Green Bean Bundles are a simple and tasty way to enjoy fresh green beans wrapped up with bacon and a little seasoning. The crisp green beans and salty, smoky bacon make a great match, and the bundles are easy to cook and serve. They look nice on the plate too, which makes them perfect for family dinners or special gatherings.
I love making these because they come together really quickly, and almost everyone loves them. The bacon adds just the right amount of flavor without being overpowering, and the green beans stay nice and crisp. I usually tie the bundles with kitchen twine so they stay neat while cooking, but you can also use toothpicks for a quicker option.
These green bean bundles go great with just about any main dish, whether it’s roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a simple pasta. I often serve them as a green side for holiday meals, and they always get compliments. They’re one of those easy veggie dishes that make people want to eat their greens without even realizing it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green beans: Fresh green beans give a nice crunch and bright color. Look for firm, smooth beans without brown spots. If fresh aren’t available, you can use frozen, but thaw and dry them well first.
Bacon: Bacon adds smoky, salty flavor. I like thick-cut bacon for crispiness. For a lighter option, try turkey bacon or prosciutto, which also crisp nicely.
Olive oil: Helps season and roast the beans. If you don’t have olive oil, vegetable or avocado oil work well too. It helps the bacon and beans brown evenly.
Garlic powder: Adds subtle flavor without overpowering. You can swap with onion powder or fresh minced garlic if you prefer a stronger taste.
How Do You Keep Green Bean Bundles Neat and Crispy?
To keep bundles tidy and cook evenly, follow these steps:
- Trim and dry green beans well to avoid soggy bundles.
- Wrap bacon tightly around each bundle so it doesn’t unravel while cooking.
- If needed, secure the bacon with kitchen twine or toothpicks—just remember to remove twine before serving!
- Bake on a lined sheet and turn halfway to crisp bacon on all sides.
- Watch cooking time closely to keep green beans tender but not mushy, and bacon perfectly crisp.
These tips help balance crispiness and presentation for a tasty, attractive side dish!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for roasting the bundles evenly and catching drips.
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil – helps with easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
- Kitchen twine or toothpicks – keeps the bacon wrapped tightly around the green beans.
- Mixing bowl – to toss green beans with oil and seasonings evenly.
- Tongs or oven mitts – handy for turning the bundles halfway through baking safely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use prosciutto instead of bacon for a thinner, saltier wrap that crisps quickly.
- Add sliced almonds or chopped pecans to the bundles for extra crunch and nuttiness.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes or smoked paprika before baking for a little spice and smoky depth.
- Mix in cooked pearl onions or roasted garlic cloves with the green beans to boost the flavor.
How to Make Green Bean Bundles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Kitchen twine or toothpicks (optional, for securing bundles)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 20–25 minutes to bake. In less than 40 minutes, you’ll have crispy, flavorful Green Bean Bundles ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Green Beans:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse the green beans and trim the ends. Pat them dry well to help the bacon crisp up.
2. Season the Beans:
Toss the green beans in a bowl with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Make sure they’re evenly coated.
3. Form and Wrap Bundles:
Divide the green beans into 8 equal bundles. Cut each slice of bacon in half crosswise, then wrap one half-slice around each bundle tightly. Use kitchen twine or a toothpick to keep the bacon secure if needed.
4. Bake and Serve:
Place the bundles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning the bundles halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and the green beans are tender. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans for Green Bean Bundles?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans, but be sure to thaw and pat them dry thoroughly to prevent excess moisture, which can make the bacon soggy. Blanching them briefly before wrapping can also help maintain texture.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you prefer a lighter option or don’t eat pork, try turkey bacon or prosciutto. Both crisp nicely and add great flavor. For a vegetarian twist, you could use thinly sliced smoked tempeh or omit the wrap and season the beans well.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftover green bean bundles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes to crisp the bacon back up.
Can I Make Green Bean Bundles Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the bundles and wrap them with bacon, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Bake straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes if needed to crisp the bacon fully.
