Garlic butter green beans are a tasty side dish that’s super easy to make! Fresh green beans are quickly cooked and then tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce that makes them shine.
These beans are perfect for dinner or special occasions. I love how bright they look on the plate, and they’re so yummy! Plus, they take just minutes to whip up—who doesn’t love that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are the best choice for this recipe due to their crisp texture and bright flavor. If fresh beans aren’t available, frozen green beans can work too. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before cooking.
Butter: Unsalted butter is used here to control the salt levels in the dish. You can substitute it with olive oil for a lighter option, or if you’re dairy-free, try vegan butter or a plant-based oil.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a vibrant flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder instead. Use about 1/8 teaspoon for a quick alternative, but fresh is definitely more flavorful!
Red Pepper Flakes: This ingredient adds a nice heat; however, it’s optional. If you prefer milder dishes, you can omit them or substitute with freshly cracked black pepper for a different flavor profile.
How Can I Ensure My Garlic Doesn’t Burn?
Garlic can easily go from fragrant to burnt, which can ruin the dish quickly. To avoid this, follow these simple tips:
- Cook over medium heat, not high. This gives the garlic time to release its flavor without burning.
- Keep an eye on the garlic as it cooks. It only takes about 1 minute for it to become aromatic.
- If you’re worried about burning, add the garlic to the butter after it has melted and cooled slightly. This will ensure a smoother cooking process!
By following these steps, you’ll ensure a delightful garlic flavor in your dish every time!
Garlic Butter Green Beans
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedge (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious garlic butter green bean dish takes about 10-15 minutes of prep and cooking time. It’s quick to make, which makes it perfect for any meal, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Green Beans:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil on the stovetop. Once it’s boiling, add your trimmed green beans. Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still a little crisp and bright green. You want that beautiful color!
2. Ice Bath Time:
After cooking, drain the green beans and quickly transfer them to a bowl filled with ice water. This will stop the cooking process and keep them vibrant in color. After a minute, drain them again and set them aside for later.
3. Melt the Butter and Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, place over medium heat, add the unsalted butter, and let it melt. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute or until it’s fragrant, but make sure to keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
4. Toss in the Green Beans:
Now, add the drained green beans directly into the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss them around to make sure they are well coated with that delicious mixture!
5. Season and Sauté:
Sprinkle in salt, freshly ground black pepper, and the optional crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Cook everything together for 2-3 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re heated through and well seasoned.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the garlic butter green beans to a serving bowl. If you’d like, squeeze a lemon wedge over the top for a zesty touch! Serve them warm and enjoy this delightful dish!
Bon Appétit!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans. Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess moisture before cooking. Keep in mind that the cooking time may be slightly less since they’re pre-cooked during freezing.
How Do I Store Leftover Garlic Butter Green Beans?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
What Can I Substitute for Butter in This Recipe?
If you’re looking for a healthier option or if you’re dairy-free, you can substitute unsalted butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. Just use the same amount to keep the flavor similar!
How Can I Add More Flavor to This Dish?
For an extra boost of flavor, you can add a splash of soy sauce or lemon juice while sautéing the green beans. You can also include other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or grated Parmesan cheese for a different twist!
