This recipe combines the goodness of green beans with the irresistible flavors of crispy bacon and a sweet brown sugar glaze. It’s a delightful side dish that enhances any meal with its savory and sweet profile, making it perfect for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or a simple weeknight dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll fall in love with this dish because it’s the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Crispy bacon brings a savory crunch, while the brown sugar glaze gives a sweet twist that tantalizes the taste buds. Not only is this recipe easy and quick to prepare, but it also incorporates canned green beans, making it a convenient option for busy cooks. Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Introduction
If you’re looking for a side dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious, look no further than Crack Green Beans with Crispy Bacon. In a world where vegetables often take a back seat, this recipe elevates green beans to star status on your dinner table. The combination of fresh, crisp green beans, savory bacon, and a sweet glaze will make these beans a family favorite. This dish is perfect for potlucks, barbecues, and holiday feasts, seamlessly fitting into any meal. You can prepare it ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven for a quick, hassle-free serving option. Let’s dive into the details of this phenomenal recipe!
Ingredients:
- 5 cans (8 ounces each) green beans, drained
- 12 slices of bacon, chopped, cooked until crisp, and drained
- 2/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 7 teaspoons soy sauce
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows the beans to bake evenly and develop a lovely texture alongside the sweet and savory glaze.
Step 2: In a 9×13-inch baking pan, place the drained green beans. Ensure they’re evenly spread to allow for even cooking.
Step 3: Add the cooked and crumbled bacon pieces over the green beans. The crispy bacon will infuse the beans with its savory flavor as they bake together.
Step 4: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, melted butter, soy sauce, and garlic powder. Stir well until everything is mingled into a smooth mixture, ensuring that the brown sugar is fully dissolved.
Step 5: Pour the preparation over the green beans and bacon in the baking dish. Mix gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes until bubbly and generously coated in the glaze.
CUISSON Note: Keep an eye on the dish towards the end of the baking time to prevent the bacon from over-crisping or the glaze from burning. A perfect golden-brown color indicates it’s ready to come out.
Suggestions for Presentation:
To serve your Crack Green Beans, transfer them to a beautiful serving dish. You can garnish with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a light drizzle of balsamic glaze for added color and flavor. The sweet aroma wafting from the dish will already entice your guests, but a lovely presentation will make it even more appealing.
Tips:
- For a twist, add some sautéed onions or bell peppers for more flavor and texture.
- If you want to make this recipe even faster, you can use frozen green beans. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before baking.
- Consider using turkey bacon for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.
Time Estimates:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
- Protein: 12 grams
- Sodium: 550 milligrams
Conclusion
Crack Green Beans with Crispy Bacon and a Delicious Brown Sugar Glaze is a game-changer when it comes to side dishes. This recipe brings together the best of both worlds: a nutritious vegetable base enhanced with the rich flavors of bacon and a sweet glaze. Whether you’re serving it on a special occasion or making it for a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to impress. Treat your taste buds to this simple yet divine recipe – it’s a dish that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen.
Questions and Answers about this Recipe
- Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
- Yes, fresh green beans can be used. Just blanch them for 5 minutes before using them in the recipe to ensure they cook evenly in the oven.
- How can I store leftovers?
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe?
- You can substitute the bacon with a plant-based bacon alternative or omit it altogether. You might also consider adding some toasted nuts for a savory crunch.
- How do I know when the dish is done baking?
- The dish is ready when the glaze is bubbly and has thickened slightly. The green beans should be tender but not mushy.
- Can this dish be prepared in advance?
- Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
