Texas Roadhouse Green Beans

You know that one side dish that makes you forget everything else on your plate? These Texas Roadhouse green beans are it.

I’m talking tender, buttery beans with a smoky kick from the bacon and a touch of sweetness from brown sugar.

The best part is how simple they are to whip up, yet they feel so special. Trust me, everyone will beg for the recipe.

Skip the wait at the restaurant and create this steakhouse classic in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love These Texas Roadhouse Green Beans

Rich and Indulgent: This dish transforms ordinary canned or fresh green beans into a rich and indulgent side with layers of flavor.

Budget-Friendly: The recipe is a restaurant-quality side dish that costs a fraction of dining out.

Comfort Food: With crispy bacon, tender green beans, and a rich, flavorful sauce, this dish is a guaranteed hit for any gathering.

Time-Saver: Ready in just 20 minutes, these green beans deliver the authentic Texas Roadhouse taste without the wait.

Ingredients

• Green Beans: The foundation of the dish. Canned green beans are traditional for Texas Roadhouse-style recipes.
  
• Bacon: The key flavor enhancer adds smokiness and richness. Thick-cut or smoked bacon is recommended.
  
• Onion and Garlic: These aromatics build a flavor base for the green beans.
  
• Chicken Broth: It adds moisture and depth to the green beans, helping to create a flavorful cooking liquid. Low-sodium varieties are recommended.
  
• Unsalted Butter: It provides richness and helps create a smooth, glossy finish to the green beans.
  
• Light Brown Sugar: It creates the signature Texas Roadhouse flavor profile.
  
• Soy Sauce: It adds umami and depth to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor complexity.
  
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
  
• Smoked Paprika (Optional): It adds an extra layer of smoky depth to the dish.

How to Make Texas Roadhouse Green Beans

These beans are almost as easy as ordering off a menu!

1. Prep the bacon. In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pan.

2. Saute the aromatics. Add the diced onion to the bacon grease and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Cook the green beans. If using fresh green beans, blanch them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes, then drain and add them to the skillet. If using canned green beans, simply add them directly to the skillet.

4. Add the liquid and seasonings. Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the butter, brown sugar, soy sauce, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Mix well.

5. Simmer. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for about 10 minutes. Allow the green beans to soak up the flavors. Stir occasionally.

6. Finish with bacon. Stir in the cooked bacon pieces just before serving to maintain their crispy texture.

7. Serve. Transfer the green beans to a serving dish and enjoy this delicious side with your favorite main course.

Tips for the Best Texas Roadhouse Green Beans

For the true Texas Roadhouse experience, follow these simple tips.

• Buy the best beans. Fresh green beans provide a crisp texture. But canned green beans are authentic to the Texas Roadhouse style.

• Ditch the excess liquid. When using canned beans, drain them thoroughly before adding to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.

• Prep the bacon properly. Use thick-cut smoked bacon for enhanced flavor depth. Dice it into small squares before cooking to ensure even distribution throughout the dish.

• Switch up the broth. Use a combination of ham base and chicken base instead of plain chicken broth for that authentic restaurant taste.

• Add some smokiness. A pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke can elevate the flavor.

• Try a timing technique. Let the finished dish rest off the heat for about 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to fully develop.

How to Store

Leftover green beans are perfect for enjoying throughout the week. Here’s how to store them.

To Store: Transfer leftover green beans to an air-tight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

To Freeze: Allow the green beans to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 6 months, and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

To Reheat: Warm the green beans in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth if needed to prevent drying. Or, microwave them in a covered dish for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.