Garlic Butter Green Beans

Name: Garlic Butter Green Beans
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Highlighted under: Home Healthy Meals Collection

I absolutely love making Garlic Butter Green Beans as a quick and delightful side dish. The combination of fresh green beans sautéed in rich butter with garlic is simply irresistible. This recipe is perfect for bringing out the natural flavors of the beans, and it pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, these green beans always steal the spotlight on my dinner table, and they only take a few minutes to prepare!

Created by

Ophelia Turner

Last updated on 2026-02-08T05:52:35.527Z

When I first tried Garlic Butter Green Beans, I was amazed by how simple and delicious they turned out. I didn't expect the garlic to have such a profound impact on the flavor of the green beans, bringing a savory and buttery warmth that made an ordinary vegetable come alive.

One tip I learned to elevate this dish is to add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving. It brightens up the entire dish, balancing the richness of the garlic butter and enhancing the green beans' freshness. It’s a little addition that makes a big difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory garlic aroma that fills the kitchen
Quick to prepare, ready in just 20 minutes
Versatile side dish that complements any main course

Mastering the Blanching Technique

Blanching green beans is a crucial step to maintain their vibrant color and crisp texture. When you add the trimmed green beans to boiling salted water, make sure the water is at a rolling boil to cook them evenly. Aim for about 3 minutes; the beans should turn bright green but remain crisp. If overcooked, they'll become mushy. The immediate transfer to ice water will halt cooking, ensuring they retain their fresh crunch.

Time management is key during the blanching process. Prepare the ice water in advance, so you can quickly transfer the beans once they reach the desired tenderness. This technique not only helps preserve color but also enhances the overall presentation of your dish, making the green beans more appealing on the plate.

Variations and Flavor Enhancements

While the classic garlic butter version is undeniably delicious, consider exploring different flavor profiles by incorporating ingredients like crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or toasted nuts for added texture. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or parsley after cooking can elevate the dish further, bringing in brightness that complements the garlic and butter richness.

For a low-carb or dairy-free alternative, try sautéing the beans in olive oil instead of butter and replace minced garlic with garlic powder. This maintains the garlicky flavor while accommodating dietary restrictions. Additionally, adding a splash of soy sauce can introduce a savory umami note that pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of the beans.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Garlic Butter Green Beans:

Ingredients

1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

With the ingredients ready, let’s move on to the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Garlic Butter Green Beans:

Blanch the Green Beans

In a large pot of boiling salted water, add the green beans and cook for about 3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.

Sauté with Garlic

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Combine and Season

Add the drained green beans to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.

Finish and Serve

Remove from heat, add lemon juice if using, and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Green Beans!

Your Garlic Butter Green Beans are now ready to impress!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding crushed red pepper flakes along with the garlic. It adds a pleasant kick that pairs beautifully with the richness of the butter.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning ahead, you can blanch the green beans a day in advance. Once cooled in ice water, drain them completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat them in the skillet with butter and garlic for approximately 5-7 minutes. This not only saves time but also helps the flavors meld beautifully.

Leftover garlic butter green beans can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat for a quick warm-up. Avoid microwaving, as this can lead to overcooked beans. Adding a slight drizzle of fresh butter or olive oil during reheating can help restore their glossy finish.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic butter green beans make an excellent side dish alongside roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a hearty steak. Their buttery, garlicky flavor profile complements various proteins, making them a versatile addition to your meal repertoire. You could also serve them as part of a holiday spread where rich flavors abound, providing a refreshing contrast.

For a more casual approach, enjoy these green beans tossed in a salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette. The contrast between the creamy garlic butter and crisp greens can provide a delightful balance. Garnish with parmesan cheese shavings or sliced almonds to add nuts and saltiness that enhance the overall taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans! Just blanch them for a shorter time, about 2 minutes, before sautéing.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the butter with vegan butter or olive oil for a plant-based version of this dish.

→ What can I serve with Garlic Butter Green Beans?

These green beans pair well with grilled chicken, steak, salmon, or as part of a vegetarian meal with grains.