Did you know that 24 oz of fresh green beans can be turned into a tasty dish with just a few ingredients? You’ll need 8 slices of bacon and a 1/4 cup of light brown sugar. This recipe combines sweet and savory flavors perfectly.
Looking for an easy green beans recipe with lots of flavor? This is it. It’s quick to prepare, taking only 15 minutes. It’s also great as a side dish for any holiday, from Thanksgiving to Christmas.
Why You Should Try This Crack Green Beans Recipe
Looking for a tasty green beans recipe that’s easy to make? This southern crack green beans dish is perfect. It’s a mix of flavors that will excite your taste buds and is simple to prepare.
This recipe is great for those with busy lives. It only takes 10 minutes to prepare and 55 minutes to cook. The ingredients like bacon, butter, and soy sauce make the green beans tender and flavorful.
To cook, just bake at 350ºF for 40 minutes. You’ll need 5 cans of green beans, 12 slices of bacon, and more. This makes 6 servings, perfect for any meal.
- Quick Preparation: Only 10 minutes of prep time and 55 minutes to cook, making it a time-saver.
- Flavorful Ingredients: Achieves a delightful balance with ingredients like brown sugar and soy sauce.
- Rich Nutritional Profile: Each serving contains 431 kcal, 11g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 25g fat, making it a well-rounded meal option.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 431 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 43g |
| Protein | 11g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Saturated Fat | 11g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3g |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 10g |
| Cholesterol | 49mg |
| Sodium | 1422mg |
| Potassium | 677mg |
| Fiber | 9g |
| Sugar | 27g |
| Vitamin A | 287 IU |
| Vitamin C | 57mg |
| Calcium | 36mg |
| Iron | 15mg |
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this crack green beans recipe will wow everyone. With these ingredients, every bite is a burst of deliciousness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making this tasty Crack Green Beans recipe is easy. You just need a few key ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make your dish full of flavor.
Fresh or Canned Green Beans
For the best taste, use fresh green beans. You’ll need one pound of them. If fresh beans are hard to find, frozen or cut green beans work well too. Make sure they’re fresh and vibrant.
Bacon
Bacon adds a rich flavor to the dish. Choose thick-cut bacon for better texture and taste. You’ll need about four slices, chopped finely. Bacon’s smoky taste makes the dish irresistible.
Butter
Melted butter is key to bringing the flavors together. Use 1 ½ to 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Olive oil is also a great choice, with the same amount.
Sweeteners
Light brown sugar adds a sweet touch. Just a pinch (about ¼ teaspoon) is enough. You can also add a bit of fresh lemon juice for extra zest.
Here’s a quick look at the ingredient amounts:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh Green Beans | 1 pound |
| Bacon | 4 slices, chopped |
| Melted Butter | 1 ½ to 2 tablespoons |
| Light Brown Sugar | ¼ teaspoon |
| Fresh Lemon Juice (optional) | ½ teaspoon |
With these ingredients, your Crack Green Beans will be delicious and perfect for any meal. Enjoy the mix of bacon, butter, and seasoned green beans!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Running short on time? Not sure how to cook green beans to perfection? Here are the step-by-step instructions to ensure your green beans come out delicious every time. Let’s dive into how to make mouth-watering crack green beans in the oven using simple ingredients.
Step One: Prepare the Sauce
Start by preheating your oven to 400ºF (204ºC) to crisp up the bacon. For the sauce, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add 2/3 cup of firmly packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 1 1/2 teaspoons of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is well blended.
Step Two: Mix and Bake
While the sauce simmers, place 5 cans of drained green beans (or fresh if using 24 ounces) in a large mixing bowl. Pour the prepared sauce over the green beans and mix well. This ensures an even coating. Transfer the green beans to a baking dish. Lay 12 slices of bacon over the beans, overlapping if necessary.
Reduce the oven temperature to 350ºF (177ºC) and bake the green beans for 40 minutes. This will crisp the bacon and tenderize the beans. The baking will also caramelize the sauce, creating a rich and savory dish.
