This buttery garlic green beans recipe is one of my go-to side dishes when I want something quick, simple, and full of flavor. I love how the tender-crisp beans get coated in rich, garlicky butter, with just a hint of lemon-pepper brightness. It’s the kind of recipe that’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but tasty enough to bring to the holiday table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy making these buttery garlic green beans because they take only about 15 minutes from start to finish, which means I can whip them up even on busy evenings. The recipe uses fresh ingredients that keep their vibrant green color and crisp-tender bite. The garlic butter sauce gives them a comforting richness, while the lemon-pepper seasoning adds a zesty twist. Plus, I can easily customize them with extra ingredients like onions, almonds, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and snapped in half

• 3 tablespoons butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/8 teaspoon lemon-pepper seasoning, or more to taste

• salt to taste

Directions

1. I start by placing the green beans into a large skillet and covering them with water. I bring them to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until they just start to soften, about 3 to 5 minutes.

2. I drain the beans and return them to the skillet.

3. I add the butter and stir until it’s melted, about 1 to 2 minutes.

4. I stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, another 1 to 2 minutes.

5. I season with lemon-pepper and salt, then serve them immediately while they’re still hot and glossy.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes around 5 minutes to prep, 10 minutes to cook, and 15 minutes total.

Variations

• I sometimes replace lemon-pepper with fresh lemon juice and zest plus black pepper for a brighter flavor.

• Adding toasted almond slices or chopped walnuts gives a nice crunch.

• A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese at the end adds a savory, nutty finish.

• For extra depth, I sauté a bit of finely chopped onion or shallot before adding the green beans.

storage/reheating

I store leftover green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I use a skillet over medium heat with a touch of butter to restore the gloss and flavor, or I microwave them for 30–60 seconds until warmed through. I try not to overheat them to keep the beans from getting mushy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen green beans for this recipe?

Yes, I can use frozen green beans, but I make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking so they don’t release too much water.

Can I steam the green beans instead of boiling them?

Absolutely, steaming works well and helps keep more nutrients in the beans.

How do I keep the green beans bright green?

I avoid overcooking them and sometimes shock them in ice water after boiling if I’m not serving immediately.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, I can parboil the beans a day ahead, store them in the fridge, and quickly sauté them in garlic butter before serving.

What can I serve with buttery garlic green beans?

I love pairing them with roast chicken, baked salmon, or even a simple pasta dish.

Conclusion

I find these buttery garlic green beans to be one of the easiest and most satisfying side dishes I can make. They’re quick, adaptable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether I’m cooking for a busy weeknight or a festive gathering, this recipe delivers fresh flavor and a comforting touch every time.