Introduction

Garlic butter green beans are a delicious and easy side dish that complements any meal. Crisp-tender green beans coated in a fragrant garlic butter sauce make this recipe a favorite for both weeknights and special occasions. Even picky eaters love how flavorful these simple green beans are!

A close-up view of a black bowl filled with bright green cooked green beans that have a shiny, slightly oily texture. Small pieces of light golden-brown cooked garlic are scattered evenly across the green beans. A golden spoon is partially visible inside the bowl, resting among the beans. The whole setting sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter

6 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Wash the green beans thoroughly under cold water and trim the stem ends. Snap or cut the beans into 1-2 inch pieces for even cooking. Set aside.
Step 2: Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves. Set aside.
Step 3: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter with the olive oil. Allow it to melt completely, shimmering slightly.

Step 4: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté over medium-low heat for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Step 5: Add the prepared green beans to the skillet. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss to coat the beans evenly in the garlic butter.
Step 6: Increase heat to medium-high and cook for 8-12 minutes, stirring frequently, until the green beans are bright green and crisp-tender. Avoid overcooking to maintain a slight snap.

Step 7: If desired, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the beans and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Toss gently to combine.
Step 8: Serve immediately as a flavorful side dish with your favorite main course.

Tips & Variations

To keep green beans extra crisp, briefly blanch them in boiling salted water for 2-3 minutes, then plunge into ice water before sautéing.

Use vegan butter or additional olive oil to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
Try adding a splash of dry white wine after sautéing the garlic for added flavor complexity.
Sprinkle toasted almonds or grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving for extra texture and taste.

If fresh parsley is unavailable, substitute with chives, dill, or thyme, or use dried parsley added earlier in cooking.

Storage

Store leftover garlic butter green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, though be aware they may lose some crispness upon reheating. For best texture, enjoy freshly cooked when possible.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a dish with bright green cooked green beans as the main layer, glistening with oil, evenly coated with small pieces of golden brown crispy garlic scattered on top. The green beans are placed in a shiny black bowl with a thin gold rim, showing the glossy texture of the vegetables. A gold spoon is seen behind the beans, resting inside the bowl, all set against a white marbled texture background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen green beans for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans, but they may be softer and release more water. Thaw and pat them dry before cooking, and reduce the cooking time slightly.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, asparagus, or snap peas work well. Add them with or slightly before the green beans, adjusting cooking times accordingly.