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Crispy bacon wrapped green bean bundles fresh from the oven

Bacon Wrapped Green Bean Bundles with Brown Sugar Glaze

These bacon wrapped green bean bundles combine crisp-tender green beans with smoky bacon and a buttery brown sugar glaze for an easy yet elegant side dish. Perfect for holidays or weeknight dinners, these bacon wrapped green bean bundles bake up caramelized, savory-sweet, and irresistibly delicious every time.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 160
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

Equipment

  • Rimmed baking sheet: for roasting the bundles evenly and catching any caramelized glaze
  • Parchment paper or aluminum foil: to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy
  • Wire rack (optional): helps the bacon crisp more evenly by allowing airflow underneath
  • Large pot for blanching the green beans before wrapping
  • Large bowl with ice water: to stop the cooking and keep the beans crisp-tender
  • Colander for draining the green beans thoroughly
  • Paper towels or clean kitchen towel: o dry the green beans so the bacon crisps properly
  • Small mixing bowl: for whisking the butter and brown sugar glaze
  • Whisk or fork: to combine the glaze ingredients smoothly
  • Pastry brush: for brushing the glaze evenly over the bundles

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil (and a wire rack if you have one).
  2. Blanch beans in boiling water for 3 minutes, then transfer to ice bath. Drain and pat dry thoroughly.
  3. Toss beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Gather 6–8 beans into a bundle and wrap with one slice of bacon. Place seam-side down on baking sheet.
  4. Whisk butter, brown sugar, soy sauce, and spices. Brush bundles generously.
  5. Bake 20–25 minutes, basting halfway, until bacon is crisp and caramelized. Serve warm.

Video

Notes

  • Air Fryer Option: Air fry at 370°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping once. Brush with the glaze at minute 5 so the sugar does not burn.
  • Grill Option: Cook over medium indirect heat for 12–15 minutes with the lid closed. Brush with glaze during the last 3 minutes and watch closely to prevent flare-ups.
  • Bundle Calculator: One pound of green beans equals about 35–40 beans. Plan for 5–6 bundles when serving as a side dish or 9–12 smaller bundles if serving as an appetizer.
  • Make-Ahead Instructions: The bundles can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Brush with glaze just before cooking for the best bacon texture.
  • Flavor Variations: Swap the brown sugar for maple syrup and add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a maple-balsamic glaze. For heat, add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper to the glaze.
  • Nutrition (per serving, 8 servings): 160 calories, 12g fat, 7g carbs, 6g protein, 1g fiber. Nutrition information is an estimate. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.
Extra Tips:
  • Dry the green beans completely after blanching, as excess moisture will prevent the bacon from crisping.
  • Regular-cut bacon works best since thick-cut bacon often finishes after the green beans are already soft.
  • Using a wire rack on the baking sheet helps the bacon crisp evenly on all sides.
  • Place the bundles seam-side down to keep the bacon from unraveling.
  • Baste halfway through cooking for deeper caramelization and serve immediately while the bacon is crisp and the glaze is glossy.