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Texas Roadhouse green beans recipe served in a white bowl with garlic, onion, and red pepper flakes

Texas Roadhouse Green Beans (Vegetarian Copycat)

This easy, meat-free version of Texas Roadhouse green beans brings together tender green beans, caramelized onion, garlic, and a sweet-savory broth. It’s the perfect comforting side dish for any meal, made in under 30 minutes using pantry staples.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: dinner, holiday sides
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 90
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp Olive oil Or neutral oil for sautéing
  • 1 medium Onion Yellow or sweet finely chopped
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh minced
  • 4 cups Green beans Canned fresh, or frozen
  • ¾ cup Vegetable broth Or water but broth adds more flavor
  • 1.5 tbsp Brown sugar Adjust to taste
  • 1 tsp Soy sauce Or vegetarian Worcestershire sauce
  • to taste Salt & black pepper Start light adjust after simmering
  • pinch Red pepper flakes Optional for heat
  • splash Apple cider vinegar Optional to balance sweetness
  • dash Liquid smoke Optional for smoky flavor

Equipment

  • 1 Skillet or saucepan Medium size, for stovetop cooking
  • 1 Wooden spoon For stirring ingredients
  • 1 Knife For chopping onion and garlic
  • 1 Cutting Board Prep surface for ingredients

Method
 

  1. Sauté the onion: In a skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil and sauté chopped onion for 3–5 minutes until soft and golden.
  2. Add garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
  3. Build the broth: Pour in vegetable broth, brown sugar, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  4. Add green beans: Add canned (drained), frozen, or fresh green beans. Simmer on low for 10–15 minutes until tender.
  5. Finish the flavor: Add red pepper flakes and a splash of vinegar or liquid smoke, if using. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  6. Let it rest: Remove from heat and let sit for 5–10 minutes before serving to deepen the flavor.

Notes

  • Canned green beans are soft and soak up flavor fast, but you can also use fresh or frozen, just adjust the cook time.
  • To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
  • For a smoky flavor without bacon, add a drop of liquid smoke or a pinch of smoked paprika.
  • This dish can be made ahead, it reheats beautifully!