SMOTHERED GREEN BEANS
Imagine a dish so delightful that it steals the spotlight at your dinner table. Smothered Green Beans do just that. This recipe is a scrumptious blend of canned green beans enveloped in a delectable sauce made of bacon, brown sugar, butter, soy sauce, and garlic. Perfect for potlucks and family gatherings, these green beans are sure to have everyone going back for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Smothered Green Beans are incredibly tasty and easy to prepare. The combination of savory bacon and sweet brown sugar creates a mouthwatering flavor that complements the green beans perfectly. Plus, you can even prepare the bacon ahead of time, making the final assembly take just a few minutes.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large skillet
- Whisk
- Paper towels
Ingredients
- 5 (15-oz) cans green beans, drained
- 1 lb bacon
- ⅔ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1½ tsp garlic powder
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350ºF.
- Pour the drained green beans into an ungreased 9×13-inch pan.
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon until it’s nearly done but not too crispy. Remove from the skillet, drain on a paper towel, and chop. Sprinkle the chopped bacon over the green beans.
- In a bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, melted butter, soy sauce, and garlic powder. Pour this mixture over the green beans and bacon.
- Bake the dish uncovered for 40 minutes.
Tips for Success
For the best results, ensure the bacon is cooked just enough to retain its texture without becoming too crispy. This keeps it juicy and flavorful. Also, mixing the sauce ingredients thoroughly before pouring them over the green beans ensures an even distribution of flavors.
Additional Tips and Variations
If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also experiment with fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for a more intense flavor. For a fresher option, use fresh green beans; just blanch them before using.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This dish is a crowd-pleaser with its rich flavors, but it’s always good to be mindful of portions due to its sugar and bacon content. Enjoy it as part of a balanced meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned? Absolutely! Just blanch the fresh green beans before using them in the recipe.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the bacon and the sauce ahead. Assemble and bake the dish just before serving.
Conclusion
These Smothered Green Beans are a must-try for any green bean lover. Their irresistible flavor and ease of preparation make them a standout dish for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your experiences in the comments below!