Go Back
An extreme close-up overhead shot of glistening Crack Green Beans in a baking dish, showing the caramelized glaze and crumbled bacon.

Crack Green Beans: The Addictive Side Dish You Can't Resist

This Crack Green Beans recipe is the ultimate side dish! It features crisp green beans and savory bacon tossed in an addictive sweet and savory glaze, then baked to perfection. Easy, delicious, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 8 people
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs fresh green beans trimmed
  • 8 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar packed
  • 1/4 cup butter melted
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder

Equipment

  • 1 Large Skillet
  • 1 9x13 inch Baking Dish
  • 1 Large Pot

Instructions
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cook bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove bacon from the skillet, let cool, and crumble. Reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon grease.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the trimmed green beans and blanch for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain immediately and transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, reserved bacon grease, packed brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
  4. Drain the green beans well and place them in a 9x13 inch baking dish. Pour the glaze over the beans and toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle with half of the crumbled bacon.
  5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the glaze is bubbly and has thickened slightly. Remove from the oven, top with the remaining bacon, and serve immediately.

Notes

Tip 1: For the best texture, use fresh green beans. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before using.
Tip 2: Don't skip the ice bath after blanching! It keeps the green beans crisp and maintains their vibrant green color.
Tip 3: You can prepare the components ahead of time. Cook the bacon and blanch the green beans, then store them in the fridge. Assemble and bake just before serving.
QR Code linking back to recipe