Around the Campfire
Garlic green beans are a quick side for the night when the main dish already has plenty going on. They add color, crunch, and a fresh bite without taking over the griddle.
Why This Recipe Works
Green beans cook quickly on the Blackstone, and finishing with garlic butter gives them flavor without requiring a separate skillet.
Quick Facts
- Serves: 4
- Heat zone: Medium
- Best for: Chicken, salmon, steak, and burger nights
- Teaches: Quick vegetable finishing
Shopping List
- Green beans
- Butter
- Garlic
- Salt and pepper
- Optional lemon
Home Prep
Trim green beans before the trip and pack them dry.
Cooler Packing
Keep beans dry and away from cooler water. Keep butter cold.
Equipment
- Blackstone griddle
- Spatula
- Tongs
Heat Zones
Use medium heat and give the vegetables room to caramelize rather than steam.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the griddle to medium.
- Add green beans with a little oil or butter.
- Cook until bright and tender.
- Add garlic and butter near the end.
- Season and serve.
Doneness
Green beans should be tender but still have a little snap.
Common Mistakes
- Adding garlic too early.
- Cooking until beans go limp.
- Crowding the griddle.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with salmon, chicken, steak, burgers, or rice bowls. Squeeze fresh lemon over the top, sprinkle with Parmesan, or add sliced almonds at the table if desired.
Variations
- Add lemon.
- Add Parmesan.
- Add sliced almonds.
Dietary Adaptations
- Gluten-free: As written.
- Dairy-free: Use oil or dairy-free butter.
- Vegetarian: As written.
Scaling
Cook in batches for larger groups.
Weather Notes
This side cooks quickly, which makes it good for windy nights.
Leftovers
Use leftovers in wraps, bowls, or breakfast scrambles.
Kid Helper Tasks
Kids can add lemon or Parmesan after cooking.
Dragonfly Tip
Garlic goes in late. Burnt garlic can take over the whole plate.
Dragonfly Challenge
Try one batch with lemon and one with Parmesan. Pick the camp favorite.