Bacon Wrapped Green Beans are a delicious and visually appealing side dish that combines the crisp freshness of green beans with the rich, smoky flavor of bacon. This simple yet sophisticated dish requires minimal ingredients and can be prepared in less than an hour.
Perfect for dinner parties, family gatherings, or even a special weeknight meal, these bacon-wrapped delights are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. Whether served as a side or a festive appetizer, they bring a flavorful twist to any dining table.
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Why This Recipe Works
The success of this recipe lies in the perfect pairing of its two main components. The green beans remain crisp and tender, providing a fresh contrast to the bacon that wraps around them, which crisps up beautifully in the oven. The natural sweetness of the green beans balances the saltiness of the bacon, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Additionally, the brown sugar and butter glaze adds a subtle sweetness and richness that enhances the smokiness of the bacon, elevating the overall taste of the dish.
Another great aspect of this recipe is its versatility and ease of preparation. It can be prepped ahead of time, making it convenient for busy schedules. You can also customize the seasoning to match the rest of your meal, whether you're aiming for something garlicky, spicy, or herb-infused. Bacon Wrapped Green Beans are not only tasty but also make for a striking presentation, adding a touch of elegance to any meal setting. Their simplicity, combined with their crowd-pleasing flavors, makes them an excellent choice for any cook looking to add a bit of flair to their menu without too much fuss.
Ingredients
Green Beans: Fresh and crisp, they provide a nice snap and are rich in vitamins. Substitute: Asparagus can be a great alternative, offering a similar texture.
Bacon: Adds a smoky, savory flavor that complements the green beans. Substitute: Turkey bacon for a leaner option.
Brown Sugar: Gives a sweet glaze to the bacon. Substitute: Honey or maple syrup for a different kind of sweetness.
Butter: Used for basting, it adds richness and helps the seasoning stick. Substitute: Olive oil for a lighter version.
Garlic Powder: Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of garlic. Substitute: Minced fresh garlic for a more intense flavor.
Tips
- Parboil green beans before wrapping to ensure they are perfectly tender.
- Partially cook bacon before wrapping to achieve crispiness without overcooking the beans.
- Secure the bacon with toothpicks to keep it wrapped around the beans during cooking.
- Place on a wire rack over a baking sheet to allow fat from the bacon to drip away, ensuring even cooking.
- Let rest for a few minutes after baking for the flavors to meld together.
How to Serve
Bacon Wrapped Green Beans are a delightful side that brings a touch of elegance and a lot of flavors to any meal. They are perfect for dressing up a weeknight dinner or for special occasions like holidays and family gatherings.
- Holiday Table: Serve them alongside roasted meats like turkey or ham during holiday meals for a festive touch.
- Barbecue Side: They make a great side dish at barbecues, offering a savory and slightly sweet alternative to traditional sides.
- With Steak: Pair them with a grilled steak and a baked potato for a classic, hearty meal.
Similar Recipes
Instant Pot Green Beans and Potatoes
Bacon Wrapped Green Beans
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans ends trimmed
- 10 slices bacon
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.
- Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add green beans and cook for 3 minutes, then drain and immerse in ice water to stop cooking.
- Partially cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat for about 3 minutes per side, just until it begins to render fat but is still flexible.
- Pat dry the green beans. Combine brown sugar, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Bundle about 5-8 green beans together, wrap them with a slice of bacon, and secure with a toothpick. Repeat with remaining beans and bacon.
- Arrange the bundles on the prepared rack and brush with the brown sugar mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy.
- Serve warm.
Nutrition
Notes
• Partially cook bacon before wrapping to achieve crispiness without overcooking the beans.
• Secure the bacon with toothpicks to keep it wrapped around the beans during cooking.
• Place on a wire rack over a baking sheet to allow fat from the bacon to drip away, ensuring even cooking.
• Let rest for a few minutes after baking for the flavors to meld together.