There’s something utterly delightful about the combination of crispy bacon and fresh green beans, and I can’t help but smile every time I serve these Bacon Green Bean Bundles. Picture it: the savory aroma wafts through the kitchen as the bacon develops a deliciously smoky crispness, intensifying with each minute it shares with those vibrant green beans.
This dish was born out of my quest for a veggie side that would not only please my picky eaters but also elevate our family dinners. It’s amazing how wrapping veggies in bacon can turn even the most reluctant veggie-lover into a fan! The slight sweetness from the brown sugar and the kick of garlic salt meld beautifully, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor.
Perfect for holiday gatherings, weeknight meals, or even potlucks, these bundles are as versatile as they are impressive. So if you’re looking to break free from fast food routines and bring some easy, homemade goodness into your table, let’s dive into this simple yet crowd-pleasing recipe that everyone will love!
Why are Bacon Green Bean Bundles so irresistible?
Crispy, Juicy Perfection: The combination of crispy bacon wrapped around tender green beans creates a mouthwatering harmony of flavors.
Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can serve up a dish that looks gourmet and tastes even better.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings, these bundles transform a side dish into the star of the meal.
Sweet and Savory Magic: The unique blend of brown sugar and garlic salt brings out a delightful taste that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Healthier Indulgence: An easy way to enjoy veggies, making them exciting and delicious without compromising on nutrition.
Bacon Green Bean Bundles Ingredients
• Get ready to elevate your dinner!
For the Bundles
• 1 1/4 lbs green beans – Fresh, vibrant beans add a crisp texture that pairs perfectly with the smoky bacon.
• 6 slices bacon – Choose thick-cut bacon for extra flavor and satisfying crispness.
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt – This seasoning enhances the savory notes, making the bundles truly irresistible.
For the Butter Mixture
• 1/4 cup butter – Adds richness and helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar – Infuses a touch of sweetness, balancing the savory elements in the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper – A pinch of pepper adds a subtle kick to the delicious combination.
For the Garnish
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional) – A sprinkle of fresh parsley brings a burst of color and freshness to your bundles.
• cooking spray – Prevents sticking and ensures your bundles bake up beautifully crispy.
How to Make Bacon Green Bean Bundles
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Preheat the oven to 400°F. Place the bacon slices on a sheet pan, spreading them evenly so they crisp up nicely. Bake for about 7 minutes until they start to render fat but aren’t fully crispy.
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Trim the ends of the green beans to ensure they cook evenly. Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil as you prep the beans.
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Blanch the green beans by placing them in the boiling water for about 2-3 minutes until they’re just tender and vibrant green. Drain them and transfer to a bowl of ice water to halt cooking.
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Dry the green beans thoroughly by patting them with a clean kitchen towel. In a small mixing bowl, combine the garlic salt, softened butter, brown sugar, and pepper; mix until smooth. Then, pour this buttery goodness over the green beans, tossing gently to coat.
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Wrap 8-10 green beans with a slice of bacon, securing each bundle with a toothpick. Arrange these gifts of flavor on a sheet pan coated with cooking spray, preparing them for their tasty transformation.
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Bake the green bean bundles for 15-20 minutes until the bacon becomes crispy and golden brown. Once out of the oven, sprinkle with parsley if desired, and serve while hot and fragrant.
Optional: Drizzle with balsamic glaze for an extra layer of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Bacon Green Bean Bundles
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Choose the Right Bacon: Opt for thick-cut bacon for an extra crispy texture that holds up well against the green beans during cooking.
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Don’t Overcook Beans: Blanch the green beans for just 2-3 minutes to keep them vibrant and crisp. Remember, they’ll continue cooking in the oven!
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Ensure Dry Beans: Pat the green beans dry after blanching to prevent excess moisture, which can make the bacon soggy instead of crispy.
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Secure Tightly: Wrap the bacon snugly around the green beans to ensure each bundle maintains its shape while baking, preventing any unwrapping.
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Add Flavor Variations: Experiment with seasonings like smoked paprika or a touch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick in your Bacon Green Bean Bundles.
Bacon Green Bean Bundles Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delicious bundles and customize them to match your taste preferences.
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Paleo-Friendly: Use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon for a lighter, healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
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Vegan Twist: Swap out the bacon for tempeh that’s marinated in a smoky sauce to give a similar taste and texture for a plant-based delight.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to your butter mixture for those who crave a bit of heat in their green bean bundles. The spices will awaken your taste buds!
