Blackstone Green Beans with Bacon

Blackstone Green Beans with Bacon are my ultimate shortcut for turning simple green beans into something everyone at the table actually fights over. The sizzle from the griddle infuses the beans with smoky bacon flavor and a touch of garlic. It is a game changer for any weeknight dinner or potluck spread.

When I first made this on my outdoor griddle during a barbecue everyone kept sneaking bites before I served dinner. It instantly became a fixture at our family gatherings especially in the summer.

Ingredients

• Canned green beans: choose quality beans with vibrant color for the best texture avoid mushy ones
• Bacon: thick cut gives the richest flavor and meaty bite
• Minced garlic: brings subtle heat and aroma go for fresh pre-minced for convenience
• Salt: brightens flavors use kosher or sea salt for more even seasoning
• Black pepper: gives gentle warmth freshly ground is best for depth

When buying bacon look for strips with a balance of fat and lean meat as the fat will render and coat the beans with flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Blackstone Grill:

Make sure your grill is hot at medium high about four hundred degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures the bacon browns quickly and crisps without steaming.

Cook the Bacon:

Scatter the diced bacon straight onto the griddle surface. Let it sizzle for three to four minutes. Stir occasionally so all pieces start turning golden and the fat renders out. The flavor of your final dish depends on this fat getting nice and toasty.

Sauté the Green Beans:

Pour the drained green beans right over the sizzling bacon and toss to coat them in the rendered fat. Keep turning everything together for four to five minutes as the beans take on a browned tint and the bacon gets fully crisped.

Add Garlic:

Sprinkle the minced garlic all over and keep the beans moving for about a minute. The garlic will become fragrant without burning. This step mellows the raw edge and infuses all the ingredients.

Finish and Serve:

Remove everything from the hot griddle as soon as the green beans are browned and the garlic smells sweet and toasty. Serve warm for the best texture and boldest flavor.

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Making this recipe with my grandfather’s slab bacon always reminds me of Sunday lunches growing up. The smoky scent from the grill instantly takes me back and even picky eaters reach for seconds when the bacon sizzles.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Reheat on the stovetop or in a hot skillet to revive crispness. They also freeze well for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap in turkey bacon if you prefer less fat or use smoked sausage coins for a twist. Fresh green beans bring a firmer bite but you need to trim and blanch them first. If using frozen beans let them sauté longer on the griddle until they are heated through and lightly caramelized. Garlic powder can be used in a pinch but fresh gives the best aroma.

Serving Suggestions

This side is an all-purpose player. I love piling these beans next to burgers steaks or crispy barbecue chicken. For extra flavor toss a splash of balsamic vinegar or a handful of toasted almonds at the end. They are also excellent stirred into rice or as a brunch side with eggs.

Cultural or Historical Context

Griddled green beans and bacon are classic in many American kitchens and echo Southern skillet styles that value smoky pork with vegetables. The easy prep and rich taste appeal to both holiday tables and everyday meals especially where fresh green beans are a summer staple.

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh or frozen green beans?

Yes, both fresh and frozen green beans work well. If using frozen, sauté longer to ensure tenderness.

→ How do I prevent bacon from burning on the griddle?

Cook bacon over medium-high heat and stir often, removing from heat once browned to avoid overcooking.

→ What can I substitute for bacon?

For a different flavor, try pancetta, turkey bacon, or omit the bacon entirely for a vegetarian approach.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Store cooled green beans with bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I add other seasonings or vegetables?

Absolutely! Try adding onions, crushed red pepper, or a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness.