Green Bean Bundles are a simple, delicious side dish that brings together fresh green beans wrapped up with crispy bacon and a touch of seasoning. The crunchy bacon and tender beans make a great combo that’s both tasty and satisfying without being complicated.
I love making these bundles because they feel a little special but are so easy to put together. Wrapping the green beans in bacon is a fun step that always gets compliments, and it makes me feel like I’m adding a bit of extra care to an everyday vegetable. Plus, bacon always makes everything better in my book!
These bundles are perfect for holidays or family dinners, and I like serving them right alongside the main dish to add a little pop of flavor and color. They’re a nice change from plain steamed green beans and a great way to get everyone excited about eating vegetables. I’m pretty sure they’ll disappear fast from the plate!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans should be crisp and bright green. Snap off the ends to remove any tough pieces. If fresh green beans aren’t available, you can use frozen ones—just thaw and pat dry well before wrapping.
Bacon: Bacon adds smoky flavor and keeps the bundles together. You can substitute turkey bacon for a leaner option, though it might not get as crispy. For a vegetarian choice, try using thinly sliced smoked tempeh or coconut bacon.
Olive Oil: A light toss in olive oil helps season the beans and keeps them tender. You can swap this for avocado or vegetable oil if preferred.
Parmesan & Panko: These add a crunchy topping once baked. If you’re avoiding dairy, skip the cheese or try a dairy-free alternative. You could also use crushed nuts or seeds for a nutty crunch instead of panko.
How Do You Wrap Bacon Around Green Beans Without It Unraveling?
Wrapping bacon tightly keeps the bundles intact while cooking. Here’s how to do it well:
- Make small bundles of green beans, about a handful each, so they’re easy to manage.
- Use half a slice of bacon per bundle — this size wraps just right without too much overlap.
- Start on one end and wrap bacon snugly around the middle, slightly overlapping to secure.
- Place bundles seam-side down on the baking sheet to keep bacon from unwrapping as it crisps.
- You can also secure them with a toothpick if needed, but usually, tight wrapping plus seam-side down works well.
This method helps bacon stay in place and get crispy all over, making your bundles look great and taste fantastic!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – a rimmed one catches bacon drips and makes cleanup easy.
- Parchment paper or foil – helps prevent sticking and keeps the pan clean.
- Tongs – great for tossing green beans and handling hot bundles safely.
- Kitchen scissors or knife – handy for cutting bacon slices in half evenly.
- Mixing bowl – to toss green beans with oil and seasonings before bundling.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try turkey bacon for a lighter, less fatty option that still adds smoky flavor.
- Add slivered almonds or chopped walnuts to the topping for a crunchy twist.
- Mix in some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary with the green beans for extra aroma.
- Swap Parmesan for shredded cheddar or Gruyère to change up the cheesy flavor.
Green Bean Bundles Wrapped in Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 6 slices of bacon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you should allow around 35 to 40 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and impressive side dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare for Baking:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil — this will make cleaning up much easier after cooking.
2. Prep the Green Beans:
Trim the green beans by snapping or cutting off their ends. Rinse them well and dry thoroughly so they roast nicely instead of steaming.
3. Season and Assemble:
Toss the green beans with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using. Divide them evenly into six bundles, each about a handful. Cut the bacon slices in half to get 12 smaller strips.
4. Wrap and Bake:
Wrap each green bean bundle tightly with a half slice of bacon so the bacon holds the beans firmly. Place each bundle seam-side down on your lined baking sheet. If you like, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese on top for a crunchy finish.
5. Cook and Serve:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the green beans are tender but still have a slight crunch. Remove from oven, allow to cool for a few minutes, and drizzle any bacon fat left on the tray over the bundles for extra flavor before serving.
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to remove excess moisture before wrapping them with bacon.
How Should I Store Leftover Green Bean Bundles?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep the bacon crispy.
Can I Make Green Bean Bundles Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the bundles and wrap them with bacon, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon in This Recipe?
If you prefer a vegetarian option or want to reduce fat, try using smoked tempeh strips or coconut bacon. Keep in mind the cooking time may vary, and the flavor will be different but still delicious!