Step Three: Serve
After baking, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve the green beans hot, paired with your favorite main dishes. Each serving of this delicious crack green beans recipe contains about 431 kcal, making it a satisfying side for any meal.
| Nutritional Information | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 431 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 43 g |
| Protein | 11 g |
| Total Fat | 25 g |
| Saturated Fat | 11 g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3 g |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 10 g |
| Cholesterol | 49 mg |
| Sodium | 1422 mg |
| Potassium | 677 mg |
| Fiber | 9 g |
| Sugar | 27 g |
| Vitamin A | 287 IU |
| Vitamin C | 57 mg |
| Calcium | 36 mg |
| Iron | 15 mg |
Tips for Perfect Crack Green Beans
To get crispy green beans, pay close attention to detail. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a holiday feast, these tips will make your dish a hit. Here’s how to achieve the perfect crunch and flavor.
Coating Evenly
It’s important to coat the beans evenly with sauce. Use a large bowl to toss the green beans with the sauce. This ensures every bean gets a good coat. Mix gently but thoroughly to cover all beans.
Broiling for Crispiness
Broiling can make your green beans even crisper. After baking at 375°F for 20 minutes, switch to broil for a few minutes. This adds a nice texture. Just watch them closely to avoid burning.
Watch for the right moment to stop broiling, usually 2-3 minutes. This step enhances the dish’s flavors and textures.
Leftover Sauce
Don’t waste leftover sauce. It’s full of flavor and can be used in many ways. Mix it into rice or potatoes, or use it to marinate chicken or pork. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Plan for about 1 hour to prepare and cook the perfect crunchy green beans recipe. Paying close attention to cooking time and steps will make your side dish a hit.
| Nutritional Information | Per Serving (0.75 cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 399 kcal |
| Total Fat | 24 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10 g |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 9 g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3 g |
| Trans Fat | 0.3 g |
| Cholesterol | 44 mg |
| Sodium | 1086 mg |
| Potassium | 519 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 41 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5 g |
| Total Sugars | 32 g |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Vitamin A | 1389 IU |
| Vitamin C | 22 mg |
| Calcium | 87 mg |
| Iron | 3 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Looking for ways to make your green beans side dish stand out? Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, we’ve got you covered. Here are some tasty ideas to enhance your green beans.
Perfect Pairings
Green beans are super versatile and go well with many dishes. Here are some top picks:
- Roast chicken – The savory chicken flavors match the green beans’ slight sweetness.
- Grilled salmon – Salmon’s healthy fats pair well with green beans’ crisp texture.
- Mashed potatoes – Green beans add a nice crunch to creamy mashed potatoes.
- Pasta dishes – Green beans add freshness to rich pasta sauces.
Holiday Favorites
Make green beans a holiday highlight with these festive ideas:
- Thanksgiving turkey – Add garlic and lemon zest to green beans for a fresh twist.
- Christmas ham – Top a green beans casserole with crispy onions for a salty contrast.
- Holiday potluck – Wow guests with green beans almondine, topped with almonds and cranberries.
- New Year’s Eve – Try a green bean salad with orange zest and balsamic vinegar for a sophisticated touch.
These ideas will make your green beans the star of any meal. Get creative and enjoy making these delicious dishes!
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Planning to make this tasty dish ahead of time? Or want to keep leftovers fresh? Here are some key tips for your make-ahead green beans recipe. Learn the best ways to store cooked green beans and use a slow cooker green beans option. These tips will save you time and effort.
Making Ahead
Prep your green beans a day in advance for a smooth cooking experience. Follow the make-ahead green beans recipe. Partially cook your green beans and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They last up to 1 day.
When you’re ready to serve, reheat them in the oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes. This will make the glaze bubbly.
Slow Cooker Option
Need to save time? Try the slow cooker green beans method. Mix your ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
This method makes tender, flavorful green beans with little effort.
Storing Leftovers
Storing cooked green beans right is key for keeping their taste and texture. Leftovers can stay in an airtight container in the fridge for 4-5 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe container or a zip-top freezer bag for up to 6 months.
When reheating frozen beans, they might need a bit more time to heat through.
These storage and make-ahead tips will help you enjoy your green beans at their best. Whether for a big event or enjoying leftovers all week.
Other Delicious Side Dish Recipes to Try
Looking for something tasty to go with your main dish? Check out these amazing side dish recipes. They’re easy to make and full of flavor, making any meal better.
Green Bean Casserole
The green bean casserole is a classic comfort food. It has fresh green beans in a creamy sauce, with sautéed mushrooms and shallots for extra taste. It’s topped with a crispy onion layer.
