I’ve always loved the green beans at Texas Roadhouse—they’re the perfect side that complements any hearty meal. There’s something special about their savory flavor and just the right amount of seasoning that makes them irresistible.
Recreating this classic dish at home is easier than you might think. With a few simple ingredients and a touch of love, you can bring that restaurant-quality taste right to your kitchen. Let me show you how to make your own Texas Roadhouse green beans copycat recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice (optional)
- 2 tablespoons water or chicken broth
Tools And Equipment
To master this Texas Roadhouse Green Beans copycat recipe, having the right tools at your fingertips is essential. Here’s what I use in my kitchen:
- Large Skillet or Sauté Pan
A heavy-bottomed skillet ensures even heat distribution, allowing the green beans to cook uniformly without burning.
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife
Perfect for trimming the green beans and finely mincing the garlic, ensuring consistent texture in every bite.
- Measuring Spoons
Accurate measurements of spices and liquids are crucial for achieving that authentic Texas Roadhouse flavor.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
Ideal for stirring the green beans gently, preventing them from breaking while mixing in the seasoning.
- Garlic Press (Optional)
Speeds up the mincing process, giving you finely minced garlic with minimal effort.
- Ladle or Small Bowl
Useful for measuring and adding liquids like water or chicken broth precisely.
- Chef’s Knife
A versatile tool for various cutting tasks, ensuring all ingredients are prepared to perfection.
Having these tools ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable, bringing the restaurant-quality green beans right to your home kitchen.
Directions
Bringing the rich flavors of Texas Roadhouse into your kitchen is easy with these simple steps. Let me guide you through preparing these delicious green beans.
Prep
- Trim the Green Beans: Rinse 1 pound of fresh green beans under cold water. Snap off the tough stems at both ends and set aside.
- Mince the Garlic: Peel 3 cloves of garlic and mince them finely using a garlic press or a sharp knife.
- Measure the Spices: Gather 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, ¼ teaspoon of onion powder, and ¼ teaspoon of smoked paprika.
- Prepare the Lemon Juice (Optional): If you prefer a hint of citrus, squeeze fresh lemons to obtain 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.
- Measure the Liquid: Prepare 2 tablespoons of water or chicken broth to add depth to the flavor.
Cook
- Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and let it melt, coating the pan evenly.
- Sauté the Garlic: Once the butter is melted and starts to foam, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly golden, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
- Add the Green Beans: Toss the trimmed green beans into the skillet. Stir them well to ensure they’re thoroughly coated with the garlic butter.
- Season the Beans: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, ¼ teaspoon of onion powder, and ¼ teaspoon of smoked paprika. Stir continuously to distribute the spices evenly, enhancing every bite with savory goodness.
- Steam the Beans: Pour in 2 tablespoons of water or chicken broth. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the beans steam for 5-7 minutes, achieving a tender-crisp texture that maintains their vibrant green color.
- Reduce the Liquid: Remove the lid and continue to cook the green beans for another 2-3 minutes. This step allows any remaining liquid to evaporate, intensifying the flavors and ensuring the beans are perfectly glazed.
Assemble
- Add Lemon Juice (Optional): For a fresh finish, drizzle 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice over the cooked green beans. Toss gently to combine, adding a zesty brightness that complements the savory seasoning.
- Serve: Transfer the green beans to a serving dish, arranging them neatly to showcase their glossy, flavorful coating.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately while hot, relishing the rich, buttery taste and the subtle hints of garlic and spices that mirror the beloved Texas Roadhouse original.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing these Texas Roadhouse-style green beans ahead of time ensures a stress-free meal preparation experience. Here’s how I make them in advance:
- Cook the Green Beans
Follow the recipe to sauté and season the green beans until they are tender-crisp.
- Cool Completely
Allow the green beans to cool at room temperature. This helps prevent condensation and maintains their texture.
- Store Properly
Transfer the cooled green beans to an airtight container. I prefer using glass containers for better sealing and freshness.
- Choose Your Storage Method
| Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 3 days |
| Freezer | Up to 2 months |
- Reheating Instructions
- Stovetop
Place the green beans in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to restore moisture. Stir occasionally and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave
Transfer the green beans to a microwave-safe dish. Cover and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
- Freshen Up Before Serving
After reheating, taste the green beans and adjust the seasoning if necessary. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can revitalize the flavors and add a bright finish.
Tip: If freezing the green beans, consider blanching them briefly before storing. This helps preserve their color and texture for a better reheating experience.
Conclusion
Making Texas Roadhouse-style green beans at home has become one of my favorite kitchen projects. It’s amazing how a few simple ingredients can transform fresh green beans into a mouthwatering side dish. Every time I prepare this recipe, I feel proud knowing I can enjoy restaurant-quality flavors right at my table. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, these green beans are sure to impress. Give it a try and savor the delicious taste that’s both comforting and satisfying.