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Herb Infusion: Mix in your favorite fresh herbs, like thyme or rosemary, with the garlic salt for a fragrance and flavor boost that’ll make your kitchen sing!
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Cheesy Surprise: Top the bundles with shredded cheese in the final few minutes of baking. A blend of parmesan and mozzarella will create a gooey, delicious crown for your bundles.
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Maple Sweetness: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup for a unique sweetness that will caramelize beautifully during baking, providing a delightful and unexpected twist.
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Asian Flavor: Drizzle a bit of soy sauce over the green beans before wrapping them in bacon. This adds a rich umami flavor that melds stunningly with the savory bacon.
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Crunchy Topping: For an added crunch, sprinkle some toasted almond slivers over the bundles just before serving. This gives a delightful texture and nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
Make Ahead Options
These Bacon Green Bean Bundles are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade side without the last-minute rush! You can prep the green beans and wrap them in bacon up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the initial steps of blanching the green beans and wrapping them with bacon, then place the bundles on a greased sheet pan and cover with plastic wrap in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also helps prevent the bacon from becoming soggy. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake the bundles for 15-20 minutes until crispy, and enjoy the same mouthwatering flavors without any fuss!
How to Store and Freeze Bacon Green Bean Bundles
Room Temperature: Do not store at room temperature; leftover Bacon Green Bean Bundles should be refrigerated to maintain freshness.
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to retain crispiness.
Freezer: If you want to freeze, place the bundles on a sheet pan to freeze individually before transferring to an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they regain their delicious crispy texture.
What to Serve with Bacon Green Bean Bundles?
Looking to create a delightful meal that complements these savory bundles? Let’s explore some delicious pairings that will complete your dining experience.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery texture will balance the crispy bundles beautifully, making each bite divine.
- Garlic Bread: Its crisp crust and soft inside will soak up any delicious juices, enhancing the comfort food vibe.
The combination of garlic bread and Bacon Green Bean Bundles creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Unique flavors will dance on your palate, ensuring a hearty meal everyone will enjoy.
- Honey Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness contrasts deliciously with the savory bacon, bringing a burst of color to your plate.
- Roasted Chicken: Juicy and flavorful, it provides a wholesome protein that pairs perfectly with the bundles.
Don’t forget about drinks! For a refreshing accompaniment:
- Chilled Sauvignon Blanc: This white wine’s crisp acidity will elevate the meal while harmonizing with the savory notes.
Finish your feast with something sweet like:
- Apple Pie: A classic dessert that offers a warm, comforting end to a delightful dinner. The natural sweetness and cinnamon spice will be a lovely capper to your meal.
Each of these pairings will elevate your Bacon Green Bean Bundles, leaving every guest at your table smiling with satisfaction.
Bacon Green Bean Bundles Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best green beans for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for fresh green beans that are bright green, firm, and free of dark spots or blemishes. The ends should be snipped off for even cooking. If possible, pick beans that are similar in size for a uniform appearance when wrapped in bacon.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Store any leftover Bacon Green Bean Bundles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The key here is to allow them to cool completely before sealing them up to maintain the best flavor and texture.
Can I freeze Bacon Green Bean Bundles?
Of course! To freeze, first arrange the bundles in a single layer on a sheet pan and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What if the bacon doesn’t get crispy in the oven?
No worries! If you find that the bacon isn’t crispy enough after baking, increase the oven temperature to 425°F and continue baking for an additional 5 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. Also, make sure you’ve placed the bundles on a cooking spray-coated pan to help them crisp up as they bake.
Are Bacon Green Bean Bundles suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains fresh green beans and bacon. Just be sure to check the labels of any additional ingredients you use, like spices or seasoning blends, to ensure they’re gluten-free as well. Your guests will love this delicious veggie twist!
Can I make these bundles ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the bundles a few hours in advance by assembling them and placing them on a baking sheet. Cover them loosely with plastic wrap and store them in the fridge until it’s time to bake. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve for a quick and impressive side dish!
Irresistible Bacon Green Bean Bundles Ready in 30 Minutes!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. Place the bacon slices on a sheet pan, spreading them evenly. Bake for about 7 minutes until they start to render fat.
- Trim the ends of the green beans. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Blanch the green beans in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until tender. Drain and transfer to ice water.
- Dry the green beans thoroughly and combine garlic salt, butter, brown sugar, and pepper in a bowl. Pour over the green beans and toss to coat.
- Wrap 8-10 green beans with a slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick. Arrange on a cooking spray-coated sheet pan.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until the bacon is crispy and golden. Sprinkle with parsley if desired.