Imagine a side dish so irresistible that it makes even vegetable-skeptics ask for seconds! These Green Beans and Bacon are not just another boring vegetable recipe, but a mouthwatering symphony of crisp green beans sizzled in smoky bacon grease and topped with crunchy bacon bits. In just 30 minutes, you'll transform ordinary green beans into a restaurant-worthy side that will have your family and guests begging for the recipe.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans
- 6 slices bacon
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the fresh green beans thoroughly under cold running water. Trim off the tough ends of the beans and cut them into approximately 2-inch pieces.
- Place a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully lay out the bacon slices and cook until they become crisp and golden brown, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the bacon from the skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble or chop the bacon into small pieces.
- Keep the bacon grease in the skillet and increase the heat to medium-high. Add the prepared green beans to the same skillet.
- Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the green beans. Stir and toss the beans to coat them evenly with the seasoning and bacon grease.
- Sauté the green beans for 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become tender-crisp and develop a slight char around the edges.
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the cooked green beans and give a final toss to distribute the bacon pieces evenly.
- Transfer the green beans and bacon to a serving dish and serve hot as a delicious side dish.
Tips
- Choose fresh, firm green beans for the best texture and flavor.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet - this ensures proper caramelization and prevents steaming.
- Use thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor and crispiness.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of balsamic vinegar or sprinkle some toasted almonds before serving.
- Cook bacon low and slow to render out more fat and achieve perfect crispiness.
- Pat green beans dry before cooking to help them get a nice char and prevent excess moisture.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, but the bacon grease already adds significant flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
