Garlic Butter Green Bean Rice Skillet

Name: Garlic Butter Green Bean Rice Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 cups green beans, trimmed; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Busy Recipes

I love this Garlic Butter Green Bean Rice Skillet because it combines vibrant flavors and textures in just one pan! The garlic butter sauce infuses the green beans and rice with a rich taste that is simply irresistible. This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when I want something quick yet satisfying. Plus, it's a great way to sneak in some vegetables! Each bite is a delicious reminder of how simple ingredients can create a flavorful meal the whole family will enjoy.

Created by

Wendy Ashbourne

Last updated on 2026-01-21T21:33:34.469Z

Creating the Garlic Butter Green Bean Rice Skillet was a delightful experience! I wanted to craft a meal that was both quick and comforting, and this dish did not disappoint. The aroma of garlic sizzling in butter filled my kitchen with warmth, instantly making it feel like home. When the green beans turned a vibrant green, I knew I was onto something good.

This skillet dish is also fantastic for meal prep. I like to make a bigger batch on Sundays, so I have leftovers ready for the week. It reheats beautifully without losing its flavor, making it a perfect option for lunch or dinner on busy days.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich garlic flavor that enhances the fresh green beans
One-pan dish for easy cleanup
Versatile ingredients that can be customized
Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep

      

Cooking with Fresh Green Beans

Using fresh green beans enhances both the flavor and texture of this dish. When selecting them, opt for firm, bright green beans with a crisp snap. Avoid any that are dull in color or have signs of wilting, as these will not provide the same crunch and vibrancy. Trim the ends before cooking, and consider blanching them in boiling water for a minute before sautéing, which can help maintain their vivid color and crispness while ensuring even cooking.

The sautéing process is key to achieving a nice balance in texture. When cooking the green beans, aim for them to be tender but still crisp. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes over medium heat. Stir them occasionally to ensure even cooking, and if you notice them burning or sticking, add a splash of vegetable broth to deglaze the pan and lift any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.

Butter and Garlic Flavor Profile

The combination of garlic and butter is a hallmark of this recipe, providing a rich, mouthwatering flavor that permeates the rice and green beans. Be sure to sauté the garlic just until fragrant — about one minute — as overcooking can lead to a bitter taste. If you're a garlic lover, consider adding an extra clove or two, but be cautious not to overpower the delicate flavor of the green beans.

For those looking to experiment further, you can introduce additional herbs or spices to the garlic butter. Fresh thyme or oregano pairs beautifully with green beans, and a splash of lemon juice right before serving can add a refreshing brightness that cuts through the richness of the butter.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a quick and tasty meal:

Ingredients

1 cup rice
2 cups vegetable broth
2 tablespoons garlic, minced
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cups green beans, trimmed
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure everything is fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your dish:

Cook the Rice

In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the rice and toast it for about 2 minutes before adding the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked.

Sauté the Green Beans

In a separate pan, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the trimmed green beans, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the beans are tender but still crisp.

Combine and Serve

Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add it to the skillet with the green beans. Stir to combine all ingredients well, and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Adjust seasoning if necessary, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your meal fresh and hot!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try adding some lemon juice or zest right before serving. It brightens the dish and complements the garlic beautifully!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Garlic Butter Green Bean Rice Skillet is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can prepare the rice in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to four days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the rice in the skillet, adding a bit of vegetable broth to moisten it, and then mix in quickly sautéed green beans. This method helps keep the dish's flavors fresh without needing to start from scratch every time.

If you're looking to freeze the dish, allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before warming in a skillet over low heat. Adding a little more butter or broth can help restore its creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

This dish makes a wonderful side, but it can also be elevated to a main course by adding protein. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed tofu can be mixed in. For a heartier option, you might consider topping it with a fried egg, adding an attractive presentation and extra protein that complements the earthy flavors of the garlic and green beans.

Pair the Garlic Butter Green Bean Rice Skillet with a light salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter. A citrus-based vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the butter and the savory components of the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid according to the package instructions for brown rice.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or even peas for more color and nutrition.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! Cook it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat before serving.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Using gluten-free rice will make it gluten-free, but be sure to check the vegetable broth for gluten content.