If you’re looking for a side dish that’s bursting with flavor, these Smothered Green Beans are the answer! This recipe takes simple canned green beans and transforms them into a savory, sweet, and smoky masterpiece. With crispy bacon, a rich glaze made from brown sugar, butter, and soy sauce, and a hint of garlic, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or even a cozy weeknight dinner. Let’s dive into the recipe and make this delicious dish step by step!
Ingredients
5 cans (14.5 oz each) green beans, drained 🥫
1 pound bacon 🥓
1/2 cup brown sugar 🍚
1/4 cup melted butter 🧈
1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce 🥄
1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder 🧄
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake the green beans.
Step 2: Prepare the Green Beans
Open the 5 cans of green beans and drain them thoroughly. You can use a colander to make this step easier.
Pour the drained green beans into an ungreased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread them out evenly to create a solid base for the other ingredients.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet, cook the 1 pound of bacon over medium heat. Cook it until it’s almost fully cooked but not too crispy. This ensures the bacon stays tender and flavorful when baked.
Once the bacon is cooked, remove it from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain the excess grease.
Let the bacon cool for a few minutes, then chop it into bite-sized pieces.
Sprinkle the chopped bacon evenly over the green beans in the baking dish. The bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet glaze.
Step 4: Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of melted butter, 1/4 cup of low-sodium soy sauce, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of garlic powder.
Mix until the ingredients are fully combined and the glaze is smooth. The brown sugar adds sweetness, the butter adds richness, the soy sauce adds depth, and the garlic powder adds a subtle kick of flavor.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Pour the glaze evenly over the green beans and bacon in the baking dish. Make sure to coat everything well so that every bite is packed with flavor.
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 40 minutes. The green beans will become tender, and the glaze will thicken and become bubbly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the green beans are done baking, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and makes the dish easier to serve.
Serve the smothered green beans warm as a side dish. They pair perfectly with roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or even a simple grilled chicken.
Tips and Variations
- Add Onions for Extra Flavor: Sauté 1/2 cup of diced onions with the bacon for an extra layer of flavor. The onions will caramelize and add a sweet, savory note to the dish.
- Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze. This will give the dish a subtle kick that balances the sweetness.
- Use Fresh Green Beans: If you prefer fresh green beans over canned, you can easily substitute them. Simply blanch the fresh green beans in boiling water for 3-4 minutes before adding them to the baking dish.
- Add Nuts for Crunch: For added texture, sprinkle toasted almonds or pecans over the top before serving. The nuts add a delightful crunch that contrasts with the tender green beans.
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare this dish ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed.
- Double the Recipe: If you’re feeding a crowd, double the recipe and use a larger baking dish. This dish is so delicious that it’s always a hit at potlucks and family gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Sweet, Savory, and Smoky Flavors: The combination of brown sugar, soy sauce, and bacon creates a flavor profile that’s both sweet and savory, with a hint of smokiness from the bacon.
✅ Easy to Make: This recipe uses simple ingredients and requires minimal prep work. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute holiday side dishes.
✅ Versatile: These smothered green beans pair well with a variety of main dishes, from roasted turkey to grilled steak.
✅ Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or a holiday feast, this dish is sure to impress your guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can! Simply blanch the fresh green beans in boiling water for 3-4 minutes before adding them to the baking dish. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. When you’re ready to serve, just bake it as directed. - Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon works well in this recipe if you’re looking for a lighter option. - How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Baking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 50 minutes
Servings: 8-10
These Smothered Green Beans are a flavorful and comforting side dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving them for a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, they’re guaranteed to impress. The combination of tender green beans, crispy bacon, and a sweet and savory glaze makes this dish irresistible. Enjoy! 🥓🥬😋