Garlic Butter Green Beans

These Garlic Butter Green Beans are a quick and flavorful side dish made with fresh green beans, buttery garlic, and simple seasonings. Ready in just 20 minutes, they’re perfect for weeknight dinners, holidays, or meal prep.

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Diet Gluten Free, Vegetarian

Keyword easy green bean recipe, garlic butter green beans, healthy green beans, sautéed green beans

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 10

Total Time 20

Servings

Calories 87kcal

Equipment

Large pot (for blanching the green beans)
Colander or strainer
Large skillet or sauté pan
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
Optional:
Large bowl with ice water (for blanching, to preserve color)

Ingredients

1½ pounds fresh green beans ends trimmed
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves finely minced
½ teaspoon salt or to taste
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

Blanch the green beans:

Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a rolling boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3–4 minutes, until bright green and crisp-tender.

Drain:

Drain the green beans immediately and set aside. (For best color, you may plunge them briefly into ice water, then drain well.)

Melt the butter:

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt completely.

Sauté the garlic:

Add the minced garlic and cook for 10–15 seconds, stirring constantly, just until fragrant. Do not brown.

Toss the green beans:

Add the drained green beans to the skillet. Season with salt and black pepper.

Finish cooking:

Toss and cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the green beans are heated through, glossy, and evenly coated in garlic butter.

Serve:

Remove from heat and serve warm.

Notes

Do not overcook the garlic: Garlic burns quickly; keep the heat moderate and stir constantly for best flavor.
Make-ahead option: Blanch the green beans up to 24 hours in advance. Store refrigerated, then sauté with butter and garlic just before serving.
Flavor variations:
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or lemon zest before serving.
Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
Finish with red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

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