Elevate the humble green bean to a new level with this recipe for BBQ Green Beans. This recipe combines the smoky goodness of bacon with the sweetness of barbecue sauce and ketchup and a tangy touch of vinegar. The perfect side dish that’s perfect for any meal but especially for your holiday table.
Jump to RecipeMy Aunt Lydia was always sharing unique recipes with our family. One of our favorites turns canned green beans into a tangy, sweet and sour side dish. Meet BBQ Green Beans.
This quick recipe starts with crisp bacon and sauteed onions. Add some vinegar, sugar, barbecue sauce, salt and pepper and heat through in the oven. This dish pairs well with just about any meat dish, and it’s perfect for a potluck.
Ingredients
Green Beans. The primary ingredient, providing a vegetable base for the dish.
Bacon. Adds a smoky and savory flavor and crispy texture to the green beans.
Onion. Contributes to the sweetness and gives this dish a savory flavor profile.
Vinegar. Provides acidity, balancing the sweetness of the bbq sauce while adding a tangy element.
Sugar. Adds sweetness, creating a harmonious flavor contrast to the savory elements.
Ketchup and Barbecue Sauce. Together, these two ingredients create a flavorful, sweet, and slightly tangy sauce for the green beans, enhancing their overall taste.

What to serve these BBQ Green Beans with?
These BBQ Green Beans pair wonderfully with a variety of proteins and main dishes. Consider serving them alongside grilled chicken, pork chops, barbecued ribs, pulled pork sandwiches, or even a classic burger. Their sweet and smoky flavors complement a wide range of barbecue and grilled dishes.
Of course, they also make a fantastic side dish alongside your turkey on Thanksgiving.
How to Make BBQ Green Beans



- Preheat oven to 350℉. Spray a 1-quart casserole dish with cooking spray.
- Drain green beans and pour into a prepared baking dish.
- In a medium skillet, fry bacon pieces until brown; add onion and continue to cook until onions are soft. Add remaining ingredients and heat through. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour onion mixture over green beans in casserole dish. Cover and bake for 20 minutes or until bubbly. Remove from oven and gently stir to incorporate sauce throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Yes, you can use fresh or frozen green beans in this recipe. If using fresh green beans, blanch them briefly in boiling water before incorporating them into the dish. Frozen green beans can be used without blanching.
White distilled vinegar or apple cider vinegar are good choices for this recipe. They provide a balanced level of acidity without overpowering the other flavors.
Yes, you can make this dish vegetarian by omitting the bacon. For a vegan version, substitute plant-based bacon or omit the bacon entirely, and ensure the barbecue sauce and ketchup are vegan-friendly.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, use a microwave or oven until heated through, or you can enjoy them cold as a salad or a topping for a bowl alongside chicken. The flavors may intensify as they sit, making them even more delicious the next day.