Skillet Green Beans

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Serves: 6-8

Ingredients

• 1 bag Trader Joe’s frozen green beans (or similar Extra Fine French Green Beans, 24 oz)

• 6-8 garlic cloves, chopped

• 1 shallot, chopped

• Salt, to taste

• Black pepper, to taste

• Garlic powder, to taste

• Cooking fat (choose one):

  • Pan drippings from cooked chicken, beef, or another protein

  • 2 slices bacon, chopped

• Optional: Red pepper flakes

• Optional: 1-2 tbsp butter 

Equipment

• Large cast-iron skillet

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Instructions

1. Thaw the green beans overnight in the refrigerator, or microwave them with 2 tbsp of water for about 5 minutes, until thawed. Drain well.

2. Choose your cooking fat:

   • Pan drippings: If you’ve just cooked chicken, beef, or another protein in a skillet, use the same pan and its drippings.

   • Bacon: Cook the chopped bacon in a large skillet until crisp. Remove the bacon and set aside.

3. Add the butter (if using) and chopped shallot to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes, until softened and fragrant. Add oil if needed.

4. Stir in the green beans and cooked bacon (if using).

5. Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to taste.

   • Add red pepper flakes, if desired.

6. Sauté for 2–4 minutes, just until the green beans are heated through. Avoid overcooking, as they’ll become soft.

7. Serve immediately.