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Garlic Butter Sauteed Green Beans - Simple, Flavorful, and Weeknight-Friendly

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed (you can leave them whole or cut into 2-inch pieces)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (plus 1 extra tablespoon if you like it extra buttery)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (helps prevent the butter from burning)
  • 3–4 cloves garlic, finely minced or pressed
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 2–3 tablespoons water or broth (for a quick steam to soften the beans)
  • Optional finishers: Lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice, red pepper flakes, grated Parmesan, toasted almonds, or chopped parsley

Method
 

  1. Prep the beans: Rinse and dry the green beans. Trim the stem ends. If using frozen beans, don’t thaw—just add a minute or two to the cooking time.
  2. Heat the pan: Set a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and butter. When the butter is melted and foamy, you’re ready to cook.
  3. Sauté the beans: Add the green beans in an even layer. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring every minute or so, until they turn bright green and get a few golden spots, about 4–5 minutes.
  4. Quick steam: Add 2–3 tablespoons of water or broth and immediately cover the pan. Steam for 2–3 minutes to soften the beans while keeping them crisp.
  5. Add the garlic: Uncover and push the beans to create a bit of space. Add the garlic to the butter in the pan. Cook 30–45 seconds, stirring, until fragrant. Toss the beans to coat them in the garlic butter.
  6. Taste and finish: Adjust salt and pepper. If you like, add a squeeze of lemon, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a shower of Parmesan. Cook 30 seconds more to meld flavors.
  7. Serve warm: Transfer to a serving dish. Finish with toasted almonds or parsley for a little crunch and color.