Canned green beans are a pantry staple that can be used in a variety of delicious and easy-to-make dishes. Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish or a main course, these versatile beans can add flavor, texture, and nutrition to your meal. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the best ways to use canned green beans.
From classic comfort foods like green bean casserole with crispy onions to international-inspired dishes like spicy sautéed canned green beans, there’s something for everyone in this collection of tasty and easy-to-make recipes. So why not start experimenting with your canned green beans today? Whether you’re a busy home cook or a culinary newbie, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative in the kitchen.
Green bean casserole with crispy onions
This comforting casserole is a staple of American comfort food, featuring tender green beans, creamy sauce, and crispy onions. Perfect for holidays or family gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup French-fried onions
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté green beans and onion in butter until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, combine milk, cream of mushroom soup, and black pepper. Pour over green bean mixture and stir to combine.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle French-fried onions on top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic butter canned green beans
Elevate your green bean game with this simple and flavorful recipe that adds a rich, savory twist to store-bought canned beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can of green beans, drained
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
4. Pour the green beans into the saucepan with the garlic butter mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the green beans to a baking dish and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Southern-style canned green beans with bacon
Classic Southern-style canned green beans get a smoky twist with the addition of crispy bacon. This simple recipe adds a depth of flavor and texture to a comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can green beans, drained
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
3. Remove the cooked bacon from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels.
4. Leave the grease in the skillet and add the butter. Melt the butter over low heat.
5. Add the drained green beans to the skillet and stir until they are well coated with the butter and bacon drippings.
6. Transfer the green bean mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Sprinkle the cooked bacon pieces evenly over the top of the green beans.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the green beans are tender and the bacon is crispy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick and easy green bean salad
A refreshing and light salad perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck gathering, this green bean salad is quick to prepare and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion (optional)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Blanch the green beans for 3-5 minutes, or until slightly tender.
3. Drain and immediately submerge in an ice bath to stop cooking.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the chopped red onion and crumbled feta cheese (if using) to the green beans.
6. Pour the dressing over the green bean mixture and toss to combine.
7. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Canned green beans with almonds
Elevate a simple can of green beans with the crunch of toasted almonds and a hint of garlic. This side dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can green beans, drained
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add green beans to the skillet and stir to combine with garlic and butter. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Spread almonds on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. Remove green bean mixture from heat and stir in toasted almonds. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy sautéed canned green beans
Add a kick to your usual green bean side dish with this simple and flavorful recipe. This spicy twist is perfect for those who like a little heat in their meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can of green beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the green beans to the skillet and stir to combine with the spice mixture.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the green beans are heated through and slightly caramelized.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Green bean and potato stir-fry
A classic combination of green beans and potatoes gets a flavorful boost with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce in this easy-to-make stir-fry. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the potatoes and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
4. Add the green beans and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
5. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Cheesy green bean bake
A comforting and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine green beans, cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, and milk.
3. Stir until the green beans are evenly coated with the mixture.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Dot the top with melted butter.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the green beans are tender and the cheese is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Green beans with mushrooms and onions
This classic recipe combines the natural sweetness of green beans with the earthy flavors of sautéed mushrooms and caramelized onions, creating a delicious side dish that pairs well with any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch green beans for 5 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start browning (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and add chopped onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are caramelized and golden brown (about 10-12 minutes).
4. Add cooked green beans to the skillet and stir to combine with mushrooms and onions.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Lemon garlic canned green beans
Elevate a classic side dish with the bright flavors of lemon and garlic. This easy recipe adds a burst of citrus and savory goodness to canned green beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can green beans, drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Add the drained green beans to the pan, stirring to combine with the garlic and oil.
4. Pour in the lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes or until the green beans are tender and coated in the sauce.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Green bean and tomato medley
This vibrant medley is a perfect side dish or light lunch option, showcasing the natural sweetness of green beans and tomatoes. With minimal preparation time and effortless cooking, this recipe is ideal for busy days.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place green beans on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the green beans and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Roast for 12-15 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Meanwhile, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced tomatoes and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their juices and start to soften.
7. Combine roasted green beans and cooked tomatoes in a serving dish. Garnish with minced garlic (if using). Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green beans with caramelized onions
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of green beans with the deep flavor of caramelized onions, creating a delicious side dish that pairs well with many meals. With just a few ingredients and some gentle cooking, you can elevate your greens game in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re dark golden brown and caramelized.
3. Add green beans to the skillet with the onions and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until they start to soften.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until green beans are tender but still crisp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle on top and return to the oven for an additional minute.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Green bean and corn succotash
This succotash recipe is a twist on the classic dish, adding green beans for added crunch and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
– 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add green beans and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in corn kernels and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until the liquid has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green beans with crispy bacon bits
This classic combination of tender green beans and crispy bacon bits is a simple yet impressive side dish perfect for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying the perfect harmony of flavors and textures in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 clove garlic, minced (for added flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Lay the green beans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. Meanwhile, cook the bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
6. Remove from heat and chop into small bits.
7. Toss cooked green beans with chopped bacon, olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green bean and ham soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Green Bean and Ham Soup, perfect for a chilly day or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the green beans, ham, chicken broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the green beans are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green beans with sesame soy glaze
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of green beans with the nutty flavor of sesame and the savory goodness of soy sauce, creating a deliciously balanced side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon tahini
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add green beans to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, tahini, ginger, and sesame seeds.
5. Pour the glaze over the green beans and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green bean and quinoa pilaf
A flavorful and nutritious side dish that combines the earthy taste of quinoa with the crunchy sweetness of green beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (for added flavor)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Add green beans to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork and add it to the skillet. Stir to combine with the green bean mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using feta cheese, crumble it on top of the pilaf.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green beans with herb butter sauce
This recipe is a simple yet flavorful way to prepare green beans, perfect as a side dish or as part of a larger meal. The herb butter sauce adds a rich and aromatic flavor that complements the natural taste of the green beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the green beans for 4-5 minutes, or until they are tender but still crisp.
2. Drain the green beans and immediately plunge them into an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
3. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic, parsley, and chives. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the herbs are fragrant.
4. Season the herb butter with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the green beans hot, topped with the herb butter sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get creative with canned green beans! From comforting casseroles to quick and easy salads, we’ve rounded up 18 delicious recipes that showcase the versatility of this convenient ingredient. Try adding crispy onions to your green bean casserole, or giving garlic butter a twist with some sautéed green beans. There are also plenty of options for Southern-style comfort food, healthy stir-fries, and savory soups. Whether you’re looking for a side dish or a main event, these recipes are sure to inspire your next meal.
