Bacon wrapped green beans are the kind of dish that instantly elevates your dinner spread. With tender-crisp green beans bundled in smoky, salty bacon and often finished with a touch of sweetness, they strike the perfect balance between indulgent and fresh. Whether you serve them as a Thanksgiving side, a barbecue favorite, or a dinner party showstopper, these green bean bundles are a crowd-pleaser every time.
This guide covers everything you need to know—from choosing the best beans to baking, grilling, or air frying—plus flavor variations, make-ahead tips, and what to pair them with.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Elegant Yet Easy – A dish that looks fancy but is surprisingly simple to make.
Flavor Explosion – Smoky bacon, crisp green beans, and a sweet-savory glaze.
Perfect Portioning – Bundles make for attractive and easy-to-serve side portions.
Versatile Cooking Methods – Bake, grill, or air fry based on your kitchen setup.
Holiday & Weeknight Friendly – Just as great for a festive table as a weekday meal.
What Are Bacon Wrapped Green Beans?
Bacon wrapped green beans are made by bundling a small group of trimmed green beans together and wrapping them in a slice of bacon. The bundles are then baked or grilled until the bacon is crisp and the beans are tender. A glaze—usually sweet, tangy, or garlicky—is often added to boost flavor.
This dish has its roots in Southern cooking but has become a staple in kitchens across the country because of its crowd-pleasing appeal.
Ingredients List
Main Ingredients:
1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
8–10 slices of bacon (thin-cut works best)
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
Optional Glaze:
2 tablespoons brown sugar or maple syrup
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon garlic powder or minced garlic
A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for heat (optional)
Timing & Servings
Prep Time: 15–20 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: 35–45 minutes
Servings: 4–6 people (8–10 bundles)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Bacon Wrapped Green Beans
Step 1: Prep the Green Beans
Wash and trim the ends of the green beans.
Blanch beans in boiling water for 3–4 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath.
Drain and pat dry. This helps keep the beans vibrant and crisp-tender.
Step 2: Season the Beans
Toss the beans with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings.
Divide into bundles of 6–8 beans each, depending on their size.
Step 3: Wrap with Bacon
Wrap one slice of bacon around each bundle, starting at one end and spiraling to the other.
Secure with a toothpick or place seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 4: Add Glaze (Optional)
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, vinegar, and garlic.
Brush lightly over each bacon wrap before baking for added flavor and shine.
Oven-Baked Method
Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil.
Arrange green bean bundles in a single layer.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until bacon is crisp and beans are tender.
Broil for 1–2 minutes if you want extra crispness.
Air Fryer Instructions
Preheat air fryer to 390°F (199°C).
Place bundles in a single layer in the basket.
Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping once halfway through.
Grilling Instructions
Preheat grill to medium heat (350–375°F).
Grill bundles over indirect heat for 20 minutes, turning occasionally.
Move to direct heat for the last 2 minutes to crisp the bacon.
Flavor Variations
Sweet Maple Glaze
Brush bundles with maple syrup + black pepper before baking for a sweet-savory treat.
Garlic Parmesan
Sprinkle grated parmesan and garlic powder after cooking for a rich finish.
Spicy Kick
Add sriracha, cayenne, or crushed red pepper flakes to the glaze.
Asian-Inspired
Use a glaze of soy sauce, honey, and ginger for a sweet umami variation.
What to Serve With Bacon Wrapped Green Beans
These bundles are incredibly versatile. Here are some meal ideas:
Holiday Roasts – Turkey, ham, or prime rib
Weeknight Proteins – Grilled chicken, pork chops, or meatloaf
Hearty Comfort Food – Mashed potatoes, mac and cheese
Fresh Sides – Garden salad, rice pilaf, or cornbread
Tips for Success
Use thin-cut bacon to ensure it crisps before the beans overcook.
Blanching beans before wrapping helps them stay green and tender.
Secure tightly with a toothpick or place seam-side down to prevent unwrapping.
Allow bacon to partially cook before wrapping for a crispier result, if desired.
Don’t overcrowd the pan—leave space so bacon crisps evenly.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Make Ahead
Blanch green beans and wrap with bacon up to 1 day ahead.
Store covered in the fridge, and bake just before serving.
Leftovers
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispness.
Freezing
Freeze uncooked bundles on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag.
Cook directly from frozen, adding 5–7 extra minutes.
Nutrition Overview (Per Bundle, Approximate)
Calories: 120
Protein: 5g
Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 350mg
A good low-carb, gluten-free side dish that fits into many diets, especially when glaze is omitted.
FAQs
Can I use frozen green beans?
Fresh is best, but if using frozen, make sure they are completely thawed and patted dry before wrapping.
Can I skip the blanching step?
Yes, but your beans may be slightly firmer and less vibrant in color.
What if my bacon isn’t getting crispy?
Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking, or cook bacon partially beforehand.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—this recipe scales well. Use multiple baking sheets if needed and rotate halfway through baking.
Can I add cheese?
Yes! Sprinkle parmesan or shredded cheese over the bundles in the last few minutes of baking.
Conclusion
Bacon wrapped green beans are the kind of side dish that feels both comforting and refined. They offer everything: texture, flavor, presentation, and ease. Whether you’re making a weeknight dinner a little more exciting or planning a memorable holiday meal, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
From customizable seasonings and glazes to flexible cooking methods, you’ll find yourself coming back to this dish again and again. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a staple at your table.