sauteed green beans with bacon recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
sauteed green beans with bacon recipe
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best sauteed green beans with bacon recipe

I love this sautéed green beans with bacon recipe because it’s a simple yet delicious way to get my family to eat their veggies. The combination of tender green beans, crispy bacon, and a hint of garlic is a winner in our household.

I’ve been making this recipe for years, and it’s perfect for any occasion – whether we’re having a quick weeknight dinner or a special holiday meal. Plus, it’s so easy to make that even my kids can help out in the kitchen.

As a busy mom, I appreciate how quickly this dish comes together and how healthy it is for us. The key to this recipe is using high-quality ingredients and not overcooking the green beans.

I like to use fresh green beans from our local farmer’s market, and the smoky flavor of the bacon adds depth to the dish. My family loves when I serve this recipe alongside grilled meats or as a side dish for pasta night.

It’s also a great way to get some extra veggies into your diet without feeling like you’re missing out on flavor or texture.

Sauteed Green Beans with Bacon

Sauteed Green Beans with Bacon

4.9 from 609 votes

Crisp-tender green beans are sauteed with crispy bacon and a touch of garlic for a savory, satisfying side dish. This quick recipe transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful accompaniment for any meal.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 220 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Green Beans

1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
4 slices bacon, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add the trimmed green beans and cook for 3 minutes until they turn bright green and are slightly tender.
3Drain the beans and immediately plunge them into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking, then drain again and set aside.
4Place the chopped bacon in a large cold skillet and set over medium heat.
5Cook the bacon for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the fat renders and the bacon becomes crispy and golden brown.
6Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
7Add the minced garlic to the hot bacon fat in the skillet and saute over medium heat for about 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
8Increase the heat to medium-high and add the blanched green beans, salt, and pepper, tossing to coat evenly in the garlic and fat.
9Saute the green beans for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are heated through and begin to develop slight char marks.
10Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and toss everything together for another minute until well combined.
11Serve immediately while hot.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring spoons
Tongs or spatula
Paper towels

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 220 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 20mg🧂Sodium: 480mg🌾Total Carbs: 12g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 10g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, you can use turkey bacon and reduce the bacon fat to 1 tablespoon. To save time, look for pre-trimmed green beans in the produce section.

Watch Video Of How Sauteed Green Beans with Bacon Works

This sautéed green beans with bacon recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether we’re having a quick weeknight dinner or a special holiday meal. It’s easy to make ahead of time and reheat later, making it perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.

To store leftovers, simply refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil and toss with some minced garlic for extra flavor.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Sauteed Green Beans with Bacon

Q1: What type of bacon should I use for this recipe?

For this recipe, you want to use a thick-cut, smoked bacon that will hold up well to the high heat of sautéing.

Q2: Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?

Frozen green beans will work in a pinch, but they won’t have the same texture as fresh green beans. If you do use frozen, just thaw them first and pat dry with paper towels before using.

Q3: How do I prevent the green beans from becoming too mushy?

The key is to cook them quickly over high heat so they retain their crunch. If you’re worried about mushiness, try adding the green beans towards the end of cooking time so they can still retain some texture.

Q4: Can I make this recipe in advance?

While you can prep the ingredients ahead of time, it’s best to cook the green beans and bacon just before serving. This ensures they stay crisp and flavorful.

Q5: Are there any variations on this recipe I can try?

Yes! Feel free to add other aromatics like onions or shallots to the pan with the garlic for added depth of flavor. You can also swap out regular bacon for peppered or applewood-smoked bacon for a different twist.

Similar Posts