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Crispy Crack Green Beans with Bacon

crispy crack green beans with bacon - featured image

These crispy crack green beans with bacon are a quick, irresistible side dish featuring roasted green beans, smoky bacon, and a sweet brown sugar glaze. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any gathering, they deliver bold flavor and a crunchy bite that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb fresh green beans, ends trimmed
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 tbsp packed brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tsp garlic powder (or 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
  2. Trim ends off green beans and pat dry. Chop bacon into 1-inch pieces.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, toss green beans, bacon, melted butter, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) until evenly coated.
  4. Spread mixture onto prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
  5. Roast for 15 minutes.
  6. Flip beans and bacon with tongs or spatula. Roast another 10-15 minutes, until beans are blistered and bacon is golden and crispy.
  7. Optional: Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese immediately after removing from oven.
  8. Transfer to serving platter, drizzle with pan juices, and serve hot.

Notes

For best results, use thick-cut bacon and pat green beans dry before roasting. Don’t overcrowd the pan—use two sheets for larger batches. For vegetarian or dairy-free adaptations, use plant-based bacon and olive oil, and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan alternative. Add slivered almonds or crispy fried onions for extra crunch. Reheat leftovers in the oven to revive crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: green beans, bacon, Thanksgiving, side dish, roasted, crispy, holiday, easy, comfort food