bean Skillet

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or Dutch ovenSharp chef's knifeCutting boardInstant-read thermometerSpatulaTongsMeasuring cups and spoons

How to Make Smoky Bacon And White Bean Skillet

1
Cut the bacon into 1-inch pieces and cook in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy, stirring occasionally. This should take about 10-12 minutes, or until the bacon reaches an internal temperature of 145 F.
2
Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave the grease in the skillet, as this will add flavor to the dish.
3
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, stirring occasionally. This should take about 5-7 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and starting to caramelize.
4
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This will add a rich and savory flavor to the dish.
5
Add the dried thyme to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This will add a warm and slightly minty flavor to the dish.
6
Add the cannellini beans to the skillet and cook until heated through, stirring occasionally. This should take about 5-7 minutes, or until the beans are tender and lightly browned.
7
Add the chicken broth to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet, as this will add flavor to the dish.
8
Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the beans to absorb the liquid.
9
Stir in the cooked bacon, chopped parsley, and grated cheddar cheese. Cook until the cheese is melted and the mixture is heated through.
10
Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add other seasonings, such as paprika or chili powder, if you prefer.
11
Serve the dish hot, garnished with additional parsley and cheese if desired. This is a hearty and satisfying meal that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
12
Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving, as this will allow the flavors to meld together and the beans to absorb the liquid.
13
Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the bacon and ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 145 F.

Expert Tips

Use high-quality ingredients, such as thick-cut bacon and fresh spices, to get the best flavor and texture.
Don't overcook the bacon, as this will make it tough and chewy. Instead, cook it until crispy and then set it aside.
Add the garlic and thyme to the skillet in the last minute of cooking, as this will preserve their flavor and aroma.
Use low-sodium chicken broth to reduce the salt content of the dish. You can also use vegetable broth or beef broth if you prefer.
Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving, as this will allow the flavors to meld together and the beans to absorb the liquid.
Experiment with different seasonings and ingredients to make the dish your own. You can add paprika, chili powder, or other spices to give it a unique flavor.
Serve the dish with crusty bread or over rice to soak up the flavorful broth.
Make the dish ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use. This is a great option for meal prep or cooking for a crowd.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the bacon, which makes it tough and chewy.
Not using enough liquid, which can make the dish dry and flavorless.
Not seasoning the dish enough, which can make it bland and unappetizing.
Not letting the dish rest before serving, which can make it lack flavor and texture.
Using low-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.
Not stirring the dish occasionally, which can cause it to burn or stick to the skillet.

Variations and Substitutions

Add diced ham or cooked sausage to the skillet for added protein and flavor.
Use different types of beans, such as kidney beans or black beans, for a unique flavor and texture.
Add diced bell peppers or other vegetables to the skillet for added flavor and nutrition.
Use different types of cheese, such as Parmesan or feta, for a unique flavor and texture.
Add a sprinkle of paprika or chili powder to the dish for a smoky and spicy flavor.
Serve the dish with a side of crusty bread or over rice for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Make the dish in a slow cooker or Instant Pot for a hands-off and convenient meal.

What to Serve With Smoky Bacon And White Bean Skillet

This dish is perfect for serving with crusty bread or over rice. You can also serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad for a well-rounded meal. The smoky bacon and white beans make it a great option for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Consider serving the dish with a side of roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots, for a flavorful and nutritious meal. You can also serve it with a side of cornbread or biscuits for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Serve with crusty breadServe over riceServe with a side of steamed vegetablesServe with a side of roasted vegetablesServe with a side of cornbread or biscuitsServe with a green salad

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To refrigerate, let the dish cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. To freeze, let the dish cool completely and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag.

To reheat the dish, simply microwave it or heat it in a skillet over low heat. You can also add a little bit of liquid, such as chicken broth or water, to the dish to prevent it from drying out. Consider reheating the dish in a slow cooker or Instant Pot for a hands-off and convenient meal.

Make the dish ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use. This is a great option for meal prep or cooking for a crowd. Simply reheat the dish when you're ready to serve it, and enjoy the flavorful and satisfying meal.

When reheating the dish, make sure to stir it occasionally to prevent it from burning or sticking to the skillet. You can also add a little bit of oil or butter to the dish to prevent it from drying out. Consider serving the dish with a side of crusty bread or over rice to soak up the flavorful broth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of bacon should I use for this recipe?

You should use thick-cut bacon for this recipe, as it will provide the best flavor and texture. Look for bacon that is smoked or cured for added flavor.

Can I use canned beans instead of cooked dried beans?

Yes, you can use canned beans instead of cooked dried beans. Simply drain and rinse the beans before adding them to the skillet.

How do I prevent the dish from drying out?

To prevent the dish from drying out, make sure to stir it occasionally and add a little bit of liquid, such as chicken broth or water, as needed. You can also add a little bit of oil or butter to the dish to keep it moist.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use. Simply reheat the dish when you're ready to serve it, and enjoy the flavorful and satisfying meal.

What type of cheese should I use for this recipe?

You should use a high-quality cheddar cheese for this recipe, as it will provide the best flavor and texture. Look for cheese that is sharp and flavorful, and consider using a combination of cheddar and other cheeses for added flavor.

Can I add other ingredients to the dish?

Yes, you can add other ingredients to the dish to make it your own. Consider adding diced ham or cooked sausage for added protein, or diced bell peppers or other vegetables for added flavor and nutrition.

How do I store the dish?

You can store the dish in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To refrigerate, let the dish cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. To freeze, let the dish cool completely and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag.

Can I serve the dish with a side of bread or over rice?

Yes, you can serve the dish with a side of bread or over rice. This will help to soak up the flavorful broth and add to the overall satisfaction of the meal.

The Full Recipe

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