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 long-grain rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed and cut in half; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Food Inspiration

I love making this Garlic Butter Green Bean Rice Skillet when I need a quick and satisfying meal. It combines fresh green beans with fluffy rice, all coated in rich garlic butter, creating a delightful dish that is both comforting and nutritious. The great thing is that it’s ready in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. I often serve it as a side with grilled chicken or fish, but it can easily stand on its own as a vegetarian main dish, providing a perfect medley of flavors and textures to enjoy any time.

Created by

Nicola Fairchild

Last updated on 2026-01-21T20:23:34.955Z

When I first attempted to make this Garlic Butter Green Bean Rice Skillet, I was amazed by how such simple ingredients could come together to create something so delicious. The garlic butter enhances the fresh taste of the green beans, while the rice absorbs all the flavors beautifully. I recommend using fresh green beans for a crisp bite, as they add a lovely texture.

After perfecting the timing, I found that cooking the rice with the green beans ensures everything melds perfectly. Don't hesitate to sprinkle some parmesan cheese on top before serving for an added layer of flavor. It's a dish the family eagerly requests, and I take pride in its wholesome goodness.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare in one skillet
Rich, savory flavors from garlic butter
Fresh green beans add a satisfying crunch
Perfect as a side dish or a light main course

The Importance of Garlic Butter

Garlic butter is the star of this dish, infusing the rice and green beans with a rich, savory flavor that is hard to resist. The combination of melted butter with minced garlic creates a fragrant base that elevates the entire skillet. I recommend using unsalted butter to control the salt level, allowing you to adjust the seasoning to your taste as you combine the ingredients.

When cooking the garlic, keep an eye on it to prevent burning; you want it to become fragrant and golden but not brown. This process takes about a minute over medium heat. Properly sautéed garlic adds a depth of flavor that transforms the simple ingredients into a delicious, comforting meal.

Fresh Green Beans: Tips and Tricks

Fresh green beans provide both texture and nutrition to this dish. When selecting green beans, look for bright green, firm beans without blemishes. The blanching step is crucial as it brightens their color while maintaining a satisfying crunch. Blanching for 2-3 minutes in boiling water will ensure they are tender yet retain their vibrant hue and crispness.

If fresh green beans aren't available, you can substitute them with frozen green beans. Just skip the blanching step; add them directly to the skillet with the rice and let them cook through as the dish heats. This will save you time without sacrificing flavor.

Serving and Storage Considerations

This Garlic Butter Green Bean Rice Skillet is versatile, making it an excellent side for grilled chicken, fish, or a hearty stew. For a complete meal, you might consider adding some protein like sautéed shrimp or even chickpeas for a vegetarian-friendly option. Just integrate them as you mix the green beans into the rice for an even distribution.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to revive the garlic butter sauce. If you plan to freeze this dish, consider leaving out the cheese until you reheat it, as this will help maintain its texture and flavor.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Green Bean Rice Skillet

1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups vegetable broth
2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed and cut in half
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Rice

In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the rice and stir to coat it in the butter. Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.

Cook the Green Beans

While the rice is cooking, bring a separate pot of water to a boil. Add the green beans and blanch them for about 3 minutes until they're bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.

Combine Everything

Once the rice is done, add the blanched green beans to the rice mixture. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well and heat through for another 2-3 minutes.

Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle parmesan cheese on top if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating some toasted almonds or walnuts for crunch. Adjust the seasonings to your liking, and feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to make it even more colorful!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want to customize the rice for a different flavor profile, consider using chicken broth instead of vegetable broth for a richer taste. Another option is to swap the rice for quinoa or couscous for a gluten-free alternative that will cook slightly faster.

For added flavor, you can mix in herbs like thyme or rosemary in the last few minutes of cooking. They complement the garlic butter beautifully and enhance the overall aroma of the dish. If you prefer a creamier texture, a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream at the end can enrich the dish without overwhelming it.

Key Cooking Techniques

Properly preparing the rice is crucial for a fluffy texture; ensure you do not stir it too much while it cooks. Once the broth is added, let the rice simmer covered without lifting the lid; this traps steam and helps the rice cook evenly for the full 15 minutes. At the end of the cooking time, allow it to rest off the heat for 5 minutes before fluffing it with a fork.

The texture of this dish is all about balance; aim for the green beans to maintain their al dente crunch while the rice should be fluffy and tender. To achieve this, avoid overcooking both components. The timing during the blanching and the simmering stages plays a vital role; watch for visual cues indicating readiness.

Variations to Enhance Your Dish

To give your Garlic Butter Green Bean Rice Skillet a seasonal twist, consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms. Sauté them briefly after the garlic to incorporate their flavors into the butter before adding the rice. These additions not only intensify the flavor but also add more color and nutrition.

If you enjoy a little kick, try increasing the red pepper flakes or adding a splash of hot sauce at the end. The mild spice enhances the overall flavor palette, making this dish more exciting. Another great variation is to add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving; it brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the garlic butter.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and amount of liquid. Brown rice typically takes longer, about 40-45 minutes.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat when ready to eat.

→ Can I make it vegan?

Yes! Substitute the butter with vegan butter or olive oil and omit the parmesan cheese.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs nicely with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. It also works well as a base for a protein of your choice.