Barbecued Green Beans
Barbecued Green Beans combine the smoky flavor of bacon with the sweetness of brown sugar and catsup, creating a delightful side dish. Perfect for barbecues or family gatherings, this dish offers a comforting twist on traditional green beans that will please both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry diced bacon and sauté the onion until soft.
- Drain the bacon and onion, then add catsup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and water. Simmer for 2 minutes.
- Pour the mixture over the green beans in a baking dish.
- Crumble 1 slice of cooked bacon over the top of the beans.
- Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a pinch of smoked paprika. If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can substitute the bacon with smoked tempeh or omit it entirely, using olive oil to sauté the onion. Adjust the sweetness by reducing brown sugar to taste, especially if using a sweeter ketchup. This dish is reminiscent of classic American recipes, making it a perfect side for barbecue gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve barbecued green beans as a flavorful side dish alongside grilled meats or alongside dishes like New England Clam Chowder for a hearty meal. They complement pork recipes wonderfully, especially smoked or barbecued options. For a complete meal, consider pairing them with a fresh Spinach Salad for added crunch and nutrition.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover barbecued green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecued Green Beans contains roughly 286 calories, with 7g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (16% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (15% of the Daily Value), and protein (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 609mg per serving (26% 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! Blanch them in boiling water for 3-5 minutes before adding to the recipe. This will help them retain their vibrant color and crisp texture, making the dish even more delicious.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the bacon and onion mixture. You can also substitute regular ketchup with a spicy variety or add a touch of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for an extra kick.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Ensure that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free, as some brands contain malt vinegar. You can also use a gluten-free ketchup or make your own to guarantee that the entire dish is gluten-free while maintaining great flavor.
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).