why make this recipe

Crack Green Beans are a delicious and unique twist on a classic side dish. They bring together the fresh flavor of green beans with the savory taste of bacon and a touch of sweetness from brown sugar. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, holidays, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests without a lot of fuss. The combination of ingredients creates a delightful glaze that keeps everyone coming back for more!

how to make Crack Green Beans

Ingredients:

1½ pounds fresh green beans, trimmed (or thawed frozen green beans)
6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions:

Wash and trim the green beans. If you’re using frozen beans, pat them dry after thawing.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside.
Leave about 1–2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pan. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds until it’s fragrant.
Toss in the green beans and sauté for 6–8 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp.
Add the butter, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Stir everything until it melts into a glaze that coats the beans nicely.
Return the bacon to the skillet, toss everything together, and cook for another 2 minutes.
Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
Serve warm and enjoy!

how to serve Crack Green Beans

These Crack Green Beans are best served warm as a side dish to accompany your favorite main meals. They pair well with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even as a hearty addition to a holiday spread. For a simple presentation, serve them on a large platter or individual plates to showcase their vibrant color and delicious glaze.

how to store Crack Green Beans

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, or you can microwave them for a quick snack.

tips to make Crack Green Beans

For extra flavor, consider using garlic powder in addition to fresh garlic.
If you like your beans a little crispy, reduce the cooking time slightly.
Use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option but adjust salt accordingly as bacon can add saltiness.

variation

Feel free to customize this dish! You can add sliced almonds or walnuts for some crunch, or even throw in a splash of balsamic vinegar for an extra zing. If you’d like to make it vegetarian, replace the bacon with a plant-based alternative and use olive oil instead of butter.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen green beans for this recipe?
Yes, you can use thawed frozen green beans. Just make sure to pat them dry before cooking for the best results.

2. Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Although it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the green beans and glaze in advance and then reheat them before serving.

3. Can I make this dish healthier?
You can reduce the amount of bacon, use olive oil instead of butter, and decrease the brown sugar to make it a bit lighter. Switching to lower-sodium soy sauce can also help!