Southern Collard Greens (2024)

October 3, 2023 by Beth Pierce 91 Comments

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These southern-style Collard Greens are slow simmered greens with bacon, onion, garlic, and a perfect blend of seasonings to give it that down-home, fresh off-the-farm southern touch. This comfort side dish is one of our absolute favorites, and you don’t have to be a Southern cook to master them.

Collard Greens – a Southern Staple

Collard greens are a nutritious and delicious addition to any meal. Follow these easy steps to learn how to prepare and cook collard greens in no time! I love to serve it with fried pork chops, rice, black-eyed peas, and cornbread. Or smoked turkey with macaroni and cheese.

If your family is anything like mine, coming up with tasty side dishes that have not been served a gazillion times is always a challenge. If you have never tried collard greens or have not made them in years, then these are a must-try.

What are collard greens?

Collard greens are loose-leafed greens from the same family as mustard greens, turnip greens, broccoli, kale, and cabbage. Although my husband swears they taste like green beans, I like them better than mustard greens and kale. They are a staple at most Southern meals and are absolutely delicious when slow-simmered with bacon or ham hocks. Fresh collard greens are at their peak from January to April.

How to cook collard greens?

Start by cooking your bacon and onions until the bacon is crisp and the onions are soft. Then add your garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. Next, add the greens and cook until they start to soften and wilt. Stir in the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cover and simmer for about 1 hour, letting the liquid cook down, and the greens really cook tender. Then drain most of the excess chicken broth or use a slotted spoon to remove it. For best results, serve promptly with a side of hot sauce.

Ingredients for Southern Collard Greens

To make this recipe, you will need bacon, onion, garlic, collard green, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar or white vinegar, sugar, and seasonings like Cajun seasoning, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.

Recipe Tips

Look for greens in the refrigerated produce section of your local grocery store next to the kale and other greens. The freshest collard greens are in season from January through April.
Pro-tip – Bacon is easier to chop when frozen or partially frozen.
When picking the greens, look for dark green leaves that are not wilted and blemish-free. See below for tips on prepping and trimming them.
Just like spinach, the greens cook down in volume. A whole lot of greens are cooked down to several cups. So add some of the greens to the pot, cook them down to wilted, and add some more. Repeat till everything fits in the pot and the greens are wilted down before proceeding with the rest of the recipe.
After cooking, save the pot liquor in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days to flavor soups and stews.
Save a little bit of the crispy bacon to garnish the top.
They are best served promptly. However, leftovers heat up well in the microwave at reduced power.

How to Prep and Trim Collard Greens

Either rinse the leaves under cool water or wash them in a large sink full of cool water to remove dirt and grit. Then dry well with paper towels. Now fold the leaf in half lengthwise, making it easy to remove the tough stem and thick ribs. Then, using a sharp knife, cut away the stem and ribs. Now, lay the leaves on each other in a somewhat orderly stack and cut to the desired size. Some stores sell prepackaged collard greens prepped, washed, and ready to go.

What to Serve with Collard Greens

Oh my goodness, the possibilities are endless, and all amazingly delicious!

Smothered Chicken
Fried Catfish
Southern Potato Salad
Sweet Potato Cornbread
Chicken Fried Chicken
Cheesy Grits
Fried Chicken
Sweet Potato Salad
Smothered Pork Chops
Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Fried Apple

Storage and Reheat

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at reduced powder.

To freeze, add thoroughly cooled collard greens along with thepot liquorto a heavy-dutyfreezerbag. Flash freeze by laying flat on a baking sheet in thefreezer. Once fully frozen, store the bags on their side for easy access. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in therefrigeratorovernight and heat on low on the stovetop or in the microwave at reduced power.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe with frozen collard greens?

It is best to make this recipe with fresh greens. They need time to simmer with all the seasonings. I know they are difficult to find sometimes, but it is worth the effort.

Can you make collard greens ahead of time?

Sure! You can make them 1-2 days in advance. Store them in the refrigerator, and when ready to serve, heat them on the stovetop over low heat.

Can I make this recipe with other greens?

Add other greens, such as mustard or turnip greens. This method of cooking makes them all take about the same amount of time to cook.

What is pot liquor?

Pot liquor, sometimes referred to as potlikker, is the liquid left behind after cooking a pot of greens. You can save the pot liquor in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days to flavor soups and stews.

How can I make my collard greens less bitter?

