Vibrant, quick, and festive—perfect for holiday tables!
These 5-ingredient garlic green beans are a game-changer for holiday meals. With just green beans, garlic, butter, red pepper flakes, and salt, you’ll have a vibrant side that pairs beautifully with prime rib or turkey.
Need a side that’s ready in under 15 minutes? This recipe is your answer. It’s perfect for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any gathering where time is tight.
The garlic and red pepper flakes add a zesty kick, while the butter keeps the beans tender. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize.
Whether you’re hosting a large dinner or just want a quick, healthy side, these green beans will elevate your plate.
Let’s get cooking!
Why This Recipe Works
Speedy & Simple
Done in 15 minutes with just five pantry staples—no last-minute shopping needed.
Flavor Boost
Garlic, butter, and red pepper flakes create a savory-sweet balance that complements meats and mains.
Versatile
Perfect for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or weeknight dinners. Adjust spice levels to suit your taste.
Healthy & Light
Low-calorie, high-fiber side that pairs well with rich dishes like roasted meats.
5-Ingredient Garlic Green Beans
Quick, festive, and festive-ready!
🛒 Ingredients
- - 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- - 3 cloves garlic, minced
- - 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- - Salt to taste
👨🍳 Instructions
Trim Beans: Cut green beans to even lengths (about 2-3 inches).
💡 Use a sharp knife for clean cuts.
Heat Butter: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
💡 Use a nonstick skillet to prevent sticking.
Add Garlic: Sauté garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
💡 Don’t let garlic brown—add beans immediately.
Cook Beans: Add green beans and red pepper flakes. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
💡 Beans should be tender but still crisp.
Season: Add salt to taste and stir to coat evenly.
💡 Taste before serving for perfect seasoning.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Green Beans
Use fresh, firm beans for best texture. Frozen green beans can be substituted (no need to thaw).
Substitutions: Snow peas or sugar snap peas.
Butter
Adds richness. For a dairy-free version, use olive oil.
Substitutions: Ghee or coconut oil.
Garlic
Fresh garlic is ideal for flavor. Minced garlic in a jar works in a pinch.
Substitutions: Garlic powder (use 1/4 tsp).
Red Pepper Flakes
Adds a spicy kick. Adjust to taste or omit for a milder dish.
Substitutions: Crushed red pepper or cayenne pepper.
Pro Tips for Perfect Green Beans
Timing is Key
Cook beans just until tender-crisp to avoid mushiness. Stir frequently for even cooking.
Flavor Boost
Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice at the end for brightness.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet for best texture.
Serving
Garnish with fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil for a festive touch.
Variations & Customizations
Spicy & Sweet
Add a teaspoon of maple syrup or honey for a sweet-spicy balance.
Cheesy Twist
Sprinkle with grated Parmesan before serving for a creamy finish.
Herbed Version
Mix in fresh thyme or rosemary during cooking for an aromatic upgrade.
Asian-Inspired
Use soy sauce and rice vinegar instead of salt and pepper flakes for an umami boost.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Roast prime rib or turkey—complements richness with brightness.
- Herb-roasted potatoes for a balanced plate.
- Cranberry sauce for a classic holiday trio.
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a light red such as Pinot Noir.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Cook up to 24 hours ahead. Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
Refrigerator Storage
Keep leftovers refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet for best texture.
Freezer Storage
Freeze cooked beans for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes. Avoid microwave for best texture.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: My beans are too soft. What did I do wrong?
A: Overcooking is likely the culprit. Check for tenderness-crispness (like al dente pasta).
Q: Can I use frozen green beans?
A: Yes! No need to thaw. Add directly to the skillet and adjust cooking time as needed.
Q: How to make this gluten-free?
A: Use olive oil instead of butter (if necessary) and ensure all seasonings are gluten-free.
Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Carrots or zucchini work well. Add during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
Final Thoughts
These 5-ingredient garlic green beans are a holiday staple for a reason. They’re quick, vibrant, and adaptable—perfect for any festive table. Whether you’re hosting a large dinner or just want a reliable side, this recipe won’t disappoint.
Give it a try this Christmas, and don’t forget to share your favorite quick veggie sides in the comments! 🌟
