Texas Roadhouse Green Beans

Y’all, I’ve got to tell ya, there’s something downright magical about a side dish that steals the show, and that’s exactly what Texas Roadhouse Green Beans do every single time I whip ‘em up. I first stumbled across this recipe years ago when my husband and I were on a road trip through the South, and we stopped at a Texas Roadhouse for dinner. Those green beans, simmered with smoky bacon and a hint of sweetness, were the talk of the table.

I knew right then I had to recreate these Texas Roadhouse Green Beans at home, and after a few tries, I’ve got it down pat!

Now, I’m no stranger to messing up in the kitchen (more on that later), but nailing this dish has been a game-changer for family dinners. My kids, who usually turn their noses up at anything green, actually ask for seconds of these Texas Roadhouse Green Beans. So, if you’re looking to add a little Southern comfort to your plate, stick with me, and I’ll walk you through how to make ‘em just right.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that simple ingredients can pack a punch when done well, and Texas Roadhouse Green Beans are proof of that. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try for your next meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I’ve found that Texas Roadhouse Green Beans are a total crowd-pleaser, no matter who’s sitting at my table. There’s just something about that savory, slightly sweet flavor combined with the tender-crisp texture that hooks everyone on the first bite. In my kitchen, this dish has become a go-to for busy weeknights and holiday spreads alike because it’s so darn easy to throw together.

Plus, it’s versatile enough to tweak to your liking, which I adore. Whether you’re a bacon lover like me or looking to lighten it up a bit, Texas Roadhouse Green Beans adapt without losing their charm. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll be on rotation in your home too!

Ingredients List

Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of what you’ll need to make Texas Roadhouse Green Beans that taste like the real deal. I prefer using fresh green beans whenever I can get my hands on ‘em at the farmer’s market, but canned or frozen work in a pinch too. Here’s my lineup of ingredients, with exact measurements to keep things foolproof.

• 1.5 pounds (680g) fresh green beans, trimmed and snapped into bite-sized pieces (or two 14.5 oz cans, drained, if you’re short on time)
• 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped into small bits for maximum smoky goodness
• 1 small yellow onion (about 1/2 cup or 80g), finely diced for subtle sweetness
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (I usually go for fresh over jarred for that punchy flavor)
• 1 tablespoon (12g) brown sugar, to balance the savory with a caramelized touch
• 1/2 teaspoon (3g) salt, or to taste (I start here and adjust as I go)
• 1/4 teaspoon (1g) black pepper, freshly ground if you’ve got it
• 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth, low-sodium so it doesn’t get too salty with the bacon

I usually buy my bacon from a local butcher because the thicker cut really makes a difference in Texas Roadhouse Green Beans. And don’t skimp on the brown sugar; it’s the secret to that signature taste! If you’ve got everything ready, you’re halfway to a killer side dish.

Variations

One thing I love about Texas Roadhouse Green Beans is how easy they are to switch up based on what’s in my pantry or who I’m feeding. I’ve played around with this recipe more times than I can count, and here are some of my favorite twists to keep things fresh. Whether you’re spicing it up or dialing it back, these variations on Texas Roadhouse Green Beans got you covered.

• Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch (or more!) of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce with the broth for a little heat. I tried this once for a barbecue, and my brother-in-law couldn’t stop raving.
• Garlic Lover’s Dream: Double the garlic to four cloves for an extra punchy flavor that pairs great with steak.
• Vegetarian Swap: Skip the bacon and use 2 tablespoons of olive oil plus a teaspoon of smoked paprika to mimic that smoky vibe.
• Sweet and Tangy: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar (about a tablespoon) along with the brown sugar for a zesty twist.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle in a handful of slivered almonds or chopped pecans in the last minute of cooking for texture. My kids always ask for this version!
• Herby Freshness: Mix in a teaspoon of dried thyme or a tablespoon of fresh chopped parsley at the end for an earthy note.
• Cheesy Finish: Stir in a handful of shredded cheddar just before serving for a melty, indulgent take on Texas Roadhouse Green Beans.

These tweaks let me keep Texas Roadhouse Green Beans exciting, even if I’m making ‘em every other week. Experiment and see what your crew loves best!