Macaroni and Tomatoes
Macaroni and tomatoes is a true comfort food. It’s made with tender macaroni, a savory tomato sauce, and sometimes garlic and onions. It’s a hearty choice that goes great with grilled meats.
Baked Beans with Ground Beef
Baked beans with ground beef is a filling side dish. It adds ground beef to the traditional baked beans, making it more flavorful. Brown sugar, molasses, and smoked paprika give it a rich taste, perfect with barbecue.
Broccoli Salad
For a fresh and lively side, try a broccoli salad. It has crunchy broccoli, crispy bacon, dried cranberries, and sunflower seeds in a tangy dressing. It’s healthy and tasty, great with any main dish.
Here’s a quick look at these delicious side dishes:
| Recipe | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Calories per Serving | Recommended Storage Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Green Bean Casserole | 10 minutes | 20 minutes | 30 minutes | 126 kcal | 4-5 days in the fridge |
| Macaroni and Tomatoes | 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 45 minutes | 210 kcal | 3-5 days in the fridge |
| Baked Beans with Ground Beef | 10 minutes | 25 minutes | 35 minutes | 300 kcal | Up to 4 months in the freezer |
| Broccoli Salad | 20 minutes | 0 minutes | 20 minutes | 200 kcal | 3-5 days in the fridge |
Conclusion
In this article, I shared a tasty recipe for crack green beans. It’s perfect for your kitchen. You’ll need fresh or canned green beans, bacon, butter, and sweeteners. This dish is full of flavor and easy to make.
The recipe is simple to follow. You’ll learn how to make the sauce, mix, and bake. Each step is designed to bring out the best taste. Roast at 425°F for 15-20 minutes to get crispy green beans. You can also add red pepper flakes for extra spice.
I also gave tips for making perfect crack green beans. You’ll find serving ideas, make-ahead tips, and storage options. This recipe is great for holidays and can be made keto or low-carb. It’s loved by many, Its simplicity and taste make it a favorite side dish.
FAQ
What ingredients do I need for the crack green beans recipe?
You’ll need fresh or canned green beans, bacon, melted butter, and light brown sugar. Also, soy sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder are needed.
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen green beans work well. Just thaw and pat them dry before cooking.
How do I prepare the sauce for this recipe?
Mix melted butter, light brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder in a bowl. Stir until well combined.
What is the best way to achieve crispy green beans?
Broil the green beans for a few minutes after baking. This adds a nice crunch.
Can I substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon is a great substitute. It’s healthier and works well in this recipe.
How long should I bake the green beans?
Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes. Then, broil for a few minutes to crisp them up.
What can I pair with crack green beans for a complete meal?
They’re great with grilled chicken, steak, or pork chops. They also go well with mashed potatoes or rice.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge. Reheat in the oven before serving.
How should I store leftover crack green beans?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Can I cook crack green beans in a slow cooker?
Yes, combine all ingredients in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
Do you have other side dish recipes I can try?
Absolutely! Try green bean casserole, macaroni and tomatoes, baked beans with ground beef, or broccoli salad.
Are there any tips for coating the green beans evenly?
Toss the green beans well with the sauce. A large mixing bowl helps ensure even coating.
What should I do with the leftover sauce?
Drizzle it over the green beans or save it for other dishes.
Any suggestions for holiday meal pairings?
Crack green beans are perfect for holidays. Serve with roasted turkey, ham, or prime rib for a festive meal.
Crack Green Beans Recipe
Ingredients
- Fresh Green Beans – 1 pound
- Bacon – 4 slices chopped
- Melted Butter – 1 ½ to 2 tablespoons
- Light Brown Sugar – ¼ teaspoon
- Fresh Lemon Juice optional – ½ teaspoon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400ºF (204ºC) to crisp up the bacon.
- In a small saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 2/3 cup of firmly packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 1 1/2 teaspoons of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is well blended.
- Place 5 cans of drained green beans (or fresh if using 24 ounces) in a large mixing bowl. Pour the prepared sauce over the green beans and mix well. Transfer the green beans to a baking dish. Lay 12 slices of bacon over the beans.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 350ºF (177ºC) and bake the green beans for 40 minutes.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For best results, use fresh green beans, though frozen or canned work as alternatives.
- The recipe can be made in advance and reheated in the oven.
- If you want to get extra crispy green beans, you can broil them for a few minutes after baking.
- Leftover sauce can be used in other dishes like rice or to marinate meats.
