Baked Green Beans
Baked Green Beans combine tender green beans with crispy bacon and a tangy vinegar glaze, creating a savory side dish perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. The smoky, sweet, and acidic flavors complement a variety of main courses and add a nostalgic touch to any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain juice from the green beans and place them in a baking dish.
- Salt the green beans well.
- Fry the bacon until crispy and drain excess fat.
- Allow the bacon to slightly cool, then crumble it into small pieces.
- In the bacon fat, add sugar and vinegar; stir until the sugar is dissolved.
- Pour the vinegar mixture over the green beans.
- Crumble the cooked bacon over the top of the green beans.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh green beans instead of canned. If you want a slightly sweeter touch, add 1-2 tablespoons of brown sugar to the vinegar mixture. You can also substitute the bacon with turkey bacon for a lighter option. Adjust the salt to taste as canned beans can be quite salty. This dish is excellent for potlucks or as a side with American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these baked green beans alongside grilled meats or roasted chicken for a hearty meal. They pair beautifully with dishes like Old-Timey Potato Soup or Fried Grits With Ham. For a complete dinner, consider adding a fresh salad or a starch such as rice or mashed potatoes to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish and cover with foil, warming them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Green Beans contains roughly 104 calories, with 4g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (11% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh green beans! Just blanch them in boiling water for about 3-4 minutes before adding them to the baking dish. This will help maintain their bright color and crisp texture during baking.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and replace the bacon fat with olive oil or vegan butter. You can also add some chopped nuts for a savory crunch and additional flavor.
What can I serve with these baked green beans?
These baked green beans make a versatile side dish that goes well with many main courses. They are particularly delicious alongside roasted meats or as part of a holiday spread. Consider pairing them with pork recipes or a hearty casserole for a comforting meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).