Bacon-Garlic Green Beans

If you’re searching for a side dish that’s equal parts savory, crisp, and unforgettable, these garlic green beans with bacon deliver big flavor with minimal effort. A quick sauté enhances their natural sweetness, while smoky bacon and golden garlic take things to the next level. Perfect alongside roast chicken, steak, or holiday mains, this crowd-pleasing recipe turns simple ingredients into something truly irresistible.

Origin Bacon-Garlic Green Beans

This classic American side dish is a staple in Southern kitchens and holiday tables across the country. It’s simple comfort food that never goes out of style.

What I Love About This Recipe

It comes together in about 15 minutes with just a few ingredients. The bacon adds a rich depth, and the garlic keeps everything bright and savory.

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Bacon-Garlic Green Beans

Recipe by RecipeWikkiCourse: Side DishCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Bacon-Garlic Green Beans are a savory and flavorful side dish that brings together crisp green beans, smoky bacon, and fragrant garlic. The green beans are typically blanched or sautéed until tender-crisp, then tossed with crispy bacon bits and sautéed garlic for a delicious finish. This dish adds a rich, umami-packed element to any meal, especially during the holidays or family dinners. It’s quick to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed

• 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Optional: a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes

Directions

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add green beans and cook 3–4 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender.
• Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
• In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crisp, about 5–6 minutes.
• Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of drippings in the pan.
• Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Add green beans and cook 2–3 minutes, stirring to heat through and coat with the bacon drippings.
• Season with salt and pepper.
• Sprinkle cooked bacon over the top before serving.
• Optional: finish with a squeeze of lemon juice or red pepper flakes.

Notes

• You can blanch the green beans up to a day ahead and finish them quickly before serving.
• For extra richness, add a small pat of butter with the garlic.
• Turkey bacon works too if you’d like a lighter option.