These Copycat Texas Roadhouse Green Beans are tender and packed with flavor! Made with fresh green beans, garlic, and a hint of seasoning, they hit that perfect balance of tasty and healthy.
Whenever I make these, my family can’t get enough. Honestly, they might be the star of the meal! 🥳 Serve them with your favorite dish, and watch everyone go back for seconds.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Green Beans: The star of this recipe! Look for vibrant, firm green beans with no blemishes. If you can’t find fresh, frozen green beans work too; just adjust the cooking time slightly.
Bacon: Chop up regular bacon for that smoky flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon is a good substitute. For vegetarian choices, consider using smoked paprika or liquid smoke for flavor without the meat.
Onion: A medium onion adds flavor and sweetness. If you prefer milder flavors, try using scallions or shallots instead. They’ll provide a lovely taste without being overwhelming.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that wonderful fragrance. If you’re short on time, jarred minced garlic works in a pinch, though I always recommend fresh for the best flavor.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth keeps the sodium level in check. Vegetable broth can be an excellent substitute if you’re looking for a vegetarian-friendly dish.
How Do I Cook Bacon Perfectly?
Cooking bacon to crispy perfection really enhances the flavor of this dish. Here’s how to get it just right.
- Start with a cold skillet and lay out the bacon slices. This helps render the fat slowly and evenly.
- Cook over medium heat, turning occasionally until it’s crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
- When done, use tongs to place the bacon on paper towels to absorb excess grease.
What’s the Best Way to Sauté Onions and Garlic?
Getting nice caramelization on onions and perfectly cooked garlic enhances the richness of the dish. Here’s a simple way:
- Use the same skillet you cooked the bacon in; this adds flavor!
- Heat the skillet to medium, then add the onions. Cook them for 3-4 minutes until they soften.
- Add the garlic for the last minute to avoid burning it. Stir well so it doesn’t stick.
These techniques will help ensure you get vibrant flavors in your green beans! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Copycat Texas Roadhouse Green Beans
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Green Beans:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to cook. You’ll be spending some time sautéing and simmering, but the end result will be delicious and worth every minute!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Green Beans:
Start by rinsing the fresh green beans under cold water. Make sure to trim the ends off the beans. Once you’re done, set them aside for later.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet, place the chopped bacon over medium heat. Cook the bacon until it gets crispy; this should take about 5-7 minutes. Then, carefully remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to drain any excess grease. Leave about 1-2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet for flavor.
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
With the skillet still on medium heat, add the diced onion. Sauté the onion for about 3-4 minutes until it turns translucent. Next, add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for an additional minute, being careful not to let it burn.
4. Add the Green Beans:
Now it’s time to add the fresh green beans to the skillet! Stir them in and let them cook for about 5 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally so they cook evenly.
5. Add Chicken Broth and Seasonings:
Pour in the chicken broth, and then add the salt, black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes (if you like some heat), Worcestershire sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Mix everything together well.
6. Simmer the Green Beans:
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the skillet with a lid. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes until the green beans become tender and delicious.
7. Finish the Dish:
Remove the lid, and stir in the crispy bacon. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes so that all the flavors can meld together beautifully.
8. Serve:
Transfer the luscious green beans to a serving dish. Enjoy them alongside your favorite main courses, and savor the flavors just like you would at Texas Roadhouse!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can! If using frozen green beans, there’s no need to thaw them first. Just add them directly to the skillet after sautéing the onion and garlic. You may want to reduce the cooking time slightly since frozen beans cook faster than fresh ones.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you’re looking for a meat-free option, you can use smoked paprika or liquid smoke for flavor. Additionally, you can sauté some mushrooms to add a umami kick or use plant-based bacon if you prefer a vegetarian version.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Absolutely! If you want a milder dish, you can omit the crushed red pepper flakes. For an extra kick, feel free to increase the amount or add in a dash of your favorite hot sauce when serving!
How Do I Store Leftover Green Beans?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if they seem dry.
