Savory Green Bean Bundles Wrapped in Bacon

Ingredients

• Green beans (1 pound, trimmed)
• Bacon (8 slices, cut in half)
• Butter (2 tablespoons, melted)
• Brown sugar (2 tablespoons)
• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon)
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon)
• Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon)
• Toothpicks (as needed)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
2. Blanch the green beans in a pot of boiling water for 2 minutes to brighten their color and soften them slightly. Drain and immediately rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
3. Take a handful of green beans (about 5-7) and tightly wrap them with a half slice of bacon. Secure the bundle with a toothpick and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat until all green beans are wrapped.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. Drizzle this mixture generously over the green bean bundles, ensuring they are coated evenly.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the green beans are tender yet still vibrant in color.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving warm. Enjoy the delightful crunch of the bacon paired with the fresh taste of the green beans!