Our Crack Green Beans recipe is a delicious twist on a traditional green bean casserole. And it's incredibly easy to make.
We combine canned green beans, cranberries, and crispy bacon, toss it in a sweet and savory sauce, and finish it with sliced almonds.
Why This Holiday Crack Beans Recipe Works
EASY TO PREPARE - Most ingredients are pantry staples, making it hassle-free to whip up.
ECONOMICAL - This dish is just as suitable for a casual family dinner as it is for special occasions such as Thanksgiving or Christmas.
HEALTHY TWIST - Adding green beans and almonds adds a nutritional punch.
Ingredients
Please check the recipe card below for a detailed, printable ingredient list.
GREEN BEANS - Using canned green beans is convenient and quick without compromising taste.
BACON - Adds a smoky, savory crunch, complementing the sweetness of other ingredients. I recommend using thick-cut bacon.
BROWN SUGAR - Offers a mild sweetness that balances the savory components.
BUTTER - Enhances the rich, creamy texture of the sauce.
SOY SAUCE - Imparts a deep umami flavor, elevating the overall taste.
GARLIC POWDER - A pinch brings a subtle warmth and aroma.
DRIED CRANBERRIES - Introduce a tart sweetness that compliments the bacon.
SLIVERED ALMONDS - Add a crunchy texture.
ORANGE ZEST - Freshens up the dish with a hint of citrus brightness.
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GREEN BEANS WITH BACON - Oma's authentic German Cucumber Salad is incredibly refreshing and made with 4 simple ingredients.
How To Make Holiday Crack Green Beans
Please check the printable recipe card below for more detailed instructions.
- Mix drained green beans with cooked bacon and cranberries in a casserole dish.
- Cook sauce with brown sugar, butter, soy sauce, and garlic powder. Pour sauce over green bean mixture.
- Top with almonds and sprinkle with orange zest.
- Bake at 375º Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes.
Recipe Success Tips
QUALITY BACON - Opt for good quality bacon for optimal taste and texture.
DRAIN THE BEANS - Ensure canned beans are properly drained to prevent a soggy dish.
ADJUST SWEETNESS - Depending on personal preference, you can tweak the amount of brown sugar.
Serving Suggestions
ROASTED MEAT - Pairs beautifully with roast chicken or turkey.
MASHED POTATOES - Complements the creamy texture and rich flavors of mashed potatoes.
SWEET POTATOES - Let its savory-sweet profile balance the sweetness of candied yams or sweet potato casserole.
Leftovers
STORE - After cooling, place any leftover Crack Green Beans in a container with a secure lid and refrigerate. They'll stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days.
FREEZE - Let the Crack Green Beans cool down completely after cooking. Once cool, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag. Seal the bag tightly and place it in the freezer, where the beans can be stored for up to three months.
REHEAT - When you're ready to enjoy again, warm them in the microwave at a medium setting until heated through, or place them in an oven preheated to 350º F and bake until they're hot throughout.
More Hearty and Delicious Side Dish Recipes
HONEY-ROASTED SWEET POTATOES - Sweet potatoes glazed with honey and baked until tender.
ROASTED CARROTS AND POTATOES - Carrots and potatoes seasoned and roasted for a simple, savory side.
MASHED SWEET POTATOES - Creamy, mashed sweet potatoes with a touch of sweetness.
CANDIED CARROTS - Carrots cooked in a sweet syrup until they're sticky and tender.
MUSHROOM PIE - A savory pie filled with mushrooms and cheese, baked to perfection.
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Crack Green Beans
Ingredients
- 5 cans
(14.5 ounces)
green beans drained - 1 pound bacon cooked and crumbled
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup butter unsalted
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup sliced almonds
- 1 orange zest only
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375° Fahrenheit.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Let it cool, and crumble it into small pieces.
- Combine green beans, bacon, cranberries in a 9x13 casserole dish.
- In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, butter, soy sauce, and garlic powder. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved and the sauce is well combined.
- Pour the sauce over the green beans. Sprinkle the almonds over the top for added crunch. Grate the orange zest evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, just until it's heated through.