Bacon-Wrapped Green Beans

Bacon-Wrapped Green Beans: A Crispy, Savory Side Dish That Steals the Show 🥓🌱🔥

1. Introduction

Bacon-Wrapped Green Beans are the ultimate side dish that combines crispy, smoky bacon with tender green beans for a flavor explosion in every bite. Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or any occasion, this dish is simple to make yet impressive enough to wow your guests. Whether you’re a bacon lover or just looking for a delicious way to enjoy green beans, this recipe is a must-try! If you’re looking for more dinner inspiration, check out our collection of easy-to-make recipes.

2. Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
• 8 slices of bacon (thick-cut preferred)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt
• Toothpicks (for securing bacon)

For those who love experimenting with flavors, you might enjoy our Mexican Mac and Cheese as another delicious side dish option.

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Green Beans and Bacon

Start by washing and trimming the ends of the green beans. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure crispiness. Cutting each bacon slice in half lengthwise creates thinner strips that wrap more easily around the green bean bundles. This technique helps the bacon cook evenly and ensures every bite has the perfect bacon-to-green-bean ratio.

Step 2: Wrap the Green Beans

Take a small bundle of green beans (about 6-8 beans) and wrap a half-slice of bacon around them. The key is to wrap the bacon snugly but not too tight, allowing room for the beans to cook properly. Secure the bacon with a toothpick to hold it in place. Repeat until all green beans are wrapped. For a fun twist, try alternating the direction of your bacon wraps for a more professional presentation.

Step 3: Season and Arrange

Place the bacon-wrapped green bean bundles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and brown sugar (if using). The brown sugar creates a delicious caramelization on the bacon while balancing the savory flavors. For more sweet and savory combinations, check out our Potato Chip Toffee recipe.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the bacon-wrapped green beans for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the green beans are tender. Flip halfway through for even cooking. The exact cooking time may vary depending on your oven and the thickness of your bacon, so keep an eye on them during the last few minutes. For more make-ahead recipes, visit this external resource.

4. Serving Suggestions

These Bacon-Wrapped Green Beans pair wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as a standout appetizer. Serve them hot with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for extra flavor. They’re particularly delicious alongside our Copycat Chicken Bryan for a complete meal. For a refreshing drink pairing, try our Limoncello Spritz.

5. Variations & Tips

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes before baking for those who love heat.
• Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or parmesan over the bundles before baking for extra richness.
• Make Ahead: Prep the bundles ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake – perfect for holiday meal planning.
• Crispier Bacon: Broil for the last 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness if desired.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the bundles before baking for aromatic complexity.

6. Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 180 | Fat: 12g | Carbs: 8g | Fiber: 3g | Protein: 8g

While this dish is indulgent, the green beans provide valuable nutrients like vitamin K and fiber. For more balanced meal ideas, browse our breakfast recipes to start your day right.

7. Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen green beans?

Fresh green beans work best for crispiness, but you can use frozen—just thaw and pat dry thoroughly to remove excess moisture that could make the bacon soggy.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes for best texture – the microwave will make the bacon lose its crispness.

Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes! Cook at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway. The air fryer gives especially crispy results, but you may need to work in batches depending on the size of your air fryer basket.

8. Why This Recipe Works

The combination of crispy bacon and tender green beans creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The bacon fat infuses the green beans with smoky richness, while the seasoning enhances every bite. The optional brown sugar creates a beautiful caramelization that takes this dish to the next level. Plus, it’s an easy yet elegant dish that’s sure to impress at any gathering, from casual family dinners to holiday feasts.

9. Conclusion

Bacon-Wrapped Green Beans are a game-changing side dish that’s as delicious as it is simple. Whether for a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers crispy, savory perfection every time. The contrast of textures and flavors makes it universally appealing, and the presentation is impressive enough for special occasions. Try it today and watch it become a family favorite! For more culinary inspiration, visit our About Me page to learn about our recipe development process. Don’t forget to check our disclaimer and terms and conditions for important information.

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