
These creamy Parmesan green beans are tender-crisp, savory, and finished with smoky bacon for a side dish that feels special without extra fuss. The garlic, cream, and cheese create a silky sauce that clings beautifully to every bean.
Place the chopped bacon in a cold large skillet, then set the skillet over high heat. Cook as the pan heats so the fat renders evenly.
Fry the bacon for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and crisp around the edges. Transfer it to a plate with a slotted spoon.
Pour off excess bacon fat, leaving about 1 1/2 tbsp in the skillet. If there is not enough fat, add a small knob of butter or a drizzle of olive oil.
Add the garlic and cook for 10 to 15 seconds, stirring constantly, just until fragrant and lightly golden.
Add the green beans and toss well so they are coated in the garlic-flavored bacon fat.
Pour in the stock, stir, and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the beans are bright green and tender-crisp.
Stir in the cream, Parmesan, and black pepper. Bring back to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 2 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Taste the sauce and season with salt only if needed, since the bacon and Parmesan are already salty.
Transfer the green beans to a serving dish. Scatter the crispy bacon over the top and finish with extra Parmesan, if desired.
For the best texture, stop cooking the beans while they are still bright green and slightly crisp; they will soften a little more in the hot cream sauce. Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother sauce, and avoid boiling the cream hard or it may split. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently in a skillet with a splash of stock or cream.




