This dish of green beans with bacon brings a tasty twist to your veggies. The crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch and savory flavor that you’ll love!
Whenever I make this, I can’t resist sneaking bites of the bacon while cooking. It’s like the green beans are secretly cheering, “Eat me too!” 🥳
It’s quick and easy to whip up, making it a perfect side for any meal. Plus, the combination of green beans and bacon is just pure joy on a plate!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are best for this dish due to their crispness and vibrant color. If they’re unavailable, you can use frozen green beans, but make sure to thaw them and drain excess water before cooking.
Bacon: Regular bacon gives the best flavor, but you might substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option. Alternatively, a vegan bacon or even smoked paprika can provide a similar smoky taste without the pork.
Garlic: While optional, garlic adds a nice depth to the dish. Feel free to substitute with garlic powder if you don’t have fresh garlic, using about 1/4 teaspoon.
How Do You Get Perfectly Crisp Green Beans?
Achieving tender-crisp green beans is all about timing. Start by not overcooking them. Here’s how you can ensure they’re cooked just right:
- Blanch in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before sautéing to preserve color and crunch.
- Cook in a hot skillet to sear quickly without making them mushy.
- Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to keep them vibrant green.
Pay attention to the color and taste as you go; they should be bright green and still slightly firm!
Green Beans With Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 6 slices bacon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25 minutes in total: around 10 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking. It’s quick and simple, making it a perfect side dish for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Green Beans:
Start by rinsing your fresh green beans under cool water. Trim the ends off to get rid of the tough bits. This will make your green beans ready for cooking!
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet, place the 6 slices of bacon over medium heat. Cook until they become crispy, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, carefully remove the bacon and place it on paper towels to drain excess grease. Remember to keep that yummy bacon fat in the skillet for flavor!
3. Sauté the Green Beans:
Next, add the trimmed green beans to the skillet with the reserved bacon fat. Sauté them, stirring occasionally, for about 6-8 minutes. You want them to be tender but still have a nice crunch, so keep an eye on them!
4. Add Garlic (if using):
If you like garlic, now’s your time to shine! Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until you can smell that delicious garlic aroma.
5. Combine Everything:
Chop the cooked bacon into bite-sized pieces, then return it to the skillet with the green beans. Toss everything together to mix well and let those flavors combine.
6. Season to Taste:
Finally, season your dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Taste a bean or two to see if it’s just right!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer your delicious green beans with bacon into a serving bowl. Enjoy your wonderful side dish either hot or warm!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans! Just be sure to thaw them and drain any excess water before sautéing. Frozen green beans might require a slightly shorter cooking time, so keep an eye on them.
How Can I Make This Dish Healthier?
For a lighter version, try using turkey bacon or a reduced-fat or lower-sodium bacon. You could also consider sautéing the green beans in olive oil instead of bacon fat while still adding a small amount of bacon for flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover green beans with bacon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep them from drying out.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even carrots to the skillet along with the green beans. Just adjust the cooking time according to the vegetables you choose to ensure everything cooks evenly!
