Savory Garlic Butter Roasted Green Beans

For a simple yet delicious side to pair with any meal, it's hard to beat oven-roasted green beans. Roasting caramelizes and intensifies their sweet, earthy flavor. And tossing them with savory garlic butter before baking takes these crisp-tender beans over the top. The brown butter and garlic meld into an irresistible coating. Read on for the easy way to roast flawless buttery green beans at home.

Select Fresh Green Beans

Look for slender, crisp green beans without bulges or brown spots. The thinner beans cook more evenly than fatter haricots verts.

Try to find beans of even width for most consistent roasting. Rinse and pat very dry before using.

If out of season, frozen green beans work well too. Thaw completely before roasting.

Other Veggies to Roast

Asparagus, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, broccoli and carrots all roast up deliciously.

Toss with Browned Butter

Browned butter, also known as beurre noisette, provides incredible depth of flavor. Heat 6 tbsp butter in a skillet until golden brown and nutty.

Swirl the pan constantly once melting to prevent burning. Cook until solids turn brown and aroma is nutty.

Immediately drizzle the browned butter over green beans and toss to coat. Let cool slightly before adding garlic.

Splash in Lemon

For brightness, add a teaspoon or two of fresh lemon juice to the butter before drizzling.

Sauté the Garlic

For sweet caramelized flavor, sauté 2-3 minced garlic cloves in the browned butter in the pan for 1-2 minutes until golden.

Let the garlic briefly infuse the butter after browning. Then mix the hot garlicky butter into the bowl of green beans.

This extra step prevents burnt garlic and maximizes flavor distribution.

Season Well

Be generous with seasoning to make the beans pop. Use 1/4 teaspoon each of salt and pepper along with other herbs and spices:

• Smoked paprika
• Onion powder
• Thyme
• Red pepper flakes

Smoked paprika is especially delicious. Don't be afraid of strong seasonings since the beans mellow in the oven.

Roast at High Heat

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.

Spread seasoned green beans in a single layer on the prepared pan. Make sure not to overcrowd.

Roast for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway, until browned and crispy outside but still snappy-tender inside.

Finish with Flakes and acid

Just before serving, sprinkle roasted green beans with flaky sea salt like Maldon and a squeeze of lemon juice.

The finishing salts provide pretty pops of texture and mild salinity. The acid brightens flavors.

Garnish with minced parsley or snipped chives if desired. Enjoy your green bean perfection!

Conclusion

Savory garlic butter roasted green beans make an easy, flavorful accompaniment to complete any meal. Tossing crisp fresh beans with browned butter and garlic before roasting infuses them with nutty sweetness. A hot oven ensures caramelized brown bits while keeping them tender inside. The perfect balance of textures and big, bold flavors will have everyone asking for seconds!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, frozen works well. Just be sure to thaw and pat very dry first.

2. Is regular butter ok instead of browning?

Browned butter gives the best flavor, but you can use softened regular butter.

3. What if my beans aren't uniform?

Cut larger beans in half lengthwise so all pieces are similar size for even cooking.

4. Can I prep these in advance?

You can roast up to 2 days ahead. Reheat in a 400F oven for 7 minutes.

5. What else pairs well with them?

Roasted potatoes, chicken, salmon, steak, or pork chops!