Collard greens are naturally bitter, which is why they are an acquired taste. To tame the bitterness, add a splash of citrus juice or a little more vinegar. Simmer the greens longer. Add more seasonings, like salt and Cajun seasoning, or another tablespoon of sugar.

More Vegetable Recipes

Bacon Wrapped Asparagus

Creamed Peas with Pearl Onion

Cabbage Stir Fry

Roasted Corn

Southern Green Beans

Honey Roasted Carrots

Southern Collard Greens Recipe

These scrumptious and easy Southern Collard Greens are the perfect side for all your favorite southern main courses like fried catfish, hamburger steak, fried chicken, and smothered pork chops.

5 from 56 votes

Print Pin Rate

Course: side

Cuisine: Southern

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes minutes

Servings: 6 servings

Calories: 164kcal

Author: Beth Pierce

Ingredients

8 slices bacon chopped
1 medium onion finely chopped
3 cloves garlic
1 lb collard greens washed trimmed, and cut
3 cups chicken broth enough to cover the greens
1 1/2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
½ teaspoon cajun seasoning
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

In a large Dutch oven or pan over medium heat, brown the bacon. When the bacon is about halfway browned add the chopped onion. Cook until the bacon is browned and the onion is soft. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
Add the collard greens and cook until wilted and slightly softened. Add the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and crushed red pepper. Cover and simmer for 45-60 minutes, letting the liquid cook down and the greens really soften. Drain most of the liquid or use a slotted spoon to remove it. Salt and pepper to taste. For best results, serve promptly.

Notes

Look for greens in the refrigerated produce section of your local grocery store next to the kale and other greens. The freshest collard greens are in season from January through April.
Pro-tip – Bacon is easier to chop when frozen or partially frozen.
When picking the greens, look for dark green leaves that are not wilted and blemish free. See below for tips on prepping and trimming them.
After cooking, save the pot liquor in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days to flavor soups and stews.
Just like spinach, the greens cook down in volume. A whole lot of greens cook down to several cups. So add some of the greens to the pot, cook them down to wilted, and add some more. Repeat till everything fits in the pot, and the greens are wilted down before proceeding with the rest of the recipe.
Save a little bit of the crispy bacon to garnish the top.
They are best served promptly. However, leftovers heat up well in the microwave at reduced power.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To freeze, add fully cooled collard greens along with the pot liquor to a heavy-duty freezer bag. Flash freeze by laying flat on a baking sheet in the freezer. Once fully frozen, store the bags on their side for easy access. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat on low on the stovetop.

Nutrition

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https://www.smalltownwoman.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Beth-1.pdf

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Nutrition Disclaimer: All nutritional information shared on this site is an approximation. I am not a certified nutritionist and any nutritional information shared on this site should be used as a general guideline.

Reader Interactions

Comments

Katherine
March 31, 2024 at 8:58 am

The absolute best Collards I have ever had! Thank you so much for sharing
Reply
- Beth Pierce
  March 31, 2024 at 9:50 pm
  You are most welcome, Katherine!
  Reply
Mary R
February 18, 2024 at 5:26 pm

Delicious n super easy! Always thought these would be intimidating to make but this recipe is simple n it made our house smell wonderful. Would definitely use this one again
Reply
- Beth Pierce
  February 19, 2024 at 8:55 am
  Thank you, Mary! So glad that you liked the collard greens!
  Reply
Haley
January 09, 2024 at 8:58 pm
First off these greens made me go out and plant way too many collards in my florida winter garden. My question is , have you ever tried canning this recipe? I’m new to canning and i don’t want to change your recipe a BIT.
Reply
- Beth Pierce
  January 12, 2024 at 8:34 am
  Hey Haley, glad that you like the recipe. No I have not tried canning these but maybe one of the readers have.
  Reply
Anna
January 01, 2024 at 10:34 am
Can you use frozen collard greens?
Reply
See Also
Molasses Crinkle Scones | Sweet Ordeal | Fall Favorite Bourbon Bacon Brittle Rhubarb Custard Bars The Best Creamiest Baked Mashed Potatoes
- Beth Pierce
  January 01, 2024 at 3:40 pm
  No, you really need fresh collard greens for this recipe.
  Reply
Kate
December 25, 2023 at 5:18 pm

Hands down the best collards I’ve ever made! Was a huge hit for Christmas dinner – everyone loved it. Will definitely be making this again!
Reply
- Beth Pierce
  December 27, 2023 at 8:34 pm
  Thanks so much, Kate! Marry Christmas to you and your family!
  Reply
Ross
November 02, 2023 at 9:57 am

