Description
This Hearty Southern Collard Green Potato Stew is smoky, savory, and full of soul! Packed with tender collard greens, creamy potatoes, and bits of bacon or ham, this cozy stew is classic Southern comfort at its finest.
Ingredients
**For the Stew Base**
4 slices bacon (or ½ lb smoked ham), chopped
1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups collard greens, cleaned and chopped
3 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt & black pepper, to taste
**For Serving**
Hot sauce (optional)
Cornbread or crusty bread
Instructions
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove and set aside, leaving 1–2 tbsp drippings in the pot.
2. Add onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in collard greens and cook until wilted, about 3 minutes.
4. Add potatoes, diced tomatoes, broth, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are tender and broth is flavorful.
6. Return cooked bacon to the pot and stir to combine.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning — add more salt, pepper, or hot sauce to your liking.
8. Serve hot with cornbread or crusty bread for a truly Southern comfort meal!
Notes
Make it vegetarian by skipping the bacon and using vegetable broth.
Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist.
This stew tastes even better the next day — perfect for meal prep!
For extra flavor, stir in a spoonful of cream or shredded cheese before serving.