Stovetop Crack Green Beans with Parmesan

These Stovetop Crack Green Beans with Parmesan are a game-changer. Cooked to tender perfection on the stovetop and topped with crispy, golden Parmesan crumbles, these green beans are irresistibly flavorful and oh-so-simple to make. Perfect as a side dish, this recipe takes green beans to the next level with a cheesy, crackly topping that’s too good to be true!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes with just one pan.
• Addictive Flavor: A savory blend of garlic, butter, and Parmesan creates an unforgettable topping.
• Versatile: Pairs with just about any main dish, from steak to chicken.
• Crispy and Cheesy: The Parmesan topping forms a crackly crust that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound fresh green beans, ends trimmed
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (sandy texture recommended)
• ¼ cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

Directions

Prepare the Green Beans

1. Wash and trim the ends of the green beans. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel to remove any excess moisture.

Sauté the Green Beans

2. Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the green beans to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir to coat.
4. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the beans cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender-crisp.

Make the Parmesan Crust

5. Remove the lid and push the green beans to one side of the skillet.
6. Add the minced garlic, Panko breadcrumbs, and half of the Parmesan cheese to the empty side of the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, until the breadcrumbs and cheese turn golden and crispy, about 2–3 minutes.

Combine and Finish

7. Mix the crispy breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture with the green beans, ensuring the beans are evenly coated.
8. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top of the beans and let it melt slightly for an extra cheesy finish.

Serve

9. Transfer the green beans to a serving dish. Garnish with red pepper flakes, if desired, and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: Serves 4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add Bacon: Cook crispy bacon in the skillet before adding the green beans for extra smoky flavor.
• Herbal Twist: Add fresh thyme or parsley at the end for a burst of freshness.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted almonds or walnuts on top for added texture.
• Extra Cheesy: Mix in shredded mozzarella or Gruyère for gooey, cheesy green beans.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat to re-crisp the Parmesan topping. Avoid microwaving to preserve the texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, but thaw and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture during cooking.

2. What type of Parmesan works best?

Grated Parmesan with a sandy consistency sticks best to the beans and crisps up nicely.

3. Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, replace butter with vegan butter, use dairy-free Parmesan, and omit the cheese topping.

4. How do I prevent the Parmesan from burning?

Stir frequently and cook over medium heat to ensure the cheese crisps without burning.

5. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini pair well with green beans in this dish.

6. How do I ensure the beans stay crisp?

Cook the beans over medium-high heat and avoid overcooking. They should remain tender-crisp.

7. Can I prepare this dish in advance?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prep the green beans and Parmesan mixture separately and combine just before serving.

8. What can I serve with this dish?

Pair with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon for a complete meal.

9. Can I skip the breadcrumbs?

Yes, the dish will still be delicious with just the Parmesan topping.

10. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while sautéing.

Conclusion

These Stovetop Crack Green Beans with Parmesan are a quick and irresistible side dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. With their crispy Parmesan topping and tender, flavorful green beans, this dish is perfect for weeknights or special occasions. Give it a try and enjoy the savory goodness!

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