Servings and Timing

When I’m whipping up Texas Roadhouse Green Beans, I like to plan ahead so I’m not scrambling at the last minute. In my experience, this recipe comes together pretty quick once you’ve got your ingredients prepped. Here’s the breakdown of how long it’ll take and how many folks it’ll feed.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 6 portions

This timing for Texas Roadhouse Green Beans usually works for me, though it might take a smidge longer if I’m using fresh beans that need trimming. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a small get-together!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking, y’all! I’ve made Texas Roadhouse Green Beans so many times, I could probably do it blindfolded, and I’m thrilled to share my process with you. Follow along, and I’ll toss in a few of my tried-and-true tricks to make sure yours turn out amazing.

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

First things first, rinse and trim your fresh green beans if you’re using ‘em, snapping ‘em into 1-2 inch pieces. I like to do this while watching TV to make it less of a chore. Chop your bacon, dice that onion real fine, and mince the garlic too. Having everything ready makes the cooking part of Texas Roadhouse Green Beans a breeze.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

Grab a large skillet and toss in the chopped bacon over medium heat. Let it sizzle until it’s crispy, about 5-7 minutes, stirring now and then so it doesn’t stick. I’ve learned to keep an eye on it ‘cause burned bacon can throw off the whole vibe of Texas Roadhouse Green Beans. Once it’s done, scoop it out with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet with that glorious bacon grease (don’t drain it!), add your diced onion. Cook it for about 3-4 minutes until it’s soft and golden, then toss in the garlic for another 30 seconds. Man, that smell is everything when you’re making Texas Roadhouse Green Beans!

Step 4: Simmer the Beans

Now, add your green beans to the skillet, along with the chicken broth, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir, cover the pan, and let it simmer on low for 10-12 minutes if using fresh beans (or 5-7 if canned). I like to check ‘em halfway to make sure they’re not getting mushy; Texas Roadhouse Green Beans should have a little bite to ‘em.

Step 5: Finish with Bacon

Once the beans are tender-crisp, uncover and stir in the crispy bacon. Let it all mingle for another minute or two over low heat to soak up those flavors. And that’s it, you’ve got yourself a batch of Texas Roadhouse Green Beans ready to wow everyone at the table!

Nutritional Information

I’m not gonna lie, Texas Roadhouse Green Beans aren’t exactly a “health food,” but they’re a darn tasty way to get some veggies in. I’ve crunched the numbers (well, sorta), and here’s a rough idea of what you’re looking at per serving. Keep in mind, this is based on six portions.

• Calories: 150 per serving
• Fat: 9g
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Sodium: 380mg

For me, the indulgence of Texas Roadhouse Green Beans is worth it, especially when paired with a lean main dish. Balance is key, right?

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re watching your waistline or just wanna mix things up, I’ve got some swaps for Texas Roadhouse Green Beans that still keep the flavor on point. I’ve tried these myself on days when I’m feeling a bit more health-conscious, and they’ve worked out pretty well. Here are a few ideas to lighten up this classic side.

• Lower Fat Bacon: Swap regular bacon for turkey bacon to cut down on fat without losing too much of that smoky taste.
• No Bacon Option: Use a teaspoon of liquid smoke and a tablespoon of olive oil instead of bacon for a vegan-friendly take on Texas Roadhouse Green Beans.
• Less Sugar: Halve the brown sugar or use a natural sweetener like honey if you’re cutting back on processed stuff.
• More Veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers or carrots to bulk up Texas Roadhouse Green Beans and add extra nutrients.

These tweaks let me enjoy Texas Roadhouse Green Beans guilt-free, and I think you’ll find ‘em just as satisfying!

Serving Suggestions

I love getting creative with how I plate Texas Roadhouse Green Beans because they go with just about anything. Whether it’s a casual supper or a big ol’ holiday feast, here are some of my go-to ways to serve ‘em up. They’ve been hits at my table, and I bet they will be at yours too.

• With Steak: Pair Texas Roadhouse Green Beans with a juicy ribeye or grilled sirloin for that true steakhouse feel.
• Alongside Chicken: Serve with roasted or fried chicken for a hearty, comforting meal.
• At Potlucks: Bring a big batch of Texas Roadhouse Green Beans to share; they reheat like a dream.
• With BBQ: They’re perfect next to pulled pork or ribs for a smoky, Southern-inspired spread.

