Description
Bacon-Wrapped Green Bean Bundles
A perfect holiday side dish or a savory snack, these Bacon-Wrapped Green Bean Bundles are glazed with sweet and savory flavors and baked to crispy perfection!
Ingredients:
1 lb green beans
10 slices of bacon
¼ cup brown sugar
2 tbsp melted butter
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp black pepper
Instructions:
Blanch green beans for 3 minutes, then drain.
Wrap a handful of green beans with bacon.
Mix brown sugar, butter, garlic powder, and pepper.
Coat each bundle with the mixture.
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes until crispy.
Serve warm and enjoy!
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect bundles every time. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Trim the ends from your fresh green beans. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the beans for exactly 3 minutes. Immediately drain and plunge them into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking and lock in their vibrant green color and crisp-tender texture. Pat them completely dry with paper towels. Divide the beans into 10 equal portions. Take one slice of bacon and wrap it snugly around the middle of a bean bundle, tucking the end underneath. In a small bowl, thoroughly whisk together the brown sugar, melted butter, garlic powder, and black pepper. Using a pastry brush or spoon, generously coat each bundle on all sides with the glaze. Place the bundles seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the glaze is bubbling.
Serving Suggestions
These bundles are incredibly versatile. For holidays, arrange them in a radiating pattern on a platter as an elegant side to roasted turkey or prime rib. For a casual dinner, they pair wonderfully with grilled chicken or pork chops. Transform them into a standout appetizer by serving them on a platter with a side of creamy garlic aioli or a tangy honey mustard dip for extra flavor. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt and a drizzle of balsamic reduction right before serving can elevate the presentation and taste.
How-to Summary
Blanch and dry green beans. Wrap small bundles with bacon. Coat with a glaze of brown sugar, butter, garlic powder, and pepper. Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes until crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the bundles and coat them with glaze up to a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator, then bake just before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time if needed.
Can I use frozen green beans? It’s not recommended. Frozen beans often contain too much moisture, which will steam instead of roast, resulting in soggy bacon. Fresh, crisp green beans are essential for texture.
How do I prevent the bacon from unraveling? Ensure the bacon end is tucked securely underneath the bundle when placing it seam-side down on the baking sheet. You can also use a toothpick to secure it, but remember to remove it before serving.
My bacon isn’t getting crispy. What can I do? If the bacon is cooked but not crisp, finish the bundles under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. Also, ensure your beans are patted very dry before wrapping.
Can I use a different sweetener? Absolutely. Maple syrup or honey can be substituted for the brown sugar. The flavor will be slightly different but equally delicious.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid skipping the blanching step, as it ensures the beans are perfectly tender inside. Do not wrap overly thick bundles, as the bacon may not cook through. Never place bundles on a cold baking sheet; always preheat the oven first. Finally, do not overcrowd the pan, as this will cause the bundles to steam instead of roast and crisp up properly.
Conclusion
Bacon-Wrapped Green Bean Bundles are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that masterfully combines simplicity with impressive results. The contrast of savory, crispy bacon with sweet, tender green beans creates a side dish or appetizer that feels special enough for holidays yet easy enough for any weeknight. By following this enhanced guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a memorable and delicious dish that will have everyone asking for the recipe.