Hey there, friends! You know those days when you just need a quick, yet impressive side dish that feels like a total win at the dinner table? Well, this Instant Pot Garlic Green Beans recipe is about to be your new best friend. Bursting with garlicky goodness, vibrant green hues, and just the perfect tender-crisp texture, these beans are as easy to make as they are delicious. Trust me, they’ll win over even the picky eaters at your table!
If your dinner plate is feeling a little “meh,” these garlicky green beans will kick things up a notch—without breaking a sweat!
### Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a one-pot wonder, thanks to the trusty Instant Pot.
- Ready in under 15 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner guests.
- No fancy ingredients here—just simple, wholesome flavors that shine.
- Kid-friendly and crowd-approved. Who knew green beans could be this much of a hit?
### Ingredients Breakdown
Essentials
- Fresh Green Beans: Aim for bright, firm beans. If fresh isn’t available, frozen also works (no need to thaw!)
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic creates that wow-worthy, buttery flavor.
- Olive Oil or Butter: Pick your favorite! Olive oil keeps it light, while butter adds richness.
- Vegetable Broth: For steaming in your Instant Pot and adding a subtle depth of flavor. Water works in a pinch, too.
- Salt and Pepper: The ultimate flavor boosters.
Pro Tips
- Got extra garlic lying around? Don’t skimp—more garlic really takes this dish to the next level.
- If using frozen green beans, opt for whole beans, not pre-chopped. They hold up better during cooking.
### Step-by-Step Instructions
- Trim & Wash: Rinse the green beans and trim the ends. This quick prep step makes a big difference in presentation and texture.
- Sauté the Garlic: Set your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Add olive oil or butter, and sauté the garlic until fragrant—about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn it!
- Add the Broth: Pour the vegetable broth into the pot and scrape up any garlic bits that may have stuck to the bottom. This avoids the dreaded “burn” notice!
- Add Green Beans: Place the green beans in the pot, stirring to coat them in that garlicky goodness.
- Seal & Cook: Set your Instant Pot to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode on high for 1 minute (yes, just one minute!). Don’t worry—the magic happens quickly here.
- Quick Release: Once cooking time is up, do a quick pressure release. Carefully open the lid and give the beans a stir.
- Season & Serve: Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy!
### Chef’s Tips and Tricks
- Want your green beans softer? Add an extra minute to the cooking time or let them sit in the residual steam for a bit longer.
- For an added touch of fancy, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
- Avoid overcrowding your pot—if you’re doubling the recipe, cook in batches.
### Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Dairy-Free/Vegan: Stick with olive oil and skip the Parmesan for a plant-based treat.
- Pairing Ideas: These green beans make a dreamy side dish for roasts, grilled chicken, or even a simple pasta dish.
### FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?
A: Absolutely! You can make the green beans ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Q: Can I freeze cooked green beans?
A: Yes, but keep in mind that the texture may become softer upon reheating. They’re best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated short-term.
Q: What if I don’t have an Instant Pot?
A: No worries! You can steam the beans on the stovetop using a pot with a steaming basket or even sauté them in a skillet.
### Recipe Card
Instant Pot Garlic Green Beans
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Set Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and heat olive oil or butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes.
- Add vegetable broth, followed by the green beans.
- Close the lid, set to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode on high, and cook for 1 minute.
- Quick release the pressure, stir, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.
These delectable green beans come together in no time and bring fresh, vibrant flavor to any meal. When you try them, be sure to let me know how they turned out in the comments below or tag your creations on social media with #TheKitchensAid. I can’t wait to see your take on this recipe!
