24 Green Bean Sides That Go Way Beyond the Classic Casserole

Green bean sides don’t have to be boring or stuck in the same old rut. Whether you’re planning a holiday spread or just shaking up a weeknight dinner, there are so many ways to make green beans the star of the plate. Think bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and simple techniques that bring out the best in this versatile veggie. These recipes go way beyond the classic casserole to show just how great green beans can be.

Close-up image of maple bacon wrapped green bean bundles on a plate. — Maple Bacon Wrapped Green Bean Bundles. Photo credit: xoxoBella .

Din Tai Fung Green Beans

Overhead view of green beans placed on a paper towel on a platter. — Din Tai Fung Green Beans. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

These smothered garlic green beans, inspired by Din Tai Fung, highlight fresh simplicity with just four ingredients. They're a flavorful side that works well beyond traditional casserole fare.
Get the Recipe: Din Tai Fung Green Beans

Green Beans and Potatoes

An image of green beans in a serving bowl with a spoon resting on it. — Green Beans and Potatoes. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Tender green beans and potatoes come together in a perfectly seasoned side dish that's ready in just 25 minutes. A wholesome option for meals needing a quick yet satisfying vegetable pairing.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans and Potatoes

Stir Fry Green Beans with Coconut

A top-down view of stir-fried green beans with coconut on a white plate, accompanied by a white napkin and fork. — Stir Fry Green Beans with Coconut. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Stir-fried green beans with coconut and Indian spices create a vibrant and aromatic dish. Pair it with rice or flatbread for a versatile option that’s ready in 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Stir Fry Green Beans with Coconut

Southern Green Beans

Green beans with pork on a black plate. — Southern Green Beans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Slowly cooked green beans with smoked pork hock, bacon, and sausage embody the essence of Southern comfort food. This rich and hearty side dish is perfect for special gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Southern Green Beans

Green Beans with Cranberries, Bacon and Goat Cheese

Green beans with cranberries, bacon, and goat cheese balance sweet, savory, and creamy elements for a bold addition to your table. It’s a standout option that bridges traditional and modern flavors seamlessly.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans with Cranberries, Bacon and Goat cheese

Maple Bacon Wrapped Green Bean Bundles

Maple bacon-wrapped green bean bundles combine sweet, salty, and buttery flavors for a holiday table. Oven-roasted and versatile, they pair wonderfully with a range of main dishes.
Get the Recipe: Maple Bacon Wrapped Green Bean Bundles

Roasted Potatoes and Green Beans

Roasted green beans and potatoes combine effortless preparation with great taste. This easy side dish fits any meal and highlights the versatility of vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Potatoes and Green Beans

Blackstone Green Beans

Blackstone Griddle green beans are ready in just 10 minutes with only five ingredients. This quick side dish brings convenience and fresh flavor to the table.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Green Beans

Worcestershire Green Beans

Worcestershire green beans feature a bold sauce with tender-crisp beans, ready in just 20 minutes. This side works equally well for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Worcestershire Green Beans

Green Bean Tomato Salad

Green beans and tomatoes on a white plate. — Green Bean Tomato Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Green bean tomato salad is a fresh and refreshing option, perfect for summer meals. Quick to prepare and full of nourishing ingredients, it’s an easy side to add to your lineup.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Tomato Salad

Green Beans with Garlic Butter

Green beans with pine nuts on a plate. — Green Beans with Garlic Butter. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Garlic butter green beans deliver bold flavor and a perfectly seasoned finish. This versatile recipe works for both casual meals and elegant occasions.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans with Garlic Butter

Green Beans Almondine with Bacon

Green beans with bacon and almonds on a red plate. — Green Beans Almondine with Bacon. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Green Beans Almondine with Bacon is a savory mix of buttery flavors and a hint of lemon. A versatile choice that’s great for any gathering or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans Almondine with Bacon

BBQ Green Beans

A white bowl with barbecued green beans and chuncks of ham. — BBQ Green Beans. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

BBQ green beans blend tender beans with ham, onions, and tangy sauce for a robust dish. This hearty side complements a variety of meals effortlessly.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Green Beans

Garlicky Green Beans with Fried Onions

Garlicky Green Beans with Fried Onions are a crisp and aromatic addition to the table. They’re an impressive yet simple option for replacing green bean casserole.
Get the Recipe: Garlicky Green Beans with Fried Onions

Screaming Skillet Green Beans

Screaming skillet green beans, cooked in a hot skillet with garlic and white wine, are packed with bold flavors. This recipe is an excellent summer side to brighten any meal.
Get the Recipe: Screaming Skillet Green Beans

Garlic Green Beans

These garlic green beans are simple and quick, ready in just 15 minutes. Sauteed to tender perfection, they’re a great go-to side for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Green Beans

Crack Green Beans

Crack green beans are loaded with crispy bacon, onions, and a flavorful homemade sauce. This bold dish guarantees to draw attention to your side options.
Get the Recipe: Crack Green Beans

Grilled Green Beans

Easy grilled green beans bring a smoky char and tender texture in just 15 minutes. Tossed in garlic soy sauce, they complement any summer meal beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Green Beans

Easy Air Fryer Green Beans

Air fryer green beans are crisp and perfectly seasoned, highlighting a mix of textures and flavors. This quick side fits any meal while being light and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Green Beans

Bacon Wrapped Green Beans

Bacon-wrapped green beans are a timeless side dish requiring just two ingredients. Prep them in advance for easy baking before serving, adding ease to your meal planning.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Green Beans

Asparagus & Green Beans w/ Lemon & Pecans

Asparagus and green beans with pecans and lemon make a fresh, crunchy side for any feast. This simple recipe is a vibrant addition to any vegetable spread.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus & Green Beans w/ Lemon & Pecans

Beans Palya / Beans Poriyal (South Indian Green Beans)

Green beans palya is a South Indian dish with sautéed beans, coconut, and a hint of lemon. It’s quick to prepare and pairs wonderfully with rice or flatbreads.
Get the Recipe: Beans Palya / Beans Poriyal (South Indian Green Beans)

Sweet and Salty Green Bean Cherry Salad

Green bean cherry salad, topped with caramelized onions, crispy ham, and crumbled feta, is both flavorful and unique. This side adds texture and variety to any spread.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Salty Green Bean Cherry Salad

Air Fryer Sausage, Gnocchi, and Green Beans

Air fryer sausage, gnocchi, and green beans is a complete meal cooked together effortlessly. This one-pan recipe is perfect for a simple yet hearty dinner.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sausage, Gnocchi, and Green Beans