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Crack Green Beans

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These Crack Green Beans are so good, they might just become your new favorite way to enjoy veggies! Tender green beans are cooked in a savory, buttery sauce with a touch of garlic, bacon, and a crispy topping. It’s a rich, flavorful side that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, holidays, or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups fresh or frozen green beans (trimmed)
  • 6 slices bacon, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce (or Worcestershire sauce for deeper flavor)
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra richness)
  • 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the bacon:

    • In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy.
    • Remove bacon from the skillet and set aside, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pan.
  2. Sauté the garlic & seasonings:

    • Add butter to the same skillet with the bacon drippings and melt over medium heat.
    • Add minced garlic, onion powder, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Cook the green beans:

    • Add green beans to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the buttery mixture.
    • Cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the green beans are tender but still slightly crisp.
  4. Add the soy sauce & cheese:

    • Stir in soy sauce and cheddar cheese (if using), and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts and the green beans are well-coated.
  5. Serve & garnish:

    • Sprinkle with the crispy bacon and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately!

Notes

  • Make it Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.
  • Vegan Version: Skip the bacon and use olive oil and nutritional yeast for a savory flavor.
  • Extra Flavor: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving for a bright touch.
  • Make Ahead: These beans are best served fresh, but you can prep them up to a day in advance and reheat them gently on the stovetop.