Easy Garlic Butter Sautéed Green Beans and Mushrooms is a simple, flavorful side dish that brings together crisp green beans, tender mushrooms, and rich garlic butter in one skillet. This recipe is perfect when you want something fresh, comforting, and quick, whether it’s for a busy weeknight dinner or a special family meal.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Garlic Butter Sautéed Green Beans and Mushrooms
This dish checks all the boxes for a reliable go-to vegetable side. It’s fast, uses basic ingredients, and delivers big flavor without being heavy. The green beans stay bright and slightly crisp, while the mushrooms add an earthy depth that pairs beautifully with buttery garlic.
You’ll also love how versatile it is. It works just as well alongside chicken, fish, or beef as it does next to pasta or rice. Best of all, it’s made in one pan, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
Ingredients for Easy Garlic Butter Sautéed Green Beans and Mushrooms
Main Ingredients
- Fresh green beans – trimmed
- Mushrooms – button or cremini, sliced
- Butter – unsalted works best
- Garlic – freshly minced
- Olive oil – optional, for balanced sautéing
- Salt – to taste
- Black pepper – freshly ground
Ingredient Notes
- Green beans: Fresh green beans give the best texture. If using frozen, thaw and pat them dry first.
- Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms add a deeper flavor, but white button mushrooms work perfectly.
- Butter swaps: You can use olive oil or plant-based butter for a lighter or dairy-free version.
- Extra flavor: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice at the end adds brightness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Green Beans
Bring a pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3–4 minutes, just until they turn bright green and are slightly tender. Drain immediately and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking. Set aside.
Step 2 – Sauté the Mushrooms
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and olive oil if using. Once melted, add the sliced mushrooms in a single layer. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and turn golden brown.
Step 3 – Add Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly. The garlic should become fragrant but not browned.
Step 4 – Combine and Season
Add the blanched green beans to the skillet. Toss everything together so the beans are coated in the garlic butter. Season with salt and black pepper.
Step 5 – Finish and Serve
Cook for another 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking mushrooms; this helps them brown instead of steam.
- Blanching the green beans first keeps them vibrant and prevents overcooking.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
- Add butter at the right heat level to avoid burning.
- Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice for extra freshness.
Flavor Variations
- Parmesan Style: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese just before serving.
- Lemon Garlic: Add lemon zest and juice for a bright twist.
- Herb-Infused: Stir in fresh thyme, parsley, or rosemary.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
- Asian-Inspired: Finish with a splash of low-sodium soy sauce and sesame oil.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or steak. It also works well as a side for pasta dishes or served over rice or quinoa for a light vegetarian meal. For holidays, it’s a wonderful alternative to heavier vegetable casseroles.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Freezing is not recommended, as the green beans may lose their crisp texture.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~140 |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 9g |
| Fat | 11g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 180mg |
FAQ About Easy Garlic Butter Sautéed Green Beans and Mushrooms
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead and reheat gently before serving. For best texture, slightly undercook the vegetables initially.
Are frozen green beans okay to use?
They can work in a pinch, but fresh green beans provide better texture and flavor. Be sure to thaw and dry frozen beans first.
What mushrooms work best?
Button and cremini mushrooms are ideal, but portobello slices also work if you want a meatier texture.
How do I keep the garlic from burning?
Add the garlic after the mushrooms are cooked and keep the heat at medium. Garlic cooks very quickly.
Is this recipe suitable for special diets?
Yes. It’s naturally gluten-free and can easily be made dairy-free with olive oil or plant-based butter.
Easy Garlic Butter Sautéed Green Beans and Mushrooms
Equipment
- large pot For blanching green beans
- colander
- large skillet
- wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 450 g fresh green beans, trimmed
- 225 g mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional)
- salt, to taste
- black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
Instructions
- Bring a pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3–4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking. Set aside.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and olive oil if using. Once melted, add the sliced mushrooms in a single layer and cook for 5–6 minutes until golden and tender.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
- Add the blanched green beans to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Cook for another 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through. Taste, adjust seasoning, and serve immediately.
Notes
Nutrition
Final Thoughts
Easy Garlic Butter Sautéed Green Beans and Mushrooms is a dependable side dish that never disappoints. With simple ingredients and classic flavors, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Whether for everyday dinners or special occasions, this dish proves that vegetables can be both easy and delicious.
