There’s something incredibly comforting about the rich, smoky aroma of Slow Cooker Collard Greens with Bacon wafting through the kitchen. As the first hints of spring begin to bloom, I can’t help but think of this Southern-style dish, perfect for family gatherings or any weeknight dinner when you crave a taste of home. The tender greens meld beautifully with the crispy bacon and sweet onions, while a splash of apple cider vinegar ties everything together with a delightful tang.
I first made these collard greens in my trusty crock pot on a chilly evening, hoping for warmth both in flavor and mood. The result was nothing short of heavenly—a dish that captured the essence of comfort food, yet offered effortless preparation. Ideal for busy chefs or anyone looking to break free from the cycle of takeout, these collard greens are a simple yet elegant way to elevate any meal. Join me as we dive into this comforting recipe, exploring how to achieve that classic Southern taste with minimal fuss.
Why are Crock Pot Collard Greens with Bacon a must-try?
Unmatched Flavor: The delicious blend of smoky bacon and tender greens creates a symphony of taste that enhances any meal.
Ease of Preparation: Simply toss the ingredients into your crock pot, and let it work its magic while you go about your day.
Versatile Side Dish: Whether it’s served at a family gathering or a quick weeknight dinner, these collard greens complement a variety of main courses.
Hearty and Comforting: Each bite embodies soul food tradition, making it perfect for anyone yearning for a taste of home.
Crowd Pleaser: Enjoyed by kids and adults alike, they’re an easy way to introduce more greens into your family’s diet without any complaints.
Crock Pot Collard Greens with Bacon Ingredients
For the Greens
- Collard Greens – Tender and flavorful; remove tough center stems to improve texture.
- Bacon – Adds richness and smoky depth; can substitute with turkey bacon or omit for a vegetarian option.
- Onion – Provides a savory base that enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Garlic – Infuses the greens with aromatic goodness and depth of flavor.
For the Liquid
- Chicken Stock – Acts as the moisture and flavor base; vegetable stock works just as well for a meat-free version.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Essential for adding tang and balancing the rich flavors in the collard greens.
For the Heat
- Crushed Red Pepper – Adds a kick of warmth; adjust according to your spice preference.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Key seasonings; add at the end to keep the greens tender.
For Extra Flavor
- Bacon Drippings – Use reserved drippings from cooked bacon to enhance the flavor.
Now you’re ready to create the perfect Crock Pot Collard Greens with Bacon that will warm hearts and bring smiles to the table!
How to Make Crock Pot Collard Greens with Bacon
Cook Bacon: In a skillet, cook cut bacon until crisp, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 2 tablespoons of the drippings for extra flavor and set the bacon aside to cool, then crumble it.
Prepare Greens: Remove tough stems from the collard greens and chop the leaves into 2-3 inch pieces. Make sure to wash them thoroughly to remove any grit.
Sauté Aromatics: Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Sautéing these aromatics will enhance their flavors before adding them to the slow cooker.
Combine Ingredients: In the slow cooker, whisk together the chicken stock, reserved bacon drippings, apple cider vinegar, and crushed red pepper. Add in the collard greens, sautéed onion, and garlic, making sure everything is well mixed.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 10 hours until the greens are tender and flavorful, soaking up all that smoky goodness.
Season: Just before serving, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, then stir in the crumbled bacon for that final hearty touch.
Optional: Serve with a drizzle of hot sauce for an added kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Crock Pot Collard Greens with Bacon?
Pairing delicious sides and drinks can complete your comforting meal.
Cornbread: This classic Southern staple complements the greens perfectly, soaking up all those savory juices for a delightful experience.
Fried Chicken: A crunchy, crispy favorite that harmonizes beautifully with the tender greens, creating the ultimate comfort food feast.
Baked Macaroni and Cheese: Rich, creamy, and indulgent, this dish adds a satisfying contrast to the slightly tangy collard greens.
Mashed Potatoes: Buttery and fluffy, mashed potatoes create a comforting base to balance the smoky flavors of the greens.
Hot Sauce: For those who crave a kick, a drizzle of hot sauce perks up the flavors and enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Sweet Tea: A refreshing, sweet beverage that beautifully complements the savory notes of the collard greens and elevates the Southern dining experience.
Pecan Pie: For a sweet ending, this rich dessert wonderfully contrasts with the savory greens, offering a taste of home that satisfies every palate.
Coleslaw: The cool, crisp texture of coleslaw provides a refreshing balance, making each bite of the meal feel bright and lively.
Grilled Sausages: Adding smoky grilled sausages to the table brings an extra protein element that pairs wonderfully with the greens and enhances the Southern charm.
Fried Catfish: A crispy, flavorful fish option that pairs beautifully with collard greens, creating a hearty Southern spread you won’t forget.
Crock Pot Collard Greens with Bacon Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutions that elevate your dish to new heights of flavor and texture!
Mustard Greens: Swap collard greens for mustard greens for a peppery, slightly tangy flavor that’s a delicious alternative.
Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and use olive oil for richness while adding smoked paprika for that savory depth. Trust me, you won’t miss the meat!