This is the BEST collard greens recipe I’ve ever had! The bacon totally sends this recipe over the top along with the perfect blend of seasonings.
Reply
- Beth Pierce
  November 06, 2023 at 7:22 am
  Thanks, Ross! I am so glad that you liked the collard greens.
  Reply
Ieva
November 01, 2023 at 12:04 pm

Great recipe that turns relatively boring greens into a tasty side dish! Loved it 🙂
Reply
- Beth Pierce
  November 01, 2023 at 9:37 pm
  Thanks so much, Ieva!
  Reply
Kate
November 01, 2023 at 11:28 am

These collard greens have such an incredible flavor!
Reply
Andrea
November 01, 2023 at 11:05 am

This southern classic was absolutely marvelous. The whole family loved it. Perfect with cornbread and fried chicken.
Reply
- Beth Pierce
  November 06, 2023 at 7:07 am
  Thanks, Andrea! I am so glad that you and your family liked the collard greens.
  Reply
Justine
November 01, 2023 at 10:27 am

Yessss….love collard greens, but some recipes can be so off the mark. This one was perfect! Made my heart happy.
Reply
- Beth Pierce
  November 06, 2023 at 7:14 am
  Thank you, Justine!
  Reply
- Brittany M
  January 03, 2024 at 7:57 pm
  
  I’ve tried a few different greens recipes but this one is by far my favorite! Accidentally omitted the paprika and Cajun seasoning the first time around and it still tasted great. Thanks so much for the recipe!
  Reply
  - Beth Pierce
    January 04, 2024 at 6:51 am
    Thanks, Brittany! I am so glad that you like the collard greens.
    Reply
Taylor
October 16, 2023 at 4:17 pm

I’m not usually a big fan of collard greens, but this is the BEST recipe I’ve ever tried! Super flavorful!
Reply
Tavo
October 16, 2023 at 1:45 pm

Your Southern Collard Greens hit all the right notes for me. The flavors melded together beautifully, and your tips on how to achieve that perfect texture were spot-on. I also appreciated the data on the nutritional benefits of collard greens—super informative without being overwhelming. This dish will definitely be a regular in my kitchen rotation.
Reply
- Beth Pierce
  October 22, 2023 at 10:02 am
  Thanks, Tavo! We love the greens too!
  Reply
Bobby
October 16, 2023 at 12:59 pm

These collard greens are amazing! I’ve always thought collard greens were just okay but this dish really took them to the next level. Definitely going to prepare them this way moving forward! Thank you!
Reply
- Beth Pierce
  October 22, 2023 at 10:01 am
  Thanks, Bobby! So glad that you like the collard greens.
  Reply
Kelley
October 16, 2023 at 12:39 pm

This is my first time making collard greens and I have to say these did not disappoint! Easy to make an so yummy thanks for the recipe!
Reply
- Beth Pierce
  October 17, 2023 at 8:13 am
  My pleasure, Kelley!
  Reply
Anjali
October 16, 2023 at 12:38 pm

This is my new favorite way to eat collard greens! They turned out perfectly tender and were packed with flavor!
Reply
- Beth Pierce
  October 17, 2023 at 8:08 am
  Thanks, Anjali! So glad that you liked them!
  Reply
Trisha
October 05, 2023 at 8:19 am

Excellent southern collard greens recipe. It reminded me of my grandmother’s recipe. Thanks for sharing, Beth!
Reply
Dawn
July 18, 2023 at 6:07 pm
I have never had collard greens and I’m 49…. So I decided our family needs to try something different to shake things up a bit… these are amazing.
Reply
- Beth Pierce
  July 21, 2023 at 8:41 am
  Thanks, Dawn! So glad that you liked the collard greens!
  Reply
Trista
June 02, 2023 at 7:44 am

This recipe is FANTASTIC! Everyone knows Collard Greens can be delicious if done right and disgusting if done wrong! You won’t be disappointed with this. My husband did have to add a little more salt to his but the 2 of us at the entire pot in one sitting! You won’t be disapponted!
Reply
- Beth Pierce
  June 02, 2023 at 9:51 am
  Thanks, Trista! So glad that you liked the collard greens!
  Reply
  See Also
  Spicy Peanut Butter Noodles
Kathryn
January 02, 2023 at 6:26 pm

