Are you looking for creative ways to use up a can of green beans? Look no further! Canned green beans are a staple in many pantries, and they’re incredibly versatile. From classic comfort foods to international-inspired dishes, we’ve got 18 easy recipes that showcase the deliciousness of canned green beans.
In this article, we’ll explore a range of mouthwatering recipes that feature canned green beans as the star ingredient. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty casserole or a quick and easy stir-fry, we’ve got you covered. So grab your can of green beans and let’s get cooking!
Southern-style green bean casserole
Classic Southern-Style Green Bean Casserole Recipe
This beloved casserole combines tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and a crunchy crispy topping, making it the perfect side dish for any gathering. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying this comforting classic in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup French-fried onions
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté green beans and onion in butter until tender.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture.
4. Stir in milk, cream of mushroom soup, pepper, and salt.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle French-fried onions on top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic butter green beans with bacon
Elevate your meals with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of green beans, the savory goodness of bacon, and the richness of garlic butter. Perfect as a side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss green beans with bacon, garlic, salt, and pepper on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Dot the top with butter.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until green beans are tender and caramelized.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Green bean and potato salad
A refreshing twist on traditional potato salad, this recipe adds a pop of green from blanched green beans for a light and satisfying side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound small red potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the green beans for 3-5 minutes, or until tender but still crisp. Drain and immediately submerge in an ice bath to stop cooking.
2. In a medium saucepan, cover the potatoes with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled green beans, potatoes, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, dill, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
4. Squeeze the lemon juice over the top and stir gently to distribute.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick green bean stir-fry with sesame seeds
This simple and flavorful recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish. With just a few ingredients, you can have a delicious and nutritious meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or oyster sauce for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the green beans and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
4. Sprinkle the sesame seeds and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Continue cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the green beans are tender but still crisp.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Green bean and mushroom medley
A flavorful and nutritious side dish that combines the tender crunch of green beans with the earthy taste of mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss green beans with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the green beans on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
4. While the green beans are roasting, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they release their moisture and start to brown.
6. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
7. Combine the roasted green beans with the sautéed mushrooms and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy green bean bake
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck gathering. This Cheesy Green Bean Bake is a crowd-pleaser that combines the natural sweetness of green beans with the richness of melted cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add green beans and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine cooked green beans with the cheese mixture and stir to coat.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle with breadcrumbs (if using).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green bean and tomato stew
This refreshing stew is a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of summer’s bounty. With minimal ingredients and quick cooking time, it’s a great option for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the green beans, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until the green beans are tender.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Serves: 4-6
Spicy green beans with soy sauce
Add a kick of flavor to your green beans with this easy and quick recipe. This spicy twist on a classic side dish is perfect for anyone looking to add some excitement to their meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds or chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, olive oil, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
3. Add green beans to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the green beans out in a single layer.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Green bean and ham soup
This hearty soup is a staple of Southern cuisine, combining the sweetness of green beans with the smokiness of ham for a comforting and satisfying meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cups diced cooked ham (such as prosciutto or country-style)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine green beans, ham, chicken broth, onion, garlic, and thyme.
2. Bring mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until green beans are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Green bean and corn succotash
This classic succotash recipe celebrates the flavors of summer with tender green beans, sweet corn, and a hint of smokiness. It’s a perfect side dish for your next barbecue or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cups frozen corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender, flipping halfway through.
5. While green beans roast, heat corn kernels, diced onion, and minced garlic in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until corn is lightly browned, stirring occasionally.
7. Combine roasted green beans and cooked corn mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).
8. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green bean and almond stir-fry
This quick and flavorful stir-fry combines crisp green beans with toasted almonds and a hint of garlic, perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch. With just a few simple ingredients and 15 minutes of cooking time, you’ll be enjoying this tasty dish in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they start to soften.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Stir in the sliced almonds and cook for 2 minutes, until lightly toasted.
5. Pour in the soy sauce and stir-fry everything together for another minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Green bean and onion sauté
This simple yet flavorful recipe combines tender green beans with caramelized onions, perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook for 5-7 minutes or until they are caramelized and golden brown.
3. Add the green beans to the skillet and cook for an additional 4-6 minutes or until they are tender but still crisp.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green bean and carrot medley
This colorful medley of green beans and carrots is a simple and flavorful side dish perfect for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious and nutritious accompaniment to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced into coins
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 clove garlic, minced (adds extra flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the green beans and carrots on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If using garlic, mince it and scatter evenly over the vegetables.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green bean and chicken skillet
This recipe is a flavorful and satisfying one-pot meal that combines the freshness of green beans with the richness of chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the green beans, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, for 10-12 minutes or until the green beans are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Green bean and sausage pasta
This hearty pasta dish combines the smoky flavor of sausage with the crunch of green beans, all wrapped up in a comforting serving of al dente noodles. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add green beans to the skillet; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in chicken broth and reserved pasta water. Bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet; toss with sausage and green bean mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and serve hot. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green bean and quinoa salad
This salad is a perfect blend of textures and flavors, featuring crunchy green beans, nutty quinoa, and tangy lemon vinaigrette. It’s an ideal side dish or light lunch for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped red onion, cherry tomatoes, or crumbled feta cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add green beans and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic.
4. Drain cooked green beans and add to the dressing; toss to coat.
5. Combine cooked quinoa with green bean mixture in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green bean and bell pepper stir-fry
This recipe is a flavorful and healthy side dish that can be prepared in under 15 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a quick accompaniment to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 large bell pepper, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for some heat)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the green beans and bell pepper; stir-fry for 5 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
4. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. If desired, add red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Green bean and mashed potato bake
This comforting casserole combines tender green beans with creamy mashed potatoes and a crunchy topping, perfect for a cozy family dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil, then blanch green beans for 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. Boil potatoes until tender, then mash with butter, milk, and salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the mashed potatoes in the bottom.
5. Top with green beans, then sprinkle with cheddar cheese and panko breadcrumbs.
6. Finish with the remaining mashed potatoes on top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get creative with canned green beans! This article shares 18 easy and delicious recipes that showcase the versatility of this convenient ingredient. From comforting casseroles to quick stir-fries, there’s something for everyone. Try Southern-style green bean casserole, garlic butter green beans with bacon, or a classic green bean and potato salad. For a spicy kick, try green beans with soy sauce, or enjoy them in a hearty stew or soup. Whether you’re looking for a side dish or a main course, these recipes are sure to inspire your next meal.
