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Crack Green Beans

Crack green beans are baked green beans with a sticky brown sugar soy glaze and crispy bacon. After a quick blanch, the beans bake uncovered until caramelized and glossy.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 360
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Green beans
  • 2 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
Bacon
  • 8 bacon, chopped
Glaze
  • 0.5 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 0.25 cup butter, melted
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 4 garlic, minced
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper

Equipment

  • 1 sheet pan

Method
 

Prep and cook the beans
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Blanch the green beans for 3 minutes in boiling water, then drain.
  2. Cook the bacon until mostly crisp, then drain it on paper towels. Set aside the bacon while you prep the glaze.
Assemble and bake
  1. Place the green beans in a 9x13-inch baking dish and top with the cooked bacon. Spread the beans into an even layer so the glaze can cling.
  2. Whisk the brown sugar, melted butter, soy sauce, minced garlic, and black pepper until combined. Pour the glaze over the beans so they’re mostly covered.
  3. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes at 350°F, stirring once. Stop when the glaze is sticky and caramelized, with a glossy brown coating.

Notes

For the crispiest bacon topping, drain it well on paper towels before using. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; reheat in a 300°F oven until warm and glazed. Freezing is not recommended because the beans can soften. For a lower-sodium option, use reduced-sodium soy sauce.