If you’re looking for a simple yet satisfying vegetable side, Garlic Butter Sautéed Green Beans and Mushrooms is the perfect answer. This easy skillet recipe combines crisp green beans, tender mushrooms, and rich garlic butter into a dish that feels comforting, fresh, and flavorful all at once. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights, but polished enough to serve at holiday dinners or family gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Sautéed Green Beans and Mushrooms
This recipe checks all the right boxes. It uses everyday ingredients, comes together in one pan, and delivers big flavor without complicated steps. The green beans stay vibrant and slightly crisp, while the mushrooms add a savory, earthy depth. Garlic butter ties everything together, making this side dish irresistible even to picky eaters.
It’s also incredibly versatile. Serve it alongside chicken, beef, fish, or vegetarian mains. It works just as well for meal prep as it does for a special occasion spread.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of simple ingredients to make this dish shine:
- Fresh green beans, trimmed
- Mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
- Butter
- Garlic, minced
- Olive oil (optional, for extra sautéing control)
- Salt
- Black pepper
These pantry staples come together to create a rich, savory side that tastes far more complex than it is.
How to Make Garlic Butter Sautéed Green Beans and Mushrooms
Step 1: Prep the Vegetables
Wash and trim the green beans, snapping off the ends. Slice the mushrooms evenly so they cook at the same rate.
Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add butter (and a little olive oil if desired). Once melted, add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and turn golden brown.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn.
Step 4: Cook the Green Beans
Add the green beans to the skillet. Sauté for several minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender-crisp and well coated in the garlic butter.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve warm straight from the skillet.
Tips & Variations
- Extra brightness: Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
- Herbs: Fresh parsley or thyme adds a lovely aroma.
- Dairy-free option: Swap butter for plant-based butter or olive oil.
- More veggies: Onions or bell peppers pair beautifully here.
Serving Ideas & Storage
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, baked fish, or hearty grain bowls. It also works as a light vegetarian main when served over rice or quinoa.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain texture.
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Garlic Butter Sautéed Green Beans and Mushrooms
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick, vibrant side dish featuring crisp-tender green beans and savory mushrooms sautéed in rich garlic butter. Perfect for weeknight dinners, holidays, or meal prep—made in one skillet with simple ingredients and big flavor.
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) fresh green beans, trimmed
8 oz (225g) mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
3 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil (optional)
1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
1/4 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
1 tsp lemon juice (optional, for serving)
1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
1. Prep the veggies: Trim green beans and slice mushrooms evenly.
2. Sauté mushrooms: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add butter (and olive oil if using). Add mushrooms and cook 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release moisture and turn golden.
3. Add garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant (don’t let it brown).
4. Cook green beans: Add green beans to the skillet. Sauté 6–8 minutes, stirring, until beans are bright green and crisp-tender.
5. Season: Add salt and black pepper to taste. Add red pepper flakes if using.
6. Finish and serve: Remove from heat. Optional: squeeze lemon juice and sprinkle parsley. Serve warm.
Notes
For extra-tender beans, blanch green beans 2–3 minutes in boiling water, then drain before sautéing.
Dairy-free: swap butter for plant-based butter or use all olive oil.
Storage: refrigerate in an airtight container up to 3 days; reheat gently in a skillet.
Best texture tip: don’t overcrowd the pan—use a wide skillet for better browning.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sauté
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~120 |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 9g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | ~180mg |
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Sautéed Green Beans and Mushrooms proves that simple ingredients can deliver outstanding flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting guests, this quick side dish is sure to earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.