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–+ servings
A close-up of a bowl filled with vibrant green beans, seasoned with black pepper and topped with shaved Parmesan cheese.

5-Ingredient Thanksgiving Green Beans (No Fail)

This recipe offers a simple and flavorful green bean side dish perfect for Thanksgiving. It uses only five main ingredients and is designed for ease and delicious results.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound green beans stem ends trimmed
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup water or stock
  • 2 garlic cloves crushed but not peeled
  • Kosher salt or flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Parmesan cheese freshly grated, optional

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Lid

Method
 

  1. Combine the green beans, butter, water, and garlic cloves in a large skillet. Sprinkle generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Cover the skillet, place over medium-high heat, and bring to a simmer. Immediately turn the heat to low once the water is simmering.
  3. Cook for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender but not mushy. Uncover and toss the beans in their sauce.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Transfer the beans to a serving dish. Shave Parmesan over the top if desired, and add more cracked pepper.

Notes

This recipe is designed for simplicity and speed, making it an ideal choice for busy holiday cooks. The crushed garlic cloves infuse flavor without becoming bitter.

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