Green Bundles
Savory green beans wrapped in bacon, glazed with sweet brown sugar butter and a hint of soy for a smoky, caramelized side that pairs perfectly with summer barbecues.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut bacon strips in half and secure 9 or 10 green beans in each bundle with toothpicks.
- Place the bundles in a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Whisk together 1 cup brown sugar, 1 cup melted butter or margarine, 1/2 tsp garlic salt, a dash of soy sauce, and any other seasonings to taste.
- Pour the glaze over the green bean bundles, ensuring they are well coated.
- Cover the pan and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the bundles uncovered for about 30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the glaze is caramelized.
- Serve warm as a flavorful side dish.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the glaze. If you prefer a healthier option, turkey bacon can be a great substitute. You can also experiment with different seasonings like onion powder or Italian herbs to customize the taste. Make sure to secure the bundles tightly so they hold together while baking.
Serving Suggestions
These green bundles are perfect as a side dish for holiday meals or family gatherings. They pair beautifully with American recipes like roasted turkey or ham. For a complete meal, serve with mashed potatoes and a fresh salad. You can also consider serving them alongside Cheese And Bacon Mushrooms for a delightful flavor combination.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover green bundles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them in a microwave-safe dish, covered, for about 2-3 minutes, checking for warmth.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Bundles contains roughly 134 calories, with 3g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 917mg per serving (40% 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 about 3-5 minutes until tender-crisp before wrapping them in bacon. This will ensure they cook properly and stay vibrant in color during baking.
How can I make these bundles ahead of time?
You can prepare the bundles and assemble them in the pan a day in advance. Once assembled, cover and refrigerate them until you're ready to bake. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before placing them in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What other seasonings can I add to the glaze?
Feel free to get creative with the glaze! Adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard can give it a tangy flavor, while a splash of balsamic vinegar adds depth. Additionally, experimenting with herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance the overall taste of the dish.
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).