Crispy green beans paired with smoky bacon – what’s not to love? These two ingredients were made for each other, and when combined, create a match made in heaven. Whether you’re a fan of classic comfort food or adventurous eating, there’s a recipe on this list that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
From creamy garlic butter sauces to spicy kick-starters, we’ve got 18 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the perfect union of green beans and bacon. And the best part? Each dish is surprisingly easy to make, even for those who are new to cooking.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into a world of crispy, crunchy, smoky, and savory delights that will leave you wanting more. So go ahead, grab some green beans and get ready to get your bacon on!
Garlic Butter Green Beans with Crispy Bacon
Elevate your green bean game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter and crispy bacon. Perfect as a side dish or added to salads, wraps, or sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 6 tablespoons (84g) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add green beans to the bowl and toss until coated with butter mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange green beans in a single layer.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. While green beans are cooking, cook bacon in a pan over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
7. Remove green beans from oven and sprinkle with crumbled bacon. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Green Bean Bundles
A delicious twist on traditional green beans, these bundles are wrapped in crispy bacon and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut into thirds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a large skillet, cook the green beans in olive oil until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, wrap each green bean bundle with a piece of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
5. Place the bundles on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Southern-Style Green Beans with Bacon and Onions
Get ready for a flavorful and comforting side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This Southern-style green beans recipe combines crispy bacon, sweet onions, and tender green beans in a rich and savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the green beans to the skillet and cook until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Stir in the cooked bacon, butter, and any accumulated juices from the skillet.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the green beans are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green Bean Casserole with Bacon and Crispy Onions
This casserole combines the comforting flavors of green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy onions with the smoky richness of bacon. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup crispy fried onions (see note)
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
– 1 1/2 cups French-fried potato chips, crushed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook green beans in boiling water until tender, about 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked green beans, crumbled bacon, and crispy onions.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup and milk. Pour over the green bean mixture; stir to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with crushed potato chips.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Note: To make crispy fried onions, toss thinly sliced onions with 1/4 cup flour and fry in hot oil until golden, about 3-4 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
Spicy Green Beans with Bacon and Chili Flakes
A flavorful twist on a classic green bean recipe, this dish combines the natural sweetness of green beans with the smoky richness of bacon and a kick of heat from chili flakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss green beans with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. While the green beans are roasting, cook diced bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
6. Remove the green beans from the oven and toss with cooked bacon, chili flakes, and remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Season to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maple Glazed Green Beans with Bacon
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of green beans with the smoky richness of bacon, all tied together with a sticky maple glaze. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place green beans on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and olive oil.
6. Pour the glaze over the green beans and toss to coat.
7. Add cooked bacon pieces on top of the green beans.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until green beans are tender.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Green Beans Almondine with Crumbled Bacon
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of green beans with the savory richness of crumbled bacon, all tied together with a hint of toasted almonds. It’s a simple yet impressive side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the green beans on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Sprinkle crumbled bacon pieces over the green beans.
5. Dot the top of the green beans with butter, then sprinkle sliced almonds evenly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until green beans are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Bacon Green Bean Bake
A creamy, savory twist on traditional green beans, this recipe combines the best of bacon, cheese, and green beans for a satisfying side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/4 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine green beans, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheese.
3. In a separate bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.
4. Pour the soup mixture over the green bean mixture and toss until well coated.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bacon and Green Bean Stir-Fry
A quick and flavorful stir-fry that combines the smoky sweetness of bacon with the crunch of green beans.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until crispy, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the cooked bacon from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels.
3. In the same skillet, add the green beans, garlic, and vegetable oil. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until the green beans are tender-crisp.
4. Add the cooked bacon back into the skillet and stir to combine with the green beans.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Green Beans with Bacon and Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your green beans game with this simple yet flavorful recipe, where crispy bacon and tangy balsamic glaze come together to create a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss green beans with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Meanwhile, cook chopped bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
6. Remove green beans from the oven and toss with cooked bacon and balsamic glaze.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional chopped bacon if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Slow-Cooked Green Beans with Bacon and Potatoes
Slow-Cooked Green Beans with Bacon and Potatoes: A hearty and comforting side dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines the sweetness of green beans, the smokiness of bacon, and the creaminess of potatoes all in one delicious pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add olive oil, onion, and garlic to the same skillet. Cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add green beans, potatoes, cooked bacon, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Green Beans with Bacon and Caramelized Shallots
This side dish is a perfect combination of textures and flavors, featuring tender green beans, crispy bacon, and caramelized shallots. It’s an easy and impressive addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large shallots, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss green beans with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 10-12 minutes or until tender.
4. Meanwhile, cook bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from pan and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add sliced shallots and cook for 15-18 minutes or until caramelized.
6. Toss cooked green beans with caramelized shallots and crispy bacon.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green Bean Salad with Bacon and Feta
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of green beans, the smokiness of bacon, and the tanginess of feta for a perfect side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the green beans for 5 minutes, or until they’re tender but still crisp.
2. Drain the green beans and immediately submerge them in an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice. Add the cooled green beans, crumbled bacon, and feta cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Green Beans with Bacon and Garlic Aioli
Elevate your green beans game with the smoky goodness of bacon and the creamy richness of garlic aioli. This simple yet impressive side dish is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper; spread evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast green beans for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. While green beans are roasting, cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
6. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, mayonnaise, and lemon juice.
7. Toss roasted green beans with cooked bacon and garlic aioli; season to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green Beans with Bacon and Toasted Pecans
This classic combination of green beans, crispy bacon, and toasted pecans is a simple yet impressive side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Lay the green beans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. While the green beans are roasting, cook the bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
7. Remove the green beans from the oven and top with toasted pecans and crumbled bacon.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Beans with Bacon and Honey Mustard Dressing
Elevate your green beans game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines crispy bacon, tangy honey mustard dressing, and a hint of sweetness. Perfect as a side dish or added to a charcuterie board.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons honey mustard dressing
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the green beans in a single layer.
3. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the honey mustard dressing. Stir to combine with any remaining bacon fat (yum!).
5. Pour the honey mustard mixture over the green beans on the baking sheet.
6. Sprinkle cooked bacon pieces evenly over the green beans.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until green beans are tender-crisp.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Green Beans with Bacon and Parmesan Crisps
Elevate your side dish game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the sweetness of green beans, the smokiness of bacon, and the nutty flavor of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
4. Meanwhile, cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. Once green beans are done, add Parmesan cheese to the baking sheet and toss with the roasted green beans.
6. Sprinkle cooked bacon on top and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Beans with Bacon and Roasted Garlic
Elevate your green bean game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of roasted garlic with the crunch of crispy bacon. This side dish is perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss green beans with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread green beans on a baking sheet and roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
4. Meanwhile, wrap bacon pieces in foil and bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy.
5. In a small bowl, mix roasted garlic cloves with remaining tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt.
6. Combine cooked green beans and roasted garlic mixture. Top with crispy bacon pieces.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your green bean game with these 18 crispy recipes featuring smoky bacon! From classic pairings like garlic butter and crispy bacon, to innovative twists like spicy green beans with chili flakes and maple glazed green beans with crumbled bacon, there’s something for every taste. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting casserole or a quick stir-fry, these mouthwatering recipes are sure to become new favorites.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
