Sue'S Green Beans
Sweet and savory green beans baked with brown sugar, margarine, and bacon bits, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the green beans and place them in a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish.
- Melt the margarine and mix it with the brown sugar.
- Pour the margarine and brown sugar mixture over the green beans.
- Sprinkle bacon bits on top of the beans.
- Cover the casserole dish and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes at 375°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you're looking to reduce sugar, you could substitute half of the brown sugar with maple syrup or honey. Adding a pinch of garlic powder can enhance the overall taste. This dish can also be adjusted with the addition of sliced almonds for a nutty crunch.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a hearty main like Pork Roast With Rosemary Crust or grilled meats. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread to balance the sweetness. For a complete meal, consider offering it with Busy Day Baked Beans for an American-inspired feast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Sue's Green Beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sue'S Green Beans contains roughly 1127 calories, with 1g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 121g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1001mg per serving (44% 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, fresh green beans can be used! Blanch them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes before draining and adding to the casserole. This will ensure they are tender and absorb the flavors of the margarine and brown sugar mixture.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make Sue's Green Beans vegetarian, simply omit the bacon bits or replace them with a vegetarian bacon alternative. You can also enhance the flavor with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for that savory, smoky taste without the meat.
Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it tightly. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
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).