Get ready to transform ordinary green beans into a mouthwatering sensation that will have everyone at your dinner table begging for seconds! These Grilled Bacon Wrapped Green Beans are not just a side dish - they're a culinary experience that combines the crisp freshness of green beans with the irresistible smoky, salty crunch of perfectly grilled bacon. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or looking to elevate your weeknight dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to be a game-changer that turns humble vegetables into a show-stopping crowd-pleaser.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the green beans by washing them thoroughly and trimming off the tough ends. Pat them completely dry using paper towels to ensure crisp cooking.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, targeting around 400-425°F. If using a gas grill, set burners to medium-high. For a charcoal grill, arrange hot coals to create a direct heat zone.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper, ensuring each bean is evenly coated with seasoning.
- Cut bacon slices in half crosswise. Each half slice will be used to wrap a small bundle of green beans.
- Gather 4-5 green beans and wrap a half slice of bacon around the middle, securing with a toothpick if needed. Repeat until all beans are bundled.
- Place bacon-wrapped green bean bundles directly on the preheated grill grates. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, rotating to ensure even cooking and crispy bacon.
- Watch carefully to prevent burning. Bacon should become crisp and golden brown, with green beans tender but still maintaining some crunch.
- Remove from grill and let rest for 2-3 minutes. Remove toothpicks before serving if used.
- Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with additional cracked black pepper if desired. Serve hot as a delicious side dish.
Tips
- Dry Your Beans Thoroughly: Moisture is the enemy of crispy bacon, so make sure to pat your green beans completely dry before seasoning and wrapping.
- Choose the Right Bacon: Use medium-thickness bacon that will crisp up nicely without burning too quickly. Avoid extra-thick bacon which might not cook evenly.
- Toothpick Trick: If you're worried about bacon unwrapping, secure each bundle with a toothpick. Just remember to remove them before serving!
- Watch the Grill Temperature: Medium-high heat (400-425°F) is crucial. Too hot, and you'll burn the bacon; too cool, and it won't crisp properly.
- Rotate Bundles Carefully: Use tongs to gently turn the bundles, ensuring even cooking on all sides without losing the bacon wrap.
- Let Them Rest: Allow the bundles to rest for 2-3 minutes after grilling to let the bacon set and juices redistribute.
- Customize Your Seasonings: Experiment with different herbs and spices like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even a light drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg
