Canned Green Beans Recipe
Looking for a quick and delicious side dish that elevates canned green beans from mundane to magnificent? This Canned Green Beans Recipe is just what you need! With minimal ingredients and a few simple steps, you’ll transform those canned veggies into a flavorful, garlicky delight that pairs perfectly with any main course. Grab your cans and let’s make green beans that even the pickiest eaters will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Canned Green Beans Recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. The combination of butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese creates a rich taste that will make you forget you’re working with canned beans. Plus, it takes just about 15 minutes to whip up, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner guests. The best part? It’s versatile enough to complement any meal, whether you’re serving chicken, beef, or a hearty vegetarian dish.
Gather These Ingredients
To make this flavorful Canned Green Beans Recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) green beans – Make sure to drain them well for the best texture.
- 1 tablespoon butter – Adds creaminess and richness.
- 2 teaspoons olive oil – Enhances flavor and helps with sautĂ©ing.
- 4 cloves garlic – Thinly sliced for aromatic goodness.
- 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese – Shredded for that delicious cheesy finish.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning.
Toolbox for This Recipe
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following tools handy:
- Skillet or frying pan – You’ll need this for sautĂ©ing the garlic and green beans.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – Perfect for stirring and mixing.
- Measuring spoons – Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
- Can opener – To easily open those green beans.
Directions: Canned Green Beans Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Green Beans
Start by opening the cans of green beans. Pour the contents into a colander and rinse them under cold water. This helps to remove any excess sodium and improves the overall flavor.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
In a skillet over medium heat, add the butter and olive oil. Allow the butter to melt completely, creating a flavorful base for your green beans.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Add the thinly sliced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant and just beginning to turn golden. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can become bitter.
Step 4: Add the Green Beans
Once the garlic is ready, add the drained green beans to the skillet. Stir them well to coat with the garlic-infused butter and oil. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Season and Finish
After the green beans are heated through, add salt and pepper to taste. Then, sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese over the top. Stir until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Transfer the garlicky green beans to a serving dish. You can add a little more Parmesan on top for garnish if desired. Enjoy your Canned Green Beans Recipe alongside your favorite main dishes!
Ingredient Flex Options

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences:
- Cheese Variations: Try using Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
- Add Protein: Toss in some cooked bacon or diced chicken for a heartier side dish.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can be added for a burst of freshness.
- Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes will add a nice kick!
Common Errors (and Fixes)
Here are some common pitfalls to avoid when making this Canned Green Beans Recipe:
- Overcooking the Garlic: If the garlic burns, it will impart a bitter flavor. Keep an eye on it and stir frequently!
- Not Draining the Beans: If you skip draining the beans, they can become watery and dilute the flavors. Make sure to drain and rinse!
- Skipping Seasoning: Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper! Taste as you go to achieve the perfect balance.
- Too Much Cheese: While cheese is delicious, too much can overpower the dish. Stick to the recommended amount for the best flavor.
Cooling, Storing & Rewarming
If you have leftovers, here’s how to handle them:
Allow the green beans to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of olive oil or a little water to prevent sticking. You can also microwave them in short intervals until heated through.
Your Questions, Answered
Can I use frozen green beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just make sure to cook the frozen green beans until they are tender before adding them to the skillet with garlic. The cooking time may vary slightly.
What can I serve with these green beans?
This Canned Green Beans Recipe pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a hearty pasta dish. They’re versatile enough to complement almost any meal!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the green beans and the garlic mixture ahead of time. Just combine them right before serving and warm through.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
No problem! You can use any cheese you have on hand, or omit it completely for a dairy-free version. Nutritional yeast is a great alternative for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Bring It Home
This Canned Green Beans Recipe is a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy your vegetables. With its quick prep time and easy-to-find ingredients, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, these green beans will add a touch of gourmet flair to your plate.
Experiment with different variations and make it your own, but remember, the essence of this dish lies in its simplicity and the delightful blend of flavors. So, the next time you find yourself with a couple of cans of green beans, you’ll know exactly how to transform them into something extraordinary! Enjoy your meal!

Canned Green Beans Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by opening the cans of green beans. Pour the contents into a colander and rinse them under cold water. This helps to remove any excess sodium and improves the overall flavor.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add the butter and olive oil. Allow the butter to melt completely, creating a flavorful base for your green beans.
- Add the thinly sliced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant and just beginning to turn golden. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can become bitter.
- Once the garlic is ready, add the drained green beans to the skillet. Stir them well to coat with the garlic-infused butter and oil. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- After the green beans are heated through, add salt and pepper to taste. Then, sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese over the top. Stir until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed.
- Transfer the garlicky green beans to a serving dish. You can add a little more Parmesan on top for garnish if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
- Allow the green beans to cool before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a skillet with a splash of olive oil or water to prevent sticking.
- For added protein, toss in some cooked bacon or diced chicken.
