If you’ve ever dined at Texas Roadhouse, you know their green beans are legendary. Tender yet flavorful, these green beans are cooked with smoky bacon, onions, and a savory broth that packs a punch of flavor. The best part? You can recreate this fan-favorite side dish right at home!
Perfect for family dinners, holiday feasts, or a weekday meal upgrade, this Texas Roadhouse green bean recipe is easy to make and guaranteed to impress. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this mouthwatering dish in no time.
What Are Texas Roadhouse Green Beans?
Texas Roadhouse green beans are a Southern-inspired side dish that transforms simple green beans into a flavorful, smoky masterpiece. Known for their tender texture and bold flavor, these green beans are simmered with crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and a savory broth that ties everything together. A touch of sweetness from brown sugar adds balance, making every bite a perfect blend of salty, smoky, and slightly sweet flavors.
This dish stands out because it elevates green beans from a simple vegetable to a star side dish. The bacon brings a rich, smoky flavor that infuses the beans as they simmer, while the onions add a natural sweetness that complements the savory notes of the broth. The result is a well-rounded flavor profile that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses, from roasted chicken to hearty steak.
One of the best parts about Texas Roadhouse green beans is how versatile they are. While they’re a popular choice for weeknight dinners, they also shine on holiday tables or as part of a potluck spread. The recipe is easy to prepare, making it an excellent option whether you’re feeding a crowd or just whipping up a quick side dish for your family.
Whether you’re recreating the flavors of Texas Roadhouse at home or looking for a comforting and delicious side dish, these green beans are a must-try. Once you taste the smoky, savory goodness, you’ll see why they’re a favorite at the restaurant—and soon, at your dinner table too!
Ingredients for Texas Roadhouse Green Beans
Here’s everything you need to recreate this flavorful recipe:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh or Canned Green Beans | 1.5 lbs (or 3 cans) | Use fresh for a firmer texture. |
| Bacon | 6 slices | Thick-cut bacon works best. |
| Yellow Onion | 1 medium, diced | Adds sweetness and depth. |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | Optional, for extra flavor. |
| Chicken Broth | 1 cup | Use low-sodium if preferred. |
| Butter | 2 tbsp | Enhances richness. |
| Brown Sugar | 1 tbsp | Balances the savory and smoky flavors. |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste | Essential for seasoning. |
| Red Pepper Flakes | ¼ tsp | Optional, for a touch of heat. |
How to Make Texas Roadhouse Green Beans
Follow these steps to create the perfect batch of Texas Roadhouse-inspired green beans:
Step 1: Prep the Green Beans
- If using fresh green beans, wash thoroughly, trim the ends, and cut them into bite-sized pieces if needed.
- For canned green beans, drain and rinse to reduce excess sodium.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
- Remove the bacon from the pan and let it drain on paper towels. Crumble into small pieces once cooled. Reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the pan for added flavor.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
- Add the diced onion to the skillet with the reserved bacon grease. Cook over medium heat until softened and lightly caramelized, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Simmer the Green Beans
- Add the green beans to the skillet along with the chicken broth and butter. Stir in the brown sugar, salt, and pepper. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes.
- Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the green beans are tender and have absorbed the flavors.
Step 5: Add the Bacon and Serve
- Stir the crumbled bacon into the green beans and cook uncovered for another 2 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot and enjoy!
Why Texas Roadhouse Green Beans Are So Popular
Texas Roadhouse green beans are more than just a side dish—they’re a flavor-packed experience. The smoky bacon, tender green beans, and sweet-savory broth create a perfect harmony of tastes. These green beans stand out because they’re not bland or overly simple. Instead, they’re bursting with layers of flavor, making them the perfect complement to rich dishes like steak, pork chops, or roasted chicken. Their popularity comes from their ability to elevate any meal, turning even a basic dinner into something special.
Can You Make Texas Roadhouse Green Beans in a Slow Cooker?
