Are you tired of the same old weeknight routine? Look no further! Canned green beans are a pantry staple that can be used in a variety of delicious and easy recipes. With just a few simple ingredients and some creative twists, you can transform these humble veggies into mouthwatering meals that will impress even the pickiest of eaters. In this article, we’ll explore 18 easy canned green bean recipes perfect for busy weeknights.
From comforting casseroles to quick sautés and flavorful salads, our recipes showcase the versatility of canned green beans. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, these ideas are sure to inspire your next meal. So go ahead, get creative, and make the most of those cans in your pantry!
Garlic Butter Canned Green Beans
Transform canned green beans into a flavorful side dish by adding aromatic garlic butter. This simple recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or quick gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can green beans, drained
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Pour garlic butter mixture over green beans in a serving dish.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Creamy Mushroom and Green Bean Casserole
A rich and savory casserole that combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the brightness of green beans, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook green beans according to package instructions until tender.
3. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms, onion, and garlic in butter until softened.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and cheddar cheese.
5. Combine cooked green beans, mushroom mixture, and creamy sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southern-Style Canned Green Beans with Bacon
Experience the quintessential Southern flavors with this simple yet savory recipe that elevates canned green beans to a whole new level by adding crispy bacon and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can of green beans, drained
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
3. Arrange the diced bacon on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Bake the bacon for 10-12 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
5. In a large skillet, combine the drained green beans, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the green beans are tender and caramelized (about 5-7 minutes).
6. Add the crispy bacon to the skillet with the green beans and stir to combine.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Pepper Canned Green Beans
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your canned green beans with this simple and delicious recipe. Perfect for a quick side dish or addition to your favorite meal, these lemon pepper green beans are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can green beans, drained
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 1 tsp black pepper
– Salt to taste (optional)
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the lemon zest and black pepper; stir until combined.
3. Add the drained green beans to the saucepan and toss to coat with the lemon pepper mixture.
4. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through, stirring occasionally.
5. Season with salt to taste (if using).
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Spicy Sautéed Canned Green Beans with Chili Flakes
Add a kick to your green beans with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the convenience of canned green beans with the heat of chili flakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can of green beans, drained
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon of chili flakes
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the drained green beans and cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to brown.
3. Sprinkle the chili flakes over the green beans and stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: About 5-7 minutes total
Cheesy Green Bean Bake with Crispy Onions
A creamy and savory side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This Cheesy Green Bean Bake with Crispy Onions is a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 medium onions, sliced into thin rings
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onions in butter until crispy and golden brown.
3. In a separate bowl, combine green beans, milk, shredded cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Arrange the cooked onions on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Add the green bean mixture on top of the onions.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Pickled Canned Green Beans
Add a tangy twist to your canned green beans with this simple pickling recipe. Perfect as a side dish or added to salads and sandwiches for a burst of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup canned green beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon mustard seeds (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine water, vinegar, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add green beans and mustard seeds (if using) to the pickling liquid. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until green beans are coated in the pickling liquid.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Transfer pickled green beans to a clean glass jar with tight-fitting lid and refrigerate.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Green Bean and Potato Salad with Mustard Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of potatoes, the crunch of green beans, and a tangy mustard dressing for a perfect side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch green beans for 4-5 minutes, or until slightly tender. Drain and immediately submerge in an ice bath to stop cooking.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together mustard and vinegar.
5. Combine roasted potatoes, blanched green beans, and mustard dressing in a large bowl. Toss gently to combine. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Asian-Style Stir-Fried Canned Green Beans
Transform canned green beans into a flavorful and nutritious side dish with this easy recipe. This Asian-inspired stir-fry adds a burst of savory flavor to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can green beans, drained
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add green beans, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry for 4-5 minutes or until beans are tender-crisp.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
6. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Green Bean Almondine with Toasted Almonds
Elevate your green beans to a new level by combining them with toasted almonds, garlic, and lemon zest. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add green beans and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, toast almonds in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until fragrant.
5. Remove green beans from heat and stir in garlic, lemon juice, and salt.
6. Sprinkle toasted almonds over the top of the green beans and garnish with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato and Green Bean Stew with Herbs
A flavorful and nutritious stew that showcases the sweetness of tomatoes and green beans, infused with the aroma of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, trimmed green beans, thyme, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the stew over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green Bean and Corn Medley with Butter
This simple yet flavorful recipe combines tender green beans and sweet corn with a pat of butter, perfect for a side dish or light meal. It’s ready in just 15 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cups frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the green beans and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the corn kernels and stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low, then add the softened butter.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the butter has melted and the mixture is heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Green Bean and Ham Hock Soup
This comforting soup is a delicious twist on traditional green bean soup, featuring the rich flavor of ham hocks and a hint of creaminess. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 pounds ham hocks
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine green beans, ham hocks, chicken broth, onion, and garlic.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the green beans are tender.
3. Remove the ham hocks from the pot and let them cool. Once cool enough to handle, pull off any remaining meat and add it back to the soup.
4. If desired, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half to give the soup a creamy consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Green Bean and Carrot Sauté with Garlic
This vibrant sauté combines the natural sweetness of green beans and carrots with the pungency of garlic, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion. With just 15 minutes of cooking time, you can enjoy this tasty and healthy recipe in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the green beans and carrots, and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and continue cooking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Green Bean and Tuna Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of green beans with the protein-packed goodness of tuna, all tied together with a zesty lemon vinaigrette. Perfect for a light and healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 can (5 oz) tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss green beans with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon olive oil on a baking sheet. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine roasted green beans, tuna, lemon juice, and remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with parsley leaves if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Bean and Chickpea Curry
A flavorful and nutritious Indian-inspired curry that combines tender green beans and chickpeas in a rich and aromatic sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic, ginger, curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add green beans and chickpeas. Cook for 5 minutes, or until green beans are tender.
4. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Bean and Sausage Skillet Dinner
This hearty one-pot meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner. With the combination of crispy sausage, tender green beans, and creamy potatoes, you’ll have a satisfying meal that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the sausage for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned.
2. Add the green beans, potatoes, garlic, and chicken broth to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven (400°F). Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the sausage is cooked through.
4. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green Bean and Tomato Casserole with Parmesan
This classic casserole is a perfect blend of tender green beans, sweet tomatoes, and nutty Parmesan cheese. A simple yet satisfying side dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch green beans for 5 minutes, then drain.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add diced tomatoes and cook until they release their juices and start to caramelize, about 10 minutes.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange the blanched green beans in an even layer. Top with the tomato mixture, then sprinkle Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs evenly.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Need a quick and delicious way to use up canned green beans? Look no further! This article shares 18 easy recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From classic casserole dishes to international-inspired stir-fries, there’s something for everyone. Try garlic butter green beans with crispy onions, spicy sautéed green beans with chili flakes, or a creamy mushroom and green bean casserole. Whatever your taste, these recipes will get you cooking in no time.
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