Green Bean Bundles are a simple and tasty way to enjoy fresh green beans wrapped up with crispy bacon. The combination of tender beans and the salty bite of bacon makes for a perfect side dish that feels special but is really easy to make. They look fancy enough for guests but come together quickly.
I love making these green bean bundles when I want something a little different from plain steamed veggies. The bacon adds such great flavor, and I usually sprinkle just a bit of brown sugar or seasoning on top for a tiny sweet touch that balances everything out. It’s one of those recipes where simple ingredients shine.
My favorite way to serve green bean bundles is alongside a roast or grilled chicken. They add color and crunch to the plate and always get lots of compliments. I find they’re best when you eat them right away while the bacon is still crisp and the beans have a little snap. It’s an easy crowd-pleaser that feels like a treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are best for a crisp texture. If fresh aren’t available, you can use frozen beans, but be sure to thaw and dry them well before bundling.
Bacon: Thin slices work great to wrap around the beans and crisp nicely. Turkey bacon or plant-based bacon can be used for a lighter or vegetarian option, but cooking times may vary.
Olive Oil & Rosemary: Olive oil helps the beans roast nicely and rosemary adds a lovely herbal note. If you don’t have rosemary, thyme or sage work well, or simply skip the herb.
Butter: A little melted butter at the end adds richness and shine. You can skip this step or use a drizzle of good-quality olive oil instead.
How Do You Keep the Bacon Crispy While Cooking Green Beans?
The key to crispy bacon on green bean bundles is drying the green beans well before wrapping, so they don’t add moisture during baking. Also, bake at a high temperature (around 400°F) to crisp the bacon quickly without overcooking the beans.
- Pat your green beans dry with a towel after washing.
- Wrap bundles tightly so bacon holds in place and cooks evenly.
- Use a wire rack over a baking sheet to let bacon fat drip away and promote crispiness.
- Check bundles around 20 minutes to avoid burning but ensure crisp bacon.
With these steps, you’ll get green beans that are tender with just a little snap, wrapped in perfectly crispy bacon every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for holding the bundles and catching bacon drippings.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – keeps the bacon from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Wire rack (optional) – lets air circulate around the bundles for crispier bacon.
- Kitchen towel or salad spinner – to dry green beans well so bacon crisps up nicely.
- Toothpicks – helpful for securing bacon if it slips while wrapping the bundles.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a sprinkle of garlic powder or smoked paprika on the green beans for extra flavor.
- Swap bacon for prosciutto or thin slices of pancetta for a different salty, crispy twist.
- Mix in sliced almonds or chopped pecans for a crunchy texture inside the bundles.
- Include a few cherry tomatoes or small mozzarella balls in each bundle for a taste surprise.
How to Make Green Bean Bundles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bundles:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 8 slices of bacon (preferably thin slices)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp butter (optional, for finishing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 20-25 minutes for baking. So, in just under 40 minutes, you’ll have delicious green bean bundles ready to serve.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Beans:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and trim the ends of your green beans, then dry them well with a towel. This helps the bacon get nice and crispy later.
2. Season and Bundle:
In a large bowl, toss your green beans with olive oil, salt, pepper, and chopped rosemary if you’re using it. Divide the beans into 8 small bundles. Take one slice of bacon and wrap it tightly around each green bean bundle, overlapping the ends to keep everything in place. If necessary, use toothpicks to secure the bacon.
3. Bake the Bundles:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a wire rack placed over a baking sheet to catch bacon drippings. Place your bundles on the prepared sheet or rack. Bake them in your preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the green beans are tender but still slightly firm.
4. Finish and Serve:
If you’d like, melt some butter and drizzle it over your green bean bundles just before serving to add a rich touch. Serve them warm as a tasty side to your meal.
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans! Just make sure to thaw them completely and dry them well before wrapping with bacon to avoid soggy bundles.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Try swapping the bacon for thin slices of smoked tempeh or use a plant-based bacon alternative. Cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on the bundles to avoid burning.
Can I Prepare Green Bean Bundles Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the bundles and store them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best crispiness.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Keep leftover bundles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to regain crispiness.