I’ve served Texas Roadhouse Green Beans at everything from backyard cookouts to Thanksgiving, and they never disappoint. What’ll you pair ‘em with?

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Alright, let’s talk about where things can go sideways with Texas Roadhouse Green Beans because, trust me, I’ve been there. I’ve made some rookie mistakes over the years, and I’m spilling the tea so you don’t have to learn the hard way. Here are the biggies to watch out for.

• Overcooking the Beans: If they’re too soft, you’ve lost that crisp bite that makes Texas Roadhouse Green Beans special. Check ‘em early!
• Burning the Bacon: I’ve done this and ended up with bitter bits that ruined the dish. Keep the heat at-cooked
• Not Enough Seasoning: Don’t skimp on salt or sugar; taste as you go, or your Texas Roadhouse Green Beans might be bland.
• Skipping the Bacon Grease: I thought I’d “healthify” it once by draining all the grease, and the flavor just wasn’t the same. Keep a bit for that authentic taste.

I’ve flubbed Texas Roadhouse Green Beans more than once, but these lessons have saved my bacon (pun intended!). Avoid these slip-ups, and you’ll be golden.

Storing Tips

I’ve found that Texas Roadhouse Green Beans keep pretty well if you’ve got leftovers, which doesn’t happen often at my house! Here’s how I store ‘em to keep that flavor intact for round two. These tips have worked for me time and again.

• Refrigerator: Store Texas Roadhouse Green Beans in an airtight container for 3-4 days. They reheat nicely on the stove or microwave.
• Freezer: Freeze ‘em for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe bag, though the texture might soften a bit.
• Reheating: Warm Texas Roadhouse Green Beans over low heat with a splash of broth to keep ‘em from drying out.

I usually polish off any extras within a day or two, but these methods help if you’re meal prepping!

Frequently Asked Questions

I’ve gotten a bunch of questions over the years about Texas Roadhouse Green Beans, so I’m tackling the most common ones here. Let’s clear up any confusion so you can cook with confidence!

Can I use canned green beans for Texas Roadhouse Green Beans?

Absolutely, you can! I’ve used canned green beans in a pinch, and they work just fine. Just drain ‘em well and reduce the simmering time to 5-7 minutes since they’re already cooked. The flavor’s still awesome.

Can I make Texas Roadhouse Green Beans ahead of time?

Yup, I’ve done this for holiday meals. Cook ‘em up to the simmering step, then cool and store in the fridge. Reheat with a little broth when you’re ready to serve, and toss the bacon in last for crunch.

Is there a vegetarian version?

For sure! Skip the bacon and use olive oil with a dash of smoked paprika or liquid smoke. I’ve made it this way for friends, and they loved it.

How do I keep the beans from getting mushy?

Don’t overcook ‘em, that’s the trick. I set a timer and check after 10 minutes if using fresh beans. You want tender-crisp, not soggy.

Can I double the recipe?

Oh yeah, I’ve doubled Texas Roadhouse Green Beans for potlucks. Just use a bigger skillet or Dutch oven, and adjust the cooking time slightly since there’s more volume.

What if I don’t have brown sugar?

No worries, I’ve subbed in honey or even a bit of regular sugar before. It’s not exactly the same, but it still gives that hint of sweetness.

Can I add other veggies?

Go for it! I’ve thrown in diced carrots or bell peppers with the onions, and it adds color and flavor. Just make sure they cook at a similar rate to the beans.

How do I make it spicier?

I like a kick sometimes, so I’ll add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce with the broth. Start small and taste as you go so it’s not too fiery!

Conclusion

Well, there ya have it, folks—everything I’ve learned about making Texas Roadhouse Green Beans that’ll have your family begging for more. I’ve poured my heart (and a lotta bacon grease) into perfecting this dish, and I can’t wait for you to try it. So, grab your skillet, whip up some Texas Roadhouse Green Beans, and let me know how it turns out—I’m all ears!

Conclusion

I hope you enjoyed this recipe for Texas Roadhouse Green Beans! It’s truly one of my favorites, and I’m confident you’ll love it too. Remember to follow the steps carefully for the best results.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with your own variations and make this recipe your own. Happy cooking!