Overview of the Recipe
Crack Green Beans is a delicious side dish that combines tender green beans with a sweet and savory sauce made from brown sugar, butter, soy sauce, and garlic powder. Topped with crumbled turkey bacon, this dish is baked to perfection, making it a perfect accompaniment to any meal. The flavors are a delightful balance of sweet, salty, and umami, making these green beans a crowd-pleaser.
History and Origin
The term “crack” in this recipe’s name likely refers to how addictive these green beans can be, with the sauce’s irresistible blend of flavors. While the exact origin of this dish is unclear, it has become a popular comfort food in American households, particularly in the South. This dish is a modern twist on traditional green bean casseroles, offering a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from classic recipes.
Ingredients
- 5 cans (14.5 oz each) green beans, drained (or 4 (12-ounce) bags of thawed frozen green beans, or fresh green beans)
- 12 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 7 teaspoons soy sauce
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature when you are ready to bake the green beans, allowing them to cook evenly.
2. Prepare the Green Beans
- Drain the Green Beans: If using canned green beans, drain them thoroughly to remove any excess liquid. If you prefer fresh or frozen green beans, make sure to blanch them briefly in boiling water before draining. This step helps to retain their vibrant color and crisp texture.
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the drained green beans into a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading them out evenly. This allows the sauce to coat all the beans uniformly during baking.
3. Add the Turkey Bacon
- Cook and Crumble the Turkey Bacon: Cook 12 slices of turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
- Sprinkle Over Green Beans: Evenly sprinkle the crumbled turkey bacon over the green beans in the baking dish. The turkey bacon adds a savory, smoky flavor that complements the sweetness of the sauce.
4. Prepare the Crack Sauce
- Mix the Sauce Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine 2/3 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of melted butter, 7 teaspoons of soy sauce, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of garlic powder. Whisk the ingredients together until the brown sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Pour Over Green Beans: Pour the crack sauce evenly over the green beans and turkey bacon. The sauce should coat the beans and bacon, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor.
5. Bake the Green Beans
- Bake in Preheated Oven: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes. The sauce will caramelize as it bakes, infusing the green beans with its sweet and savory flavors.
- Toss Before Serving: After baking, remove the dish from the oven and gently toss the green beans to ensure they are evenly coated with the sauce. This step ensures that all the green beans are flavorful and moist.
6. Serve the Dish
- Serve Warm: Serve the Crack Green Beans warm, either directly from the baking dish or transferred to a serving bowl. This dish is a perfect side for roasted meats, poultry, or as part of a holiday spread.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Crack Green Beans are versatile and pair well with a variety of main dishes:
- Roast Chicken: The savory notes of roast chicken complement the sweet and salty flavors of the green beans.
- Grilled Beef: The umami-rich sauce enhances the taste of grilled beef, creating a satisfying meal.
- Mashed Potatoes: Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes for a complete comfort food experience.
Variations of the Recipe
- Spicy Crack Green Beans: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a hint of heat.
- Honey Garlic Green Beans: Replace the brown sugar with honey and increase the garlic powder to 2 teaspoons for a sweeter, garlicky twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the turkey bacon or replace it with a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian version of this dish.
Health Benefits Notes
Green beans are a healthy and nutritious vegetable rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as dietary fiber. By using turkey bacon instead of traditional bacon, this recipe reduces the amount of saturated fat, making it a slightly healthier option. The dish is also lower in calories, making it a more balanced side dish when enjoyed in moderation.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare Crack Green Beans ahead of time. Assemble the dish as directed, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.
Q: Can I use fresh green beans? A: Absolutely! Fresh green beans will work well in this recipe. Just be sure to blanch them first to maintain their color and texture.
Q: What can I use as a substitute for turkey bacon? A: If you prefer not to use turkey bacon, you can substitute with chicken ham or a plant-based bacon alternative.
Conclusion
Crack Green Beans are a delightful, easy-to-make side dish that’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. With their addictive sweet and savory sauce and the satisfying crunch of turkey bacon, these green beans are perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday feasts. This recipe’s simplicity and the rich flavors it delivers make it a go-to for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic preparation or experiment with variations, Crack Green Beans are bound to be a hit with everyone who tries them. Enjoy this delicious dish with your favorite mains, and watch as it quickly becomes a staple in your meal rotation.