Green Bean Bundles are the perfect blend of elegant presentation and comforting flavors that will impress anyone at your dinner table. These neat little packages transform ordinary green beans into something special by wrapping them in savory bacon and glazing them with a sweet-savory mixture that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
I first made these for a holiday gathering, and they’ve since become a requested favorite for family dinners. There’s something magical about how the bacon crisps around the tender beans, creating a perfect bite that’s both indulgent and veggie-forward.
Why You’ll Love This
- Impressive presentation with minimal effort—perfect for holidays and dinner parties
- Make-ahead friendly—prep the bundles earlier in the day and bake when ready
- The perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors
- Gets even picky eaters to enjoy their vegetables
- Elevates a simple side dish into something memorable
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh French green beans, trimmed
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic seasoning blend
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 6 slices bacon, cut in half
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add trimmed green beans and cook for 5-6 minutes until crisp-tender. Immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop cooking and preserve the bright green color. Drain well.
- In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, garlic seasoning, and soy sauce until it forms a thick, paste-like consistency. Set aside.
- Gather 5-7 green beans into small bundles. Wrap each bundle with a half slice of bacon, securing the beans together. The bacon should wrap around snugly but not too tight.
- Place the bacon-wrapped bundles on a rimmed baking sheet or in an oven-safe skillet. Sprinkle each bundle with a little extra garlic seasoning for added flavor.
- Brush or spoon the brown sugar glaze over each bundle, making sure to coat them well. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
- Let the bundles rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. The glaze will thicken slightly as it cools. Serve hot as an elegant side dish.
Tips & Variations
- For a sweeter version, add a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey to the glaze
- Try using prosciutto instead of bacon for a more delicate wrap
- Sprinkle with toasted sliced almonds before serving for extra crunch
- Add a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar to the glaze for a tangy twist
- For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne
- Partially cook the bacon before wrapping for extra-crispy results
Serving Suggestions
These Green Bean Bundles pair beautifully with roasted meats like turkey, ham, or beef tenderloin. The elegant presentation makes them perfect for holiday meals or Sunday dinners.
For a complete meal, serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes or wild rice pilaf. The bundles also complement other sides like roasted butternut squash or a simple garden salad with vinaigrette.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes.
- The bundles are done when the bacon is crisp and the beans are tender but still have a slight bite.
- If your bacon isn’t crisping up enough, switch to the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the bundles up to 24 hours in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator and add the glaze just before baking.
Can I use frozen green beans?
Fresh beans work best for this recipe. If using frozen, thaw completely and pat very dry before assembling to avoid soggy bundles.
How do I keep the bacon from unwrapping during cooking?
Secure each bundle with a toothpick, or place the bundles seam-side down on the baking sheet so the weight helps keep them closed.
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Cook at 375°F for about 12-15 minutes, checking frequently as cooking times may vary between models.
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