This low-carb green bean and beef casserole combines ground beef, green beans, and...
- 45 min
18 net carbs
White Beans & Bacon
These easy low-carb white beans with bacon are the perfect blend of beans, herbs, spices, and of course, plenty of bacon! This savory, comforting meal is always a hit.
- Recipe last updated: May 27, 2024
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White Beans & Bacon
- Last Updated: May 27, 2024
- 2 Comments
Low-Carb White Beans and Bacon
*Net carbs are per serving
Ingredients
- 8 slices bacon, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons red wine, or red wine vinegar
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 15-ounce cans, white cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- salt & pepper to taste
Optional Garnish
- fresh chopped parsley
Instructions
- In a heavy bottom skillet (or enameled cast iron skillet) over medium heat, fry the bacon until crispy.
- Add garlic, and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add red wine (or red wine vinegar) and 1/2 cup of chicken broth to the skillet, stir to deglaze the pan, and loosen any brown bits from cooking the bacon. Add the basil, parsley, rosemary, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
- Add the remaining chicken broth and the beans. Bring to a low simmer and cook until most of the liquid has cooked down, approximately 20 minutes.
- Salt and pepper to taste. (*You may not need extra salt here since most bacon is quite salty.) Optional: garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
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Nutrition
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Notes
- Chopped bacon – Our favorite “trick” to chopping bacon when raw is to cut it with kitchen scissors into approx 1” chunks. We find this easier, quicker, and less messy than cutting with a knife. Pre-chopping bacon before cooking also allows it to cook faster and more evenly than frying bacon strips.
- Herbs – If you have a favorite herb blend that you prefer you can certainly change the herbs in this recipe. One of our favorite variations gives more of a fall flavor profile by using rosemary, thyme, sage, and parsley. If you don’t care for herbs at all, you can omit them and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh herbs?
Absolutely! If you have access to fresh herbs, you can definitely use them in this recipe! For the basil and rosemary, you’ll want to use 1-2 tablespoons of chopped herbs. For the parsley, use 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley.
Can I use a different variety of beans?
We really love the flavor of cannellini beans in this recipe. Navy beans or great northern beans have a similar flavor and would work well in this recipe. We haven’t tested this recipe with other bean varieties.
Do beans have too many carbohydrates to be low-carb?
This depends on your definition of low-carb. Total Diabetes Wellness defines a low-carb as consisting of 50-100 grams of net carbs per day. By this definition, beans, in moderation, are perfectly acceptable on a low-carb diet. Beans are also a great source of fiber, which is extremely beneficial for overall health and especially important for people with diabetes who are insulin resistant.
Is this low-carb white beans with bacon recipe Keto?
No, this recipe is not Keto. With 18 grams of net carbs per serving this recipe is on the higher side of low-carb. If you’re closely watching carbs, you’ll want to make sure this is a side dish with a very low carb main dish so that you don’t go over your macros.
Is white beans with bacon gluten-free?
Yes! This white beans with bacon recipe is gluten-free.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
- Make-ahead: For best results, we recommend cooking this recipe when you’re ready to eat.
- Storing leftovers: Leftover white beans with bacon should be stored in an air-tight container in the refrigerator and will last for 3-4 days.
- Freezing instructions: Yes, this recipe freezes well. Make sure the white beans with bacon have cooled completely, and store in an air-tight, freezer-safe container. This recipe will last in the freezer for 3-6 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
- To reheat: You can reheat white beans with bacon in a small pan on the stovetop with a little extra chicken broth so they don’t dry out. You can also microwave leftovers if preferred.
Additional Details
When it comes to comforting, hearty dishes, few things beat the classic combination of white beans and bacon. This soul-warming recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also fits perfectly into a low-carb diet suitable for people with diabetes.
White beans, often called navy beans or cannellini beans, are a nutritional powerhouse. Packed with fiber, protein, and essential nutrients like iron, potassium, and folate, they make a perfect choice for those managing diabetes. The low glycemic index of white beans helps regulate blood sugar levels, making them an ideal addition to your diet.
Bacon, on the other hand, adds a delightful smoky flavor to the dish. Bacon offers a satisfying richness and pairs perfectly with the beans. Together, these ingredients create a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients and Their Purpose
Before we jump into the recipe, let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients and their roles in this dish:
- White Beans: As the star of the show, white beans provide a creamy texture and a mild, nutty flavor. Their fiber content aids in stabilizing blood sugar levels, making them an excellent choice for diabetics.
- Bacon: Adds a savory, smoky note to the dish, elevating its overall taste. While bacon contains fats, opting for lean cuts and using it sparingly can help keep the dish diabetes-friendly.
Tips and Variations
- Chopped Bacon: To make preparation easier, consider using kitchen scissors to cut the bacon into approximately 1-inch chunks. This method speeds up cooking and ensures even cooking.
- Herb Variations: If you have a preferred herb blend, feel free to customize the herbs in this recipe. For a fall-inspired flavor, try using rosemary, thyme, sage, and parsley. If you’re not a fan of herbs, you can omit them and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add Veggies: To boost the nutritional content, consider adding diced tomatoes, spinach, or bell peppers for a burst of color and extra vitamins.
- Spice it Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some zing.
- Cheese Lover’s Twist: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or crumbled feta cheese over the dish for an extra layer of richness.
What to Serve with White Beans and Bacon
This versatile dish can be enjoyed in various ways:
- As a Main Dish: Serve it as a hearty main course, garnished with fresh chopped parsley. A slice of whole-grain bread complements it well.
- As a Side Dish: White beans and bacon make an excellent side for grilled chicken, roasted pork, or seared fish. Its savory profile pairs beautifully with various proteins.
- With Low-Carb Options: For those watching carb intake closely, pair this dish with a very low-carb main course to stay within your macros.
Benefits for People with Diabetes
This white beans and bacon recipe offers several advantages for individuals managing diabetes:
- Low Glycemic Index: White beans have a low glycemic index, meaning they have a slow and steady impact on blood sugar levels. This helps prevent spikes and crashes, promoting better diabetes management.
- Balanced Nutrition: The combination of white beans and bacon provides a balanced mix of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, helping to stabilize blood sugar levels and keep you feeling full longer.
- Rich in Fiber: The fiber in white beans aids digestion and helps control blood sugar by slowing the absorption of glucose in the bloodstream.
- Delicious Comfort Food: Managing diabetes doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. This recipe offers comfort and satisfaction without compromising your dietary goals.
- Moderate Carbohydrates: While not suitable for a strict keto diet, this recipe aligns with a low-carb approach that many individuals with diabetes find beneficial. It provides 26 grams of net carbs per serving, making it suitable for those with moderate carb allowances.
- Gluten-Free: This white beans with bacon recipe is gluten-free, offering an option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
In the world of diabetes-friendly recipes, white beans and bacon shine as a comforting and flavorful choice. Packed with fiber, protein, and nutrients, this dish provides a delicious and nutritious option for those managing their blood sugar levels. With a few variations and serving suggestions, you can customize this classic recipe to suit your taste buds and dietary needs. So, whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing it with loved ones, this white beans and bacon recipe is sure to become a comforting favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the hearty goodness while nourishing your body and keeping your diabetes in check!
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This Post Has 2 Comments
Linda Long
Sep 1 2023A great side dish. I used fresh herbs from my garden instead of the dried herbs. Will make again in the future.
Total Diabetes Wellness
Sep 1 2023Thank you for your feedback, Linda! Fresh herbs in this recipe sounds delicious. We’re so glad you enjoyed this recipe!