Garlic Green Beans
Quick and easy garlic green beans are a perfect side dish, but you might snack it up before it reaches the table.
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This might just be the easiest green bean recipe there ever was. With only five ingredients, two steps and twenty minutes, you have the perfect side dish for just about any dinner recipe you are making.
We especially love serving this recipe with Meatloaf or Ranch Oven Baked Pork Chops, but honestly it really just goes well with anything!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Classic flavor: Garlic and butter highlight the natural sweetness of green beans without overpowering them.
Quick and simple: Ready in about 15 minutes with only four ingredients.
Light but satisfying: Simmered in broth instead of oil for a healthier twist.
Family-friendly: A side dish that kids and adults both enjoy.
Versatile: Works with almost any main course, from roasted meats to vegetarian dishes.
Ingredients to Make Garlic Green Beans:
- green beans. Fresh beans give the best texture and flavor. Trim the ends before cooking. If you only have frozen beans, thaw and pat dry first.
- vegetable broth. Adds depth of flavor while cooking the beans. Low-sodium broth is a good option so you can control the seasoning.
- garlic cloves. Freshly minced garlic works best here. If you love a stronger garlic flavor, add an extra clove.
- butter. Provides richness and helps coat the beans. Use unsalted butter to avoid making the dish too salty, or swap in olive oil for a dairy-free version.
How to Make Garlic Green Beans:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a simmer over medium heat.
- Add the green beans and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still slightly crisp.
- Stir in the minced garlic and butter, cooking for 1–2 minutes until the butter is melted and the beans are well coated.
- Remove from heat and serve warm.
Recipe Notes & Tips:
- Trim evenly: Snapping the ends off by hand is quick, but cutting both ends with a knife gives a more uniform look.
- Cooking time: Start checking the beans around 7 minutes. They should be tender yet crisp; extend cooking if you prefer softer beans.
- Flavor boost: Add the garlic in the last 2 minutes so it softens without burning. Burnt garlic will taste bitter.
- Butter swap: Olive oil or ghee can replace butter for different flavor profiles or dietary needs.
- Make it zesty: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving brightens the dish.
- Extra flavor: Stir in a sprinkle of Parmesan or toasted almonds right before serving for added texture.
- Prep ahead: Wash and trim the beans up to a day in advance and refrigerate in a sealed container until ready to cook.
Serving Suggestions:
- Cauliflower Soup
- Breaded Parmesan Chicken
- Shrimp Foil Packs
- Seafood Stew
- Ranch Oven Baked Pork Chops
How to Store:
Refrigerator: Cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Store for up to 3–4 days.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave in 30-second bursts.
Freezer: Not recommended, as green beans lose their crispness and the butter-garlic sauce can separate.
Make ahead: Trim and wash beans 1 day in advance. Cook just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
FAQs:
Yes, but the texture will be softer. Thaw completely and pat dry before cooking so they don’t water down the broth.
Absolutely, swap the butter for olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
Chicken broth works well and adds extra richness. For a lighter option, you can use water with a pinch of salt.
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Garlic Green Beans
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh green beans
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablspoons butter
Instructions
- In a large skillet or saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a simmer over medium heat.
- Add the green beans and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still slightly crisp.
- Stir in the minced garlic and butter, cooking for 1–2 minutes until the butter is melted and the beans are well coated.
- Remove from heat and serve warm.
Nutrition
Notes
-
- Trim evenly: Snapping the ends off by hand is quick, but cutting both ends with a knife gives a more uniform look.
- Cooking time: Start checking the beans around 7 minutes. They should be tender yet crisp; extend cooking if you prefer softer beans.
- Flavor boost: Add the garlic in the last 2 minutes so it softens without burning. Burnt garlic will taste bitter.
- Butter swap: Olive oil or ghee can replace butter for different flavor profiles or dietary needs.
- Make it zesty: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving brightens the dish.
- Extra flavor: Stir in a sprinkle of Parmesan or toasted almonds right before serving for added texture.
- Prep ahead: Wash and trim the beans up to a day in advance and refrigerate in a sealed container until ready to cook.
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Simple and so good!