The Best Homemade Collard Greens Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This homemade collard greens recipe brings a taste of comfort and tradition to your table, perfect for any occasion. Fresh collards, tender and flavorful, pair beautifully with smoky bacon or ham for a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. It’s easy to prepare, even for beginners, and uses simple ingredients you might already have on hand. Plus, it’s a versatile side that complements everything from fried chicken to barbecue. Whether you’re cooking for family or a crowd, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Recipe

Collard greens are a Southern staple, known for their hearty texture and rich, savory flavor. This traditional recipe brings out the best in these leafy greens, slow-cooked with smoky bacon and a touch of vinegar for a perfect balance of taste.

Ingredients:

• 1 large bunch collard greens (about 2 lbs)
• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Wash the collard greens thoroughly, remove stems, and chop leaves into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
3. Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the chopped collard greens to the pot, stirring to coat them in the bacon drippings.
5. Pour in the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Add red pepper flakes if using.
6. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the greens are tender.
7. Stir in the reserved bacon and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Notes:

• For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use olive oil instead.
• Collard greens taste even better the next day as flavors deepen.

Equipment:

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Knife and cutting board
• Wooden spoon

Time:

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 1 hour

Cuisine: Southern

Serving: 6-8 servings

Nutrition

Collard greens are packed with essential nutrients and provide a healthy addition to any meal. Below is the nutritional breakdown for a typical serving of homemade collard greens.

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my collard greens with classic Southern sides like cornbread or mac and cheese—it’s comfort food at its best. For a heartier meal, I’ll add a protein such as fried chicken, smoked turkey, or even grilled pork chops. These combinations make the greens shine while keeping the meal balanced and satisfying.

Classic Southern Sides

When I’m making collard greens, I love pairing them with sides that feel just as comforting and hearty. A big scoop of creamy, buttery mashed potatoes is my go-to—it balances the greens’ tangy bite perfectly. I’ll also whip up some fluffy cornbread with a hint of sweetness; its crumbly texture soaks up the potlikker so well. Black-eyed peas or stewed okra add that extra Southern charm, making the meal feel complete. And, of course, I can’t forget a side of mac and cheese—its gooey goodness just ties everything together. These sides make every bite feel like home.

Protein Pairing Options

There’s nothing like a plate of collard greens alongside the right protein to turn a simple meal into something special. I love pairing them with smoky pulled pork—the rich, tender meat balances the greens’ earthy bite. Fried chicken is another winner, its crispy crust adding texture. For a lighter option, grilled shrimp or blackened salmon work beautifully, letting the greens shine. If you’re keeping it classic, a juicy ham hock or turkey leg infuses extra flavor. Even a simple bowl of beans and rice feels hearty next to collards. Whatever you choose, the combo will make every bite satisfying.