If you think green beans are boring, you haven’t tried this Easy Whack Green Beans Recipe yet! With smoky bacon, a touch of sweetness, and tender-crisp beans, this dish transforms a simple vegetable into a mouthwatering side that even picky eaters will love.
Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or everyday family dinners, these green beans are quick to prepare and even quicker to disappear. The addition of bacon—or turkey bacon if you prefer—gives the beans an irresistible smoky-salty flavor, while a light glaze brings everything together.
You’ll love how easy it is to customize this recipe, too. Swap bacon for diced ham, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat, or drizzle with balsamic for extra tang. Either way, you’re guaranteed a crowd-pleaser.
Forget boring boiled green beans—this is how green beans were meant to be eaten. Serve them at your next gathering and get ready for everyone to beg for the recipe!
- YOU MAY ALSO LIKE THESE AS WELL:
- Garlic Herb Butter Thanksgiving Turkey
- Mama’s Chicken Roll-Ups | Mouth Watering Rolls
- Slow Cooker Steak Soup
Ingredients:
- 5 (15-oz) cans green beans, drained
- 1 lb bacon
- 2/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1-1/2 tsp garlic powder
INSTRUCTIONS:
1 ) Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2 ) Pour drained green beans in an ungreased 9×13-inch pan.
3 ) In a large skillet, cook bacon until almost done but not too crispy. Remove from skillet, drain on paper towel and chop. Sprinkle cooked bacon on top of green beans.
4 ) Whisk together brown sugar, melted butter, soy sauce, and garlic powder. Pour over green beans.
5 ) Bake uncovered for 40 minutes.
NOTE: you can substitute a similar amount of frozen green beans, about 4 (12-ounce) bags, thawed if you don’t have fresh green beans.
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Calories per serving: Approx. 210 kcal
- Yield: 6 servings
- Some Recommended Products:
- 48 Inch Gas Range 6 Burners Cooktop 6.7 cu.ft Oven
- Professional Series Built-In All-Refrigerator
- Mini Refrigerator, 2-Door 3.4 cu. ft. Small Compact Under-Counter
Pro Tips for Perfect Whack Green Beans:
- Use fresh green beans for the best texture and color.
- Trim the ends before cooking for a cleaner presentation.
- Blanch the beans briefly in boiling water before sautéing to keep them vibrant and tender.
- Use thick-cut bacon for maximum smoky flavor.
- Swap turkey bacon or ham for a lighter option.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight spicy kick.
- Drizzle with a touch of maple syrup or honey for an extra sweet-savory flavor.
- Cook bacon until crisp before tossing with the beans for the best texture.
- Toss green beans in the bacon fat for the ultimate flavor bomb.
- Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an indulgent twist!
FAQs:
Can I use frozen green beans for this recipe?
- Yes, but fresh green beans will have the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, thaw and pat them dry before cooking.
What can I substitute for bacon?
- Try diced turkey bacon, ham, pancetta, or even smoked sausage for different flavors.
How do I keep green beans from getting mushy?
- Blanch them briefly in boiling water, then sauté quickly to preserve their snap and color.
Can I make whack green beans ahead of time?
- Yes! Blanch the beans and cook the bacon ahead of time. Then toss and warm everything together before serving.
What dishes pair well with green beans and bacon?
- They’re perfect alongside roast chicken, pork chops, BBQ ribs, or even Thanksgiving turkey.
- See also:
- Best Microwaves For Your Kitchen
- Best Espresso Machines in 2019
- How To Know What Size Instant Pot To Buy
