Ingredients:

  • 5 cans (14.5 oz each) whole green beans, drained
  • 12 slices regular-cut bacon, chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 2/3 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup regular soy sauce
  • 1.5 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 tablespoon reserved bacon drippings

Instructions:

  1. Preheat and Prep: Set your oven to 350°F and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish lightly.
  2. Drain the Beans: Open all 5 cans of green beans and drain them thoroughly in a colander. Note: Shake the colander well to remove trapped water inside the beans.
  3. Render the Bacon: Fry the chopped bacon pieces in a skillet over medium heat until they are just starting to crisp.
  4. Save the Liquid: Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside. Reserve 1 tablespoon of the warm bacon drippings.
  5. Arrange the Foundation: Place the drained green beans in the baking dish and scatter the par cooked bacon evenly over the top.
  6. Emulsify the Glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.
  7. Add the Secret: Stir that reserved tablespoon of bacon drippings into the glaze until the mixture is shimmering and smooth.
  8. Coating the Dish: Pour the glaze evenly over the beans and bacon, ensuring every bean gets a little bit of the liquid.
  9. Bake to Finish: Place in the oven for 35 minutes until the sauce is bubbling and the bacon is fully browned.
  10. Rest and Set: Let the dish sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the glaze to thicken as it cools slightly.