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for a vegetarian version)
How to Make Copycat Texas Roadhouse Green Beans:
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until it becomes crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Once crispy, remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside. Keep the rendered bacon fat in the skillet, as it will be used to flavor the green beans.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion for about 3-4 minutes, until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
Step 3: Add the Green Beans
Now, it’s time to add the fresh green beans to the skillet. Stir them well to coat the beans with the flavorful bacon fat, garlic, and onion. Allow the green beans to cook for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften, but still retain some of their crispness.
Step 4: Add the Seasonings and Broth
Pour in the chicken broth, and add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. If you’d like a little extra sweetness to balance the savory flavors, add 1 tablespoon of brown sugar. Stir to combine and bring everything to a simmer. Allow the mixture to cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the green beans are tender and have absorbed the flavors.
Step 5: Finish with Bacon and Serve
Once the green beans are cooked to your desired tenderness, stir the crispy bacon bits back into the dish. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed – adding a bit more salt, pepper, or sugar for balance.
Serve your Copycat Texas Roadhouse Green Beans immediately as a perfect side dish for your favorite main course!
Why This Recipe Works:
- Savory and Smoky Bacon: The bacon fat infuses the green beans with a rich, smoky flavor that’s impossible to resist. The crispy bacon bits add texture and even more flavor, making the dish even more satisfying.
- Tender but Crisp Green Beans: By cooking the green beans with chicken broth, you’ll end up with perfectly tender beans that still have a slight bite, which is just how Texas Roadhouse serves them.
- Balanced Flavors: The combination of garlic, onions, and broth creates a base that complements the natural flavor of the green beans, while the optional brown sugar helps balance the savoriness with a touch of sweetness.
Serving Suggestions:
These Copycat Texas Roadhouse Green Beans are incredibly versatile and pair well with almost anything. Here are a few ideas for what to serve them with:
- Grilled Steak or Chicken: The savory green beans are the perfect side dish to serve alongside a juicy steak or grilled chicken breast.
- BBQ Ribs: The smoky flavors of the bacon and the richness of the green beans complement the bold flavors of BBQ ribs.
- Roasted Salmon: These green beans are a great balance for the light, tender texture of roasted salmon.
- Mashed Potatoes: Add some creamy mashed potatoes to complete your comforting, hearty meal!
Tips for Perfect Green Beans:
- Fresh vs. Frozen: While fresh green beans will give you the best results, frozen green beans can work too if fresh ones aren’t available. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before using.
- Adjust Cooking Time: If you like your green beans a little more tender, simply cook them longer. For more bite, reduce the cook time a bit.
- Make Ahead: This recipe can be made ahead of time. Cook the beans and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop when you’re ready to serve.
Conclusion:
With this Copycat Texas Roadhouse Green Beans recipe, you can recreate the savory, flavorful side dish right in your own kitchen. The combination of fresh green beans, crispy bacon, sautéed onions, and garlic creates a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Plus, it’s simple to make and only takes about 20-25 minutes! Whether you’re serving them with a weeknight dinner or for a special occasion, these green beans are sure to be a hit. Give them a try – you’ll be hooked!
