Texas Roadhouse Copycat Green Beans – Best Recipe Ever

There’s nothing quite like the flavor-packed comfort of Texas Roadhouse Copycat Green Beans. This easy side dish brings the savory, smoky taste of restaurant-style green beans right to your kitchen — no reservation required. Made with crispy bacon, tender green beans, and a garlic-onion base, this recipe delivers bold Southern charm in every bite. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or planning a holiday spread, this crowd-pleaser is quick to make, family-friendly, and pairs beautifully with almost any main course.

Why You’ll Love These Copycat Green Beans

This Texas Roadhouse Copycat Green Beans recipe stands out for its rich, home-style flavor and simplicity. It’s a perfect balance of savory bacon, tender-crisp green beans, and aromatic garlic and onion — all simmered in a seasoned broth that mimics the restaurant favorite. Not only is it budget-friendly and quick to prepare (ready in about 35 minutes), but it also scales easily for family dinners, potlucks, or holidays. Plus, with a few smart swaps, it’s adaptable for vegetarian or low-sodium diets.

What You’ll Need to Make This Dish

  • Fresh Green Beans: The star of the show, providing crisp texture and bright flavor
  • Bacon: Adds smokiness and savory depth — a true signature of the dish
  • Onion: Brings a mild sweetness and enhances the umami base
  • Garlic: Delivers that essential aromatic kick
  • Chicken Broth: Infuses the green beans with rich, comforting flavor
  • Water: Helps balance the broth and ensures even cooking
  • Salt: Enhances all the natural flavors
  • Black Pepper: Adds mild heat and earthy depth
  • Red Pepper Flakes (optional): Introduces a subtle kick for those who like a little spice
  • Butter: Rounds out the dish with creamy richness
  • Lemon Wedges (optional): Offers a bright, fresh finish when served

Ingredient Swaps and Substitutions

  • Turkey Bacon: For a leaner option without losing that smoky touch
  • Olive Oil: Use in place of bacon drippings for a vegetarian version
  • Vegetable Broth: Swap with chicken broth for a plant-based twist
  • Shallots: Can replace onions for a milder, slightly sweet flavor
  • Garlic Powder: Use if fresh garlic is unavailable (1/4 tsp per clove)
  • Frozen Green Beans: A time-saving option; just reduce cooking time slightly
  • Unsalted Butter: Great for those watching sodium intake

How to Make Texas Roadhouse Copycat Green Beans

  1. Cook the Bacon
    In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove and set it aside, keeping the flavorful bacon drippings in the pan.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics
    Add the diced onion to the pan and cook for 3–4 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook another 1–2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Add Green Beans and Broth
    Toss in the trimmed green beans, pour in the chicken broth and water. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well to combine.
  4. Simmer to Tenderness
    Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beans are tender but still slightly crisp.
  5. Finish and Serve
    Remove the lid, add the reserved bacon and butter. Stir to combine and cook an additional 2–3 minutes to blend the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.

Expert Tips for Southern-Style Perfection

  • Don’t overcook: Aim for tender yet crisp beans to preserve texture and nutrients
  • Use fresh beans: Freshly trimmed green beans yield the best flavor and snap
  • Deglaze with broth: Scrape up any browned bits when adding broth for extra depth
  • Balance the fat: Use butter sparingly if you prefer a lighter finish
  • Batch ahead: This recipe reheats well and tastes even better the next day

Serving Suggestions and Tasty Variations

These Texas Roadhouse Copycat Green Beans pair wonderfully with grilled meats like steak or chicken, or Southern favorites like meatloaf or pulled pork. For a full comfort meal, serve with mashed potatoes, cornbread, or baked mac and cheese.

Variations to Try:

  • Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce
  • Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free as written — just double-check broth labels
  • Holiday Upgrade: Top with crispy shallots or chopped pecans for a festive twist
  • Low-Sodium: Use reduced-sodium broth and skip added salt
  • Vegetarian Delight: Omit bacon, use olive oil, and swap in vegetable broth

A Year-Round Side Dish with Southern Soul

While these green beans are especially popular at holiday tables, their bold, hearty flavor makes them a year-round staple. From Sunday suppers to weeknight meals, this Texas Roadhouse Copycat Green Beans recipe brings authentic Southern taste straight to your table. With everyday ingredients and easy steps, it’s a no-fuss way to enjoy a restaurant-quality side at home — fast, flavorful, and full of down-home comfort.

Bringing It All Together

If you’ve been craving the warm, comforting flavors of a steakhouse side without leaving home, these Texas Roadhouse Copycat Green Beans deliver every time. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this dish proves that you don’t need complex ingredients to create something memorable. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just looking to elevate a weeknight dinner, this savory, smoky green bean recipe fits the bill — and it’s sure to become a favorite on your table.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I store leftover Texas Roadhouse green beans?

Store any leftover green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth to maintain moisture if needed.

Can I make this green bean recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dish a day in advance. Prepare it fully, then cool and refrigerate. Reheat over low heat before serving and stir in a fresh pat of butter to revive the richness.

What can I use instead of bacon for a vegetarian version?

For a vegetarian take on Texas Roadhouse Copycat Green Beans, omit the bacon and sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to maintain depth of flavor.

Can I use canned green beans instead of fresh?

While fresh green beans offer the best texture and taste, you can use canned green beans in a pinch. Reduce the simmering time significantly, as canned beans are already soft. Be sure to drain and rinse them well before cooking.

More Relevant Recipes

  • Stick of Butter Rice – Easy Baked Side Dish: This indulgent rice recipe shares the same Southern-inspired comfort food vibe as Texas Roadhouse Copycat Green Beans. Baked with butter and broth, it’s a rich and satisfying companion side dish for any meat-based main.
  • Cheesy Potatoes with Smoked Sausage: Loaded with hearty ingredients, this dish brings smoky sausage and creamy potatoes together in a rustic, down-home fashion. It complements the flavors and style of smoky, buttery green beans perfectly.
  • French Onion Meatloaf: A savory, flavorful twist on classic meatloaf, this recipe features caramelized onions and rich seasoning that align with the umami-packed taste of Texas Roadhouse-style dishes — ideal for serving alongside green beans.
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Texas Roadhouse Copycat Green Beans

Texas Roadhouse Copycat Green Beans


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  • Author: Elina
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4–6 servings
  • Diet: Low Salt

Description

Texas Roadhouse Copycat Green Beans are a savory Southern-style side dish made with fresh green beans, crispy bacon, onion, garlic, and seasoned chicken broth. It’s a quick and comforting recipe that brings the flavors of the famous steakhouse right to your kitchen.


Ingredients

  • 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
  • 4 slices bacon, diced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)


Instructions

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving drippings in the pan.
  2. Add diced onion to the pan and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 1–2 more minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add the trimmed green beans to the pan along with chicken broth and water. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well.
  4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until green beans are tender but still crisp.
  5. Remove the lid, stir in the cooked bacon and butter. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes to combine flavors.
  6. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, omit bacon and use olive oil instead of drippings.
  • Use reduced-sodium broth and unsalted butter for a low-salt version.
  • Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
  • For extra flavor, add a dash of smoked paprika or a splash of lemon juice before serving.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American, Southern

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 120
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

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