Southern-Style Creamed Butter Beans with Garlic and Bacon

Let’s make it

1. 1

   Flavorings

   Cook the chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.

2. 2

   Flavorings

   Add butter to the hot bacon fat in the skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.

3. 3

   Beans and Cream

   Stir in the all-purpose flour, cooking and stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes to make a roux; this will thicken the sauce.

4. 4

   Beans and Cream

   Gradually whisk in the warm milk to the roux, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook the mixture over medium heat until it thickens and starts to bubble gently, about 5 minutes.

5. 5

   Beans and Cream

   Reduce heat to low and add the cream cheese, stirring until fully melted and incorporated into the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

6. 6

   Beans and Cream

   Fold in the drained butter beans and cooked bacon pieces into the creamy sauce. Heat gently for 3-4 minutes until beans are warmed through and flavors meld.

7. 7

   Serving

   Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve warm as a comforting Southern-style side dish.