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Sautéed Green Beans with Bacon couldn’t get any more simple to prepare. Boiled till crisp-tender then added to a skillet sizzling with bacon goodness, this recipe is a surefire way to get everyone eating their vegetables. It’s an easy, gluten free, and keto friendly side dish that can be added to a weeknight meal or holiday dinner menu!
I love green beans. I love my family. But the combination of the two can be a challenge.
Most of the time my husband will tell me that he likes his beans when they are nice and tender. Then one time I make them where they have a little bit of bite still left in them, and he says he really enjoys them that way.
Which is it, man?!
My little one insists that they be cut super small. Mind you he is 7, happily devours giant bites of steak, and knows how to handle a knife. But no, mommy or daddy must be the ones to cut them for him.
But I have found the ultimate way to get all of them to eat their veggies, regardless of the size or texture of the beans.
Just. Add. BACON!
Why do I want my family to eat their green beans? Well, not only do I love them and want to keep them on our menu regularly, but they are so good for you!
Nutrition Benefits of Green Beans
Green beans are low in calories and naturally cholesterol- and fat-free. They are a great source of fiber and complex carbohydrates. Beans also have high amounts of Vitamins K and C and are also a good source of B vitamins. Eat them to support brain health, strong bones, and cell repair.
Not to mention green beans themself are naturally gluten free, keto, and paleo. And this recipe can be made to fit in with any of those lifestyles or diets.
Sautéed Green Beans Recipe with Bacon
These bacon green beans are sure to become a staple in your collection of favorite side dish recipes. They are fast and easy to make and only have a few simple ingredients. You might already have everything you need in your kitchen. So let’s get started!
Here is a brief overview so you can see just how easy it is to make. Scroll down to the printable recipe card for the full quantities and details. But don’t skip my PRO TIPS below!
What You’ll Need
- Green beans – you can use whole green beans or cut them shorter. Frozen green beans can also be substituted, just thaw first or boil a few minutes longer.
- Butter – I prefer to use unsalted butter so I can control the amount of salt, especially since bacon is salty. If you want to make this paleo or Whole 30 compliant, use ghee.
- Olive oil
- Bacon – regular pork bacon is the best, but if necessary you can use turkey bacon. Be sure to use keto and/or paleo-friendly bacon, if needed.
- Dried savory – if you don’t have this herb, dried thyme or sage would also be delicious.
- Salt
How to make skillet green beans and bacon
- Snip 1/4 to 1/2 inch off the ends of the beans and boil in salted water. Drain throughly.
- Heat the butter and olive oil in the skillet, add bacon that has been cut into pieces, and cook until crispy.
- Add the beans and dried herbs and cook until the beans reach your desired tenderness. Add salt to taste.
Now you can put the sauteed green beans right onto plates to serve if you are making these for a quick weeknight meal. Or transfer to a serving bowl for a sit down dinner for the holidays or another special occasion.
Keep reading for menu ideas!
FAQ’s
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook this ahead and reheat later either in the microwave or warmed up in a pan on the stove.
You can also pre-boil and dunk beans in an ice bath. They will stay fresh when stored in the refrigerator for 2 or 3 days. Then just add to the pan after cooking the bacon, as directed in the recipe.
Can the recipe be doubled?
Yes, you can double the batch of bacon green beans. You’ll just need to use a larger skillet.
What else can you add to green beans and bacon?
- Saute mushrooms with the bacon.
- Add a little crunch by tossing in sliced almonds, chopped pecans or walnuts, or your favorite nuts.
- Chopped tomatoes or halved grape tomatoes give it a little pop of fresh flavor.
- Sprinkle with parmesan cheese at the end. You can even toss in a little goat cheese, feta, or blue cheese.
Make it a Meal
Quick Weeknight Dinner
Sunday Supper
Easy Thanksgiving Dinner
Holiday Feast
More green bean recipes
- Lemon White Wine Green Beans and Mushrooms
- Balsamic Green Beans with Cranberries
- Pineapple Glazed Green Beans with Pecans
- Creamy Green Beans and Mushrooms
- Orange Cranberry Green Beans
- Garlic Green Beans from Eazy Peazy Mealz
Sauteed Green Beans with Bacon
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans
- 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 7-8 slices bacon (about 3.5 oz.), cut into pieces
- 1 teaspoon dried savory (or thyme)
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt, or to taste
Instructions
- Fill a pot about halfway with water and add a good pinch of salt. Place over medium heat and bring to a boil.
- Wash green beans and snip off about 1/4- to 1/2-inch from the ends.
- Add the beans to the boiling water and boil for about 5 minutes until crisp tender (longer if you like them softer). Drain.
- While the beans are boiling, add butter and oil to a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the butter has melted, add the chopped bacon pieces and cook until browned and slightly crispy.
- Add the beans, savory or thyme, and salt to the pan and toss to coat.
- Reduce heat to low and cook for 10-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to your preferred texture.
Did you make this?
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