I’ve made collard greens before, but they were never great. This recipe was excellent! I’m definitely keeping it for the future!
Reply
- Beth Pierce
  January 04, 2023 at 1:29 pm
  So glad that you like them, Kathryn!
  Reply
Rebecca
January 02, 2023 at 10:39 am

11/10
Reply
- Beth Pierce
  January 04, 2023 at 1:23 pm
  Thanks, Rebecca! So glad that you like the collard greens!
  Reply
Barbara
September 02, 2022 at 3:36 pm

I made this recipe for Collard Greens and it was fantastic! I’ll definitely be making them again very soon! Thank you for your recipe!
Reply
- Beth Pierce
  September 05, 2022 at 5:45 pm
  Thanks Barbara! So glad that you enjoyed them!!
  Reply
Yeah Lifestyle
August 03, 2022 at 8:28 am

Collard Greens by itself can be a boring veg but I love how you have turned this veg into a star with all the other ingredients. Can’t wait to try making your recipe
Reply
Lavanda Michelle
August 02, 2022 at 11:29 am

I love these collard greens, I made these for the family and they loved them. I added a little extra bacon and it was so yummy! Thanks for sharing!
Reply
Rhian Westbury
August 02, 2022 at 11:15 am
I’m not usually a big greens fan but with bacon, garlic and onion that may be a way to convince me to eat it haha. We’re creatures of habit when it comes to our veggies
Reply
Tammy
August 02, 2022 at 10:40 am
As the old saying goes, everything is a little better with bacon 😉 This looks like such a yummy side and perfect all year round.
Reply
- Beth Pierce
  August 05, 2022 at 7:50 am
  So true everything is better with bacon.
  Reply
Glass Mosaic Tiles
August 02, 2022 at 10:29 am
I had no idea Collard is that healthy…I can’t wait to cook your recipe, it is very easy to follow. Thank you so much.
Reply
Melanie E
August 02, 2022 at 9:50 am

I used to eat loads of greens but somehow fell out of the habit. That sounds like such a lovely tasty recipe. I will be getting some greens in to try it.
Reply
Jasmine Hewitt
August 02, 2022 at 8:48 am

I’m insanely particular about my greens. I’m from Georgia, so this recipe looks legit!
Reply
Samantha Donnelly
August 02, 2022 at 3:20 am

I find veg dishes so boring as I always do the same things with them, this does sound amazing and something totally different to what I usually make
Reply
briannemanzb
August 02, 2022 at 1:18 am

This is a real treat, a true Southerner’s dream! I serve this with cornbread or corn muffins and hot sauce for a true down-home meal. Thank you for your recipe
Reply
Stephanie
August 01, 2022 at 8:36 pm
You know, I’ve lived in the South my entire life and never eaten collared greens before. I’m going to add this to my menu next week just so I can say I’ve tried them!
Reply
Tayler
July 22, 2022 at 3:20 pm

I’ve made these collard green several times and they always turn out delicious! Thanks so much for sharing!
Reply
- Beth Pierce
  July 24, 2022 at 8:55 am
  My pleasure Tayler! Happy that you like them!
  Reply
Amy Nash
July 22, 2022 at 12:21 pm

So, so good. We love collard greens and I like that this version uses bacon because I don’t always have a ham hock on hand.
Reply
Mirlene
July 22, 2022 at 11:48 am

These collard greens takes me back to my younger days. I love the bacon cause it makes it so delicious!
Reply
- Beth Pierce
  July 23, 2022 at 7:19 am
  So true!
  Reply
Nathan
July 22, 2022 at 11:23 am

These collard greens are so tasty, and that bacon is such an essential addition! I’ll definitely be making this one again soon.
Reply
- Beth Pierce
  July 23, 2022 at 7:20 am
  Thanks Nathan! So happy that you like them!
  Reply
Patricia
July 22, 2022 at 11:15 am

I just want to dig into this bowl! My husband and I love collard greens and I can’t wait to get my hands on some to try your recipe! I need to plan and freeze some this year to have on hand anytime!
Reply
- Beth Pierce
  July 23, 2022 at 7:20 am
  Thanks! Enjoy!
  Reply
Naomi Wright
December 25, 2021 at 10:10 am

Oh my goodness! This green recipe is so good! I normally don’t put onions and garlic in my greens but I do put them in fried cabbage. I used bacon grease and vegetable oil to fry everything. I always add a little extra but this recipe is definitely a keeper. Thanks so much!
Reply
- Beth Pierce
  December 26, 2021 at 8:21 am
  Thanks Naomi! So glad that you like the greens. So yummy!
  Reply
Amanda Dixon
August 15, 2021 at 5:53 pm

