... Read moreHey everyone! If you're anything like me, you're always looking for new ways to make simple side dishes amazing, especially on the Blackstone griddle. I absolutely love cooking fresh green beans on my Blackstone, and once you try it, you'll understand why! They come out perfectly crisp-tender with that fantastic griddle sear, and it's so quick.
I usually start by trimming my fresh green beans and giving them a good wash. The beauty of the Blackstone is how fast it cooks, so prep is key. I like to preheat my griddle to a medium-high heat. A little oil or butter goes down first – bacon grease works wonders if you have some! Then, I spread out the beans in a single layer as much as possible. This is crucial for getting that lovely char. I'll often add a splash of water or broth and quickly cover them with a dome for a few minutes to steam them just a bit, which helps them cook through while staying vibrant.
Now, for the flavor! My absolute favorite way to make these involves a few key ingredients, many of which I saw in the images you posted showcasing the ingredients (minced garlic, butter, Tajin seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and bacon pieces – yes!). I usually chop up some bacon and cook it on the griddle first until it's crispy. Then, I remove the bacon, leaving some of that delicious grease behind. I add the green beans, and after a few minutes, I toss in a generous amount of minced garlic. The aroma is incredible! A knob of butter melts beautifully over everything, coating the beans. For an extra kick, a dash of Worcestershire sauce adds a deep savory note, and a sprinkle of Tajin seasoning gives them a zesty, slightly spicy tang that's just addictive. Once they're tender-crisp, I toss the crispy bacon back in, give it a final stir, and they're ready to serve!
Here are a few tips I've learned:
Don't overcrowd: Give your beans space to char; don't pile them up. Cook in batches if necessary.
Season throughout: A little salt and pepper at the beginning, and then again at the end, can make a big difference.
Experiment with seasonings: Besides the garlic, bacon, Tajin, and Worcestershire, try onion powder, smoked paprika, or even a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end for brightness. Sometimes I'll grate some fresh Parmesan cheese over them right before serving too – yum!
Cook to your preference: If you like them really crisp, cook them uncovered for longer. If you prefer them softer, use the dome method with a little liquid for steam.
These Blackstone green beans are such a versatile side. They go perfectly with grilled steak, chicken, or even alongside your morning eggs for a healthy and flavorful start to the day. Give this recipe a try; I promise you won't be disappointed! It's quickly become a staple in my kitchen, thanks to the magic of the Blackstone.