These crispy roasted green beans are a simple yet flavorful side dish that turns a basic vegetable into a savory, satisfying treat.
Packed with fiber and plant-based protein, they’re lightly coated in heart-healthy olive oil and topped with garlic and parmesan for a nutrient-rich boost.
Quick to prepare and low in carbs, they’re perfect for everyday meals or meal prep.
20-Minute Roasted Green Beans
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 Baking Sheet
- 1 knife
- 1 Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 lb green beans trimmed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 6 cloves garlic thinly sliced
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (204°C). This ensures that your green beans will roast evenly and develop a slightly caramelized exterior. Position your oven rack in the middle to allow optimal air circulation, which helps the beans cook perfectly crisp-tender.
- Prepare the Green Beans: Take 1 pound of fresh green beans and trim the ends. You can do this by snapping off the tips or using a knife to cut the ends neatly. Rinse the green beans under cold water and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Drying them is crucial—excess moisture will cause the beans to steam rather than roast.
- Toss with Olive Oil and Seasonings: Place the trimmed green beans in a large mixing bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to toss the green beans thoroughly, making sure each bean is evenly coated with oil and seasonings. This step ensures the beans roast uniformly and absorb all the flavors.
- Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, or use a lightly greased baking sheet. Spread the green beans in a single, even layer. Avoid overcrowding, as beans too close together will steam instead of roast, preventing that ideal crisp-tender texture. Save any leftover oil in the bowl for later use.
- Initial Roast: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the green beans for 10 minutes. During this time, they will begin to soften and lightly brown, developing a subtle roasted flavor. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook or burn.
- Prepare the Garlic: While the green beans roast, peel and thinly slice 6 cloves of garlic. Add the garlic slices to the leftover oil in the bowl used for tossing the beans. Toss gently to coat the garlic in the oil, which helps it brown evenly without burning. If needed, add a teaspoon more olive oil to lightly coat the garlic slices.
- Add Garlic and Parmesan: After the initial 10 minutes of roasting, carefully remove the green beans from the oven. Sprinkle the sliced garlic and 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese evenly over the beans. Use a spatula to gently toss them together, ensuring the garlic and cheese are distributed across the beans. Arrange the beans back into a thin, even layer to allow for proper roasting.
- Continue Roasting: Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for an additional 5–10 minutes. The exact time depends on your preferred level of caramelization—the garlic should turn golden brown and the beans should be crisp-tender. Check them at 6–8 minutes for an ideal balance of softness and crispness.
- Optional Broil for Extra Color: If you want your roasted green beans and garlic to be slightly darker and more caramelized, switch the oven to the broil setting for the last 2 minutes. Keep a close watch during broiling, as the garlic can burn quickly. This step adds extra depth of flavor and a visually appealing golden finish.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the roasted green beans from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. They can be enjoyed immediately while warm and crisp. These beans are perfect as a side dish for dinner, tossed into salads, or paired with roasted meats or plant-based mains.
- Storage Tips: To store leftovers, place cooled green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–5 days. Note that they may lose some crispness but remain flavorful. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. For freezing, roast the beans without garlic and parmesan for 10 minutes, then freeze in a single layer. Reheat and add garlic and parmesan when ready to eat.
Notes
- Serving Size: Each serving is approximately 3/4 cup.
- Tenderness Tip: Roast beans until crisp-tender, not mushy, for the perfect texture.
- Garlic Preference: For extra crispy garlic, slice thinly and broil briefly at the end.
- Frozen Beans: You can use frozen green beans; roast slightly longer and skip thawing.
- Cheese Variations: Parmesan can be swapped with pecorino or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for preparing in advance; reheat in the oven to maintain texture.
Chef’s Secrets For Perfect Roasting
To achieve the best roasted green beans, even coating and spacing are key.
Toss the beans thoroughly in olive oil and seasonings before spreading them in a single layer on the pan—overcrowding leads to steaming instead of roasting.
Slicing garlic thinly allows it to caramelize without burning.
Also, consider using a high-quality olive oil for richer flavor.
Lastly, keep an eye during the final roasting or broiling step; even a minute can make the difference between golden-brown perfection and bitter garlic.
Serving Suggestions For Any Occasion
Roasted green beans pair beautifully with a wide range of main dishes.
Serve alongside grilled chicken, baked salmon, or roasted pork for a balanced meal.
For a vegetarian twist, toss them with quinoa or brown rice and a squeeze of lemon juice.
They also make a delicious addition to salads or grain bowls, adding texture and savory flavor.
Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a vibrant finish and an extra layer of aroma.
Storage Tips To Keep Fresh
Store cooled roasted green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–5 days.
Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes to restore crispness, as microwaving can make them soggy.
For long-term storage, partially roast beans (without garlic and parmesan), freeze in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2–3 months.
When ready to eat, roast frozen beans at 400°F for 5–7 minutes, then add garlic and parmesan to finish cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes! Frozen green beans work well in this recipe. No need to thaw; simply roast them a few minutes longer than fresh beans. Make sure to spread them in a single layer to avoid steaming, which can make them soft rather than crisp-tender.
2. How do I make this recipe vegan?
Replace parmesan with nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese alternative. The nutritional yeast adds a cheesy, umami flavor while keeping the recipe entirely plant-based.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. Roast the green beans and store them in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven before serving to maintain crispness. Garlic and parmesan can also be added during reheating for best flavor.
4. How can I make the garlic extra crispy?
Slice the garlic thinly and toss it in a small amount of oil before adding to the beans. Roast for the final few minutes and, if desired, broil briefly while watching closely to prevent burning.
5. Can I add other seasonings or spices?
Definitely! Try smoked paprika, chili flakes, lemon zest, or fresh herbs to enhance the flavor. Just toss them in with the olive oil or sprinkle on during the final roasting step for even coverage.