I just love Southern comfort food, and these collard greens delivered! The bacon just adds the best flavor, and they go well as a side dish with so many recipes. Will definitely be our new go-to recipe for collard greens!
Reply
Beth Sachs
August 15, 2021 at 4:42 pm

Love the addition of the bacon in this collard greens recipe. Such a great combination.
Reply
Biana
August 15, 2021 at 4:39 pm

These greens looks so delicious! I like all the spices that you added to them.
Reply
Sara Welch
August 15, 2021 at 4:02 pm

Hadn’t tried this southern staple until now and am sad that I have been missing out! This was so flavorful and easy too; my whole family loved it!
Reply
Tara
August 15, 2021 at 2:20 pm

Oh yum! I can see why these collard greens are a favorite. They sound absolutely incredible with all those spices and the bacon. Such a perfect comfort food.
Reply
Julia
May 10, 2021 at 4:07 am

I am always on a look out for new veg recipes and this one didn’t disappoint. Full of flavour and the picky eaters loved it because of bacon! 🙂
Reply
Anna
May 09, 2021 at 11:54 pm

Loving this classic dish! It’s absolutely delicious!
Reply
Lisalia
May 08, 2021 at 9:56 pm

I love all kinds of greens and this was a new kind for me. I see them in the grocery store all the time, but this was the first time cooking it! So good and delicious. Excited to have it again.
Reply
Katherine
March 17, 2021 at 7:38 am

Such a tasty way to enjoy greens! Awesome side dish.
Reply
Claudia Lamascolo
March 17, 2021 at 7:37 am

Can you believe Ive lived in the South for 28 years and never had these! Now I have no excuse, going out to buy some these look fantastic!
Reply
Dannii
March 17, 2021 at 5:01 am

Everything is better with bacon! This looks like a delicious side dish and a great way to eat more green veg.
Reply
Michelle
March 17, 2021 at 4:53 am
These collard greens are delicious! So easy to make and a really great side dish. The whole family loved this!
Reply
Jo
March 17, 2021 at 12:55 am

This side dish was a hit all around the dinner table last night! a great mix of textures and flavors, everyone in the family loved it!
Reply
Jessie
March 17, 2021 at 12:16 am

I have been needing a good recipe for greens I will be trying these for Easter.
Reply
Sandra
February 17, 2021 at 10:38 pm

This is so good! Everyone at my house loved it!
Reply
Suzy
February 14, 2021 at 5:20 pm

We can not get enough of these greens! They are so flavorful! Definitely making them again!
Reply
Catalina
February 12, 2021 at 4:36 pm

You just gave me an awesome and delicious side dish idea! I am sure my family will love it!
Reply
Jill
February 12, 2021 at 4:25 pm

I had greens cooked by a friend like this for the first time on New Year’s Day this year! Can’t believe I hadn’t tried them before because they are so delicious. Thanks for the recipe!
Reply
Aparna
February 12, 2021 at 4:21 pm
The recipe presentation is so clean and clutter-free, loved it!
Reply
Jess
February 12, 2021 at 4:13 pm

The bacon pieces in this are delish. Perfect combo with the collard greens.
Reply
Mary
February 12, 2021 at 4:05 pm

I love collard greens! The bacon sure makes them go down easy!
Reply
Beth
February 12, 2021 at 3:04 pm

I’ve never had collard greens but have been trying to add more leafy greens and thought, well, with bacon, maybe I could my guys to eat them! Score! The whole batch is gone! Delish!
Reply
Toni
February 12, 2021 at 1:20 pm

I love how tasty and flavorful this is! Even my kids loved it!
Reply
Erin | Dinners,Dishes and Dessert
February 11, 2021 at 8:09 pm

These Southern Collard Greens are sound delicious! Dangerously good…
Reply
Jen
February 11, 2021 at 7:38 pm

First time trying these and I feel like I’ve been missing out for so long now. So delicious!
Reply
Amanda
February 11, 2021 at 6:05 pm

These are hands down the best collard greens I have ever had!
Reply
Cory
February 11, 2021 at 3:47 pm

Southern style collard greens are one of my favorites. As far as I’m concerned, it can be the main course.
The leftover potlikker is gold and excellent in soups or mixed into corn dodgers.
Reply
- Beth Pierce
  February 11, 2021 at 5:27 pm
  Thanks for the tips Cory!
  Reply