Green Bean Bundle
Green bean bundles wrapped in bacon with a sweet and savory glaze make a delicious, crowd-pleasing side perfect for holiday dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut bacon pieces in half.
- Wrap each bacon piece around 6 to 8 green beans to form a bundle.
- Arrange the bundles in a baking dish.
- In a small saucepan, melt oleo (butter) and stir in brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour the sugar mixture over the green bean bundles.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until bacon is crispy and beans are heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider using smoked bacon or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sugar mixture. If you prefer, fresh green beans can be used instead of canned; just blanch them briefly before wrapping with bacon. Ensure the bacon is crispy by checking on the bundles a few minutes before the end of the baking time.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these green bean bundles as a delightful side dish at your next gathering or holiday meal. They pair wonderfully with grilled meats or a hearty main like roast chicken. For a complete dinner, consider serving alongside Hamburgers With A Twist or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover green bean bundles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish and cover with foil, then warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This helps maintain the bacon's crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Bean Bundle contains roughly 51 calories, with 0g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (10% 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 prepare the green bean bundles ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bundles and place them in the baking dish a few hours ahead of time. Just cover the dish with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. This makes it easy to serve during busy meal prep times.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, try using smoked tempeh or tofu marinated in liquid smoke for a similar flavor profile. You can also use turkey bacon for a lighter alternative, though the cooking time may vary slightly to ensure it's crispy.
How do I know when the bundles are done?
The bundles are done when the bacon is crispy and the green beans are heated through. You can check the bacon's crispiness by carefully lifting a bundle with tongs. If the bacon is still soft, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
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).