Yes! The slow cooker is a fantastic option for making Texas Roadhouse green beans, especially if you’re preparing a big meal and want to free up your stovetop. To adapt the recipe, combine the green beans, bacon, onions, garlic, chicken broth, butter, and seasonings in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours. Stir occasionally, and add the bacon crumbles toward the end for the best texture. This method ensures the green beans are tender and infused with all the smoky, savory flavors. If you’re looking for more slow-cooker inspiration, check out this Crock Pot Southern Green Beans recipe.
Perfect Pairings for Texas Roadhouse Green Beans
These green beans are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes. Serve them alongside Texas Roadhouse-inspired mains like ribeye steak or BBQ pork ribs for a complete meal. They also work wonderfully with baked chicken, grilled salmon, or even a classic meatloaf. For a holiday spread, these green beans shine next to roasted turkey, ham, or a creamy casserole. Their bold flavors hold their own, no matter the occasion. For a more filling variation, explore how to make Southern green beans with potatoes, which pairs perfectly with these dishes as well.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold, Smoky Flavor
The combination of bacon, caramelized onions, and chicken broth creates a deeply flavorful base that makes these green beans irresistible. - Simple Ingredients, Big Impact
You don’t need fancy ingredients to make this dish shine—everything is likely already in your pantry or fridge! - Versatile Side Dish
These green beans pair well with everything from steak and chicken to turkey and ham, making them perfect for any occasion. - Quick and Easy
With minimal prep and cook time, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
Pro Tips for the Best Texas Roadhouse Green Beans
- Use Fresh Green Beans for Better Texture
While canned green beans are convenient, fresh green beans offer a firmer texture and brighter flavor. Blanch them for 2–3 minutes in boiling water before adding to the skillet. - Don’t Overcook
Green beans should be tender but still have a slight bite. Keep an eye on them as they simmer to avoid a mushy texture. - Save the Bacon Grease
The reserved bacon grease enhances the flavor of the onions and green beans, so don’t skip this step. - Adjust the Sweetness
If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of brown sugar or omit it altogether. For a slightly tangy twist, add a splash of apple cider vinegar. - Add Extra Veggies
For a heartier side dish, toss in sliced mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or halved cherry tomatoes.
Creative Variations
- Spicy Green Beans
Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist. - Garlic Butter Green Beans
Skip the brown sugar and soy sauce, and double the butter for a rich, garlic-forward flavor. - Loaded Green Beans
Top the finished dish with shredded cheese, more crispy bacon, and a dollop of sour cream for a loaded-style variation. - Vegetarian Option
Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor. - Green Beans with Ham
Swap the bacon for diced ham or leftover holiday ham for a delicious alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Texas Roadhouse typically uses canned or frozen green beans for their green bean side dish. These options are convenient, ensure consistency, and hold up well during cooking. However, fresh green beans can be used at home for a slightly firmer texture and fresher taste.
Green beans taste better when paired with complementary ingredients like bacon, onions, garlic, and chicken broth. These additions add depth, smokiness, and richness. Seasonings like salt, pepper, and a touch of brown sugar enhance their natural flavor, while a splash of vinegar or lemon juice can add brightness.
Yes, Texas Roadhouse green beans typically contain butter, which is a dairy product. However, the amount is small and mainly used to enhance the richness of the dish. For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based alternative.
Yes, Texas Roadhouse green beans can be keto-friendly, as they are low in carbs and feature ingredients like green beans, bacon, and chicken broth. To keep them keto, skip any added brown sugar or sweeteners.
Texas Roadhouse is most famous for its hand-cut steaks, buttery rolls served with cinnamon honey butter, and hearty Southern-inspired dishes. The relaxed, roadhouse-style atmosphere and generous portions make it a favorite for casual dining and comfort food enthusiasts.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200–250 |
| Protein | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Sodium | 800mg |
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Final Thoughts
Texas Roadhouse green beans are a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for elevating any meal. Whether you’re serving them as a weeknight side dish or adding them to your holiday table, their smoky, savory flavors are guaranteed to impress.
The best part? This recipe is easy to customize. From adding extra veggies to adjusting the sweetness or heat, you can make this dish your own. Once you try these green beans, they’ll become a staple in your recipe rotation.
Give this recipe a try, and let me know how it turns out—happy cooking! 🥬✨