Turnip Greens: If you can’t find collard greens, turnip greens are equally tender and provide a wonderfully mild flavor profile that complements the smoky broth beautifully.
Spice it Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of Hot Sauce before serving for an extra kick that’ll awaken your taste buds.
Smoky Depth: Use smoked chicken stock instead of regular stock to infuse your collard greens with a deep, savory aroma that mimics the essence of bacon.
Sweet Balance: For a touch of sweetness, add a tablespoon of brown sugar or honey to the cooking liquid; it balances the acidity beautifully and rounds out the flavors.
Lemon Zing: Brighten the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving; it adds a fresh, zesty lift that enhances every bite.
Herb Infusion: Toss in some fresh thyme or smoked paprika while cooking for a fragrant twist that harmonizes beautifully with the savory notes of the dish.
Expert Tips for Crock Pot Collard Greens with Bacon
Wash Thoroughly: Ensure collard greens are well washed to remove grittiness—nothing ruins a dish like sandy bites.
Stem Removal: Always remove tough center stems completely to avoid chewiness, making for a more pleasant texture.
Salt Wisely: Add salt and black pepper at the end of cooking to keep the greens tender; seasoning too early can toughen them.
Vinegar Balance: If you find the dish too bitter, a splash of apple cider vinegar or a pinch of sugar can beautifully balance out the flavors.
Customize Heat: Feel free to adjust the crushed red pepper according to your spice preference; more heat can elevate the flavor profile of these collard greens.
Make Ahead Options
These Crock Pot Collard Greens with Bacon are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can wash and chop the collard greens, as well as sauté the onions and garlic, up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and crisp. Additionally, cook the bacon and reserve its drippings ahead of time to save even more time. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine all prepped ingredients in the slow cooker with the chicken stock and apple cider vinegar, and let it cook on low for about 10 hours. This way, you’ll have a hearty, comforting dish ready with minimal effort, making dinner a breeze!
How to Store and Freeze Crock Pot Collard Greens with Bacon
Fridge: Store your collard greens in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This will keep them fresh while making them easy to reheat.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the collard greens in portions for up to 3 months. Add a bit of cooking liquid to maintain moisture upon thawing.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm in a pot over low heat or in the microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally.
Freshness Tip: Always check for signs of spoilage before consuming; the collard greens should have a fresh aroma and vibrant color for the best taste.
Crock Pot Collard Greens with Bacon Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting collard greens?
When selecting collard greens, choose vibrant leaves that are deep green and free from any discoloration or dark spots. The leaves should feel crisp and have a fresh aroma. Avoid greens that appear wilted or have yellow spots; they may not be as tender or flavorful. If collard greens are unavailable, mustard greens or turnip greens are great substitutes!
How long can I store leftover collard greens in the fridge?
You can store your leftover Crock Pot Collard Greens with Bacon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to prevent excess moisture from forming inside the container.
Can I freeze my collard greens, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your collard greens, first allow them to cool completely. Portion them into freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring to add a bit of the cooking liquid to maintain moisture. Seal tightly, label with the date, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently!
What if my collard greens have a bitter taste?
If your collard greens taste bitter, don’t worry! You can balance the flavors by adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a small pinch of sugar toward the end of cooking. Stir well and taste again to see if the bitterness has been neutralized; this little trick usually works wonders!
Are these collard greens suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes! You can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting turkey bacon or simply omitting the bacon altogether. Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a fully vegetarian version. You’ll still enjoy rich and flavorful collard greens packed with taste!
What are some signs that my collard greens have spoiled?
Check your collard greens for any off smells, excessive wilting, or a slimy texture. If you notice any darkening of color or a foul odor, it’s time to discard them. Fresh collard greens should always have a pleasing, green aroma and a crisp texture!
Crock Pot Collard Greens with Bacon – Southern Comfort at Home
Equipment
- Crock Pot
Ingredients
For the Greens
- 2 bunches Collard Greens Remove tough center stems
- 6 slices Bacon Can substitute with turkey bacon
- 1 medium Onion Diced
- 2 cloves Garlic Minced
For the Liquid
- 4 cups Chicken Stock Vegetable stock for a meat-free version
- 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar
For the Heat
- 1 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Adjust according to preference
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black Pepper
For Extra Flavor
- 2 tablespoons Bacon Drippings Reserved from cooked bacon
Instructions
How to Make Crock Pot Collard Greens with Bacon
- In a skillet, cook cut bacon until crisp, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 2 tablespoons of the drippings and set the bacon aside to cool, then crumble it.
- Remove tough stems from the collard greens and chop the leaves into 2-3 inch pieces. Wash thoroughly to remove grit.
- Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Sauté these aromatics to enhance their flavors before adding them to the slow cooker.
- In the slow cooker, whisk together the chicken stock, reserved bacon drippings, apple cider vinegar, and crushed red pepper. Add the collard greens, sautéed onion, and garlic, mixing well.
- Cover and cook on low for 10 hours until the greens are tender and flavorful.
- Just before serving, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, then stir in the crumbled bacon.