Cheesy Bacon Green Bean Bundles (Print)

Green beans, bacon, and cheese create savory bundles, crisped and baked for a delicious appetizer or side.

# Components:

→ Vegetables

01 - 10 oz fresh green beans, trimmed

→ Cheese Filling

02 - 2 oz cream cheese, softened
03 - 2 oz shredded cheddar cheese
04 - 1 clove garlic, minced
05 - 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped (optional)
06 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Meats

07 - 6 slices thin-cut bacon

→ Glaze

08 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
09 - 1 tablespoon brown sugar
10 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
02 - Blanch green beans in boiling salted water for 2 to 3 minutes until vibrant and slightly tender. Drain and transfer to an ice bath to halt cooking. Drain again and pat dry.
03 - In a mixing bowl, blend cream cheese, cheddar cheese, minced garlic, chives (if desired), and black pepper until smooth.
04 - Separate the green beans into 6 equal portions. Spread a layer of cheese mixture onto each bacon slice.
05 - Arrange a portion of green beans at one end of each bacon slice and roll up tightly to secure bundles. Place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
06 - Combine olive oil, brown sugar, and smoked paprika. Brush glaze over each bacon bundle using a pastry brush.
07 - Bake for 22 to 25 minutes until bacon is crisp and cheese is bubbling. Optionally, broil 1 to 2 minutes for enhanced crispness.
08 - Allow bundles to rest on the tray for 3 to 5 minutes before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in under an hour even for beginners
  • Uses basic ingredients most kitchens have right now
  • Crowd-pleasing flavor that works for family dinners or parties
  • Prep ahead and bake later for stress-free entertaining
02 -
  • High in flavor with fewer carbs than many starters
  • Can be made gluten free always check labeled ingredients
  • Works for potlucks or holiday buffets and makes weeknight veggies exciting
  • The smoky paprika in the glaze really ties the flavors together
03 -
  • Always dry the green beans thoroughly after blanching or the cheese will slide off
  • Space bundles apart on the baking sheet This ensures even crisping and avoids steaming
  • Choose thinner bacon so it crisps at the same time the beans become tender If your bacon is thick partially cook it first
  • I once tried skipping the glaze and regretted it that sticky sweet smoky layer is pure magic
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