Green Bean Bundles are a simple and tasty way to enjoy crisp green beans wrapped with a bit of bacon or ham, making every bite full of flavor and texture. The green beans stay nice and fresh while the smoky meat adds a delicious twist that feels like a little treat. These bundles are perfect for a side dish that’s both approachable and a bit special.
I love making Green Bean Bundles when I want something easy but impressive. Wrapping the green beans in bacon is a fun little step that makes the dish feel thoughtful, and when they come out of the oven crispy on the outside and tender inside, it’s hard not to smile. I usually add a touch of garlic or a sprinkle of brown sugar for a bit of extra flavor—small touches that make a big difference.
These bundles work great for holidays or casual family dinners. I like to serve them right alongside a roasted chicken or a simple steak, and they always get compliments. They’re perfect when you want a veggie side with a bit of a wow factor but without lots of fuss. I think everyone deserves a little bacon-wrapped joy now and then!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans give a nice crunch and vibrant color. If fresh aren’t available, frozen green beans work too—just thaw and pat dry before bundling.
Bacon: Bacon adds smoky flavor and crisp texture. You can swap for turkey bacon for a leaner option, or prosciutto for a delicate twist.
Rosemary: Fresh rosemary brings aromatic notes that pair well with bacon and green beans. If you don’t have it, try thyme or skip the herb.
Brown Sugar or Maple Syrup (optional): A touch of sweetness balances the saltiness of bacon. Feel free to omit if you prefer savory only.
How Do You Get Bacon Crispy Without Burning the Green Beans?
Baking bacon-wrapped bundles needs balance so bacon crisps but beans don’t overcook. Here’s how:
- Blanch beans briefly in boiling water, then shock in ice water. This softens the beans just enough while keeping them fresh.
- Dry beans really well after blanching to avoid soggy bundles.
- Wrap bundles snugly but not too tight, allowing heat to circulate.
- Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, watching closely after 20 minutes.
- If bacon isn’t crisping fast enough, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end—watch closely to avoid burning.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – a flat surface to cook bundles evenly and catch drips.
- Parchment paper or foil – helps with easy cleanup and stops sticking.
- Large pot – for boiling (blanching) the green beans quickly.
- Slotted spoon or tongs – makes handling hot beans easy when transferring to ice bath.
- Bowl with ice water – to cool and stop cooking the beans fast, keeping them crisp.
- Kitchen towel or paper towels – drying green beans well ensures crisp bacon.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap rosemary for thyme or sage for different herbal flavors that pair beautifully with bacon.
- Use prosciutto instead of bacon for a lighter, saltier taste and thinner wrap.
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before baking for a little spicy kick.
- Include a few slivers of almonds or pecans inside the bundle for crunch and nuttiness.
How to Make Green Bean Bundles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 8 slices bacon
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary (one per bundle)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon brown sugar or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake, totaling roughly 30-35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick side dish that adds a special touch to any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Green Beans:
First, wash and trim the green beans. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then blanch the green beans by boiling them for 3-4 minutes until they turn bright green and are slightly tender. Drain the beans and immediately place them in a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking. Once cooled, drain the green beans again and pat them dry with paper towels to remove any moisture.
2. Assemble the Bundles:
Divide the green beans into 8 equal bundles (about 6-8 beans per bundle). On a clean surface, lay out a slice of bacon and place a sprig of rosemary at one end. Place a green bean bundle on top of the rosemary and carefully wrap the bacon around the beans and rosemary to secure them together.
3. Season and Bake:
Place the bacon-wrapped bundles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Drizzle them lightly with olive oil, then sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the bundles. If you like a little sweetness, add some brown sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup on each bundle.
Bake the bundles in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the green beans are tender. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent burning.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the bundles from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm as a tasty and fresh side dish that everyone will love!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before assembling. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture, which can make the bacon soggy.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the bundles up to the wrapping step and refrigerate them overnight. When ready to eat, bake straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to ensure bacon crisps fully.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and bacon is crispy again.
Can I Use Other Herbs or Meats?
Absolutely! Thyme or sage work nicely instead of rosemary. For meat, try prosciutto or turkey bacon as tasty alternatives to regular bacon.
