Crack Green Beans

Crack Green Beans are a mouthwatering side dish that elevates the humble green bean with a sweet and savory glaze. This dish combines crispy bacon, rich butter, and a touch of sweetness, making it an irresistible addition to any meal.

Ingredients

5 regular cans of green beans, drained (or about 4 12-ounce bags of thawed frozen green beans, or fresh green beans)
12 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup butter, melted
7 teaspoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder

Directions

1. Prepare Beans:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the drained green beans in a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. Add Bacon:
   Sprinkle the cooked and crumbled bacon over the green beans.
3. Make the Sauce:
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, melted butter, soy sauce, and garlic powder.
4. Combine:
   Pour the sauce evenly over the green beans and bacon in the pan.
5. Bake:
   Bake for 40 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even coating.
6. Serve:
   Toss the green beans before serving to coat them with the delicious sauce. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings. The prep time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 40 minutes, resulting in a total time of approximately 55 minutes.

Variations

• Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce to give the dish a bit of heat.
• Different Beans: Substitute with different types of beans, such as snap peas or asparagus, for a unique twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of water to retain moisture.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use fresh green beans?
   Yes, fresh green beans work great! Just blanch them before adding to the dish.
2. Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
   You can reduce the amount of butter and brown sugar, or use turkey bacon for a lighter option.
3. Can I prepare this in advance?
   Yes, you can assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
4. What can I serve with Crack Green Beans?
   They pair well with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or any holiday meal.
5. How do I know when the beans are done?
   The beans should be heated through and the sauce bubbly.
6. Can I use low-sodium soy sauce?
   Absolutely, low-sodium soy sauce is a great alternative to reduce salt content.
7. What if I don’t have brown sugar?
   You can substitute it with white sugar or a sugar alternative, though the flavor will differ slightly.
8. Can I freeze these?
   It’s best to eat them fresh, but you can freeze the baked beans. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
9. What if I want a vegetarian version?
   Omit the bacon and add mushrooms or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
10. Can I use a different type of bean?
    Yes, feel free to experiment with different beans based on your preference.

Conclusion

Crack Green Beans are a deliciously addictive side dish that brings together a perfect blend of flavors. Easy to prepare and sure to impress, they are ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings. Enjoy this scrumptious dish as a standout addition to your meal!

Print