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: 2 cups long grain rice, rinsed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Zest of 1 lemon (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Busy Meals

I absolutely love this Garlic Butter Green Bean Rice Skillet! It's a quick, one-pan dish that combines perfectly cooked rice with tender green beans, all enveloped in a luscious garlic butter sauce. The flavors meld together beautifully, creating a comforting meal that I can whip up in just 30 minutes. Whether served as a side or a main course, this dish pleases everyone at the table, and I always add it to my weekly meal rotation for its simplicity and delightful taste.

Created by

Honor Blackwell

Last updated on 2026-01-21T18:14:36.519Z

I remember the first time I made this Garlic Butter Green Bean Rice Skillet; it became an instant hit! I was looking for a way to use fresh green beans from my garden, and this recipe emerged as a delightful surprise. The combination of savory garlic and rich butter with perfectly steamed rice and vibrant green beans created such a comforting dish.

Over time, I perfected my technique by ensuring that I sauté the garlic just until fragrant and adding a hint of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. It not only enhances the overall dish but makes it more vibrant and intriguing. I can confidently say that it’s a recipe I'm proud to share with family and friends!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A delightful balance of savory garlic and rich butter flavor
Quick and easy one-pan dish perfect for busy weeknights
Fresh green beans add a pleasant crunch and vibrant color

      

The Role of Garlic and Butter

Garlic and butter are essential components of this dish, working together to create a rich, savory sauce that enhances the overall flavor profile. The process of sautéing garlic in melted butter allows its natural oils to infuse the fat, resulting in a fragrant base. Be careful not to overcook the garlic, as it can become bitter; sauté just until it turns golden and fragrant, about 30 seconds.

The use of unsalted butter in this recipe not only adds depth to the flavors but also allows you to control the amount of salt in the dish. If you're looking to make this recipe dairy-free, you can substitute coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative, while still achieving a similar richness without compromising on the overall taste.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

Cooking the rice correctly is fundamental to this recipe's success. Make sure to rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking; this removes excess starch that can make the rice gummy. For a perfect texture, bring the vegetable broth to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer with the lid on. This gentle cooking method ensures that the rice absorbs the liquid evenly and becomes fluffy.

When sautéing the green beans, aim for a vibrant green color and tender-crisp texture. Overcooking can lead to a mushy outcome, so keep an eye on them. They should retain their structure after cooking for 5 to 7 minutes, providing a pleasant crunch that balances the softness of the rice.

Storage and Variations

This Garlic Butter Green Bean Rice Skillet is great for meal prep! After cooking, let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Storing in the fridge will keep it fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to enjoy it later, feel free to freeze portions. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to prevent it from drying out.

To customize this dish further, consider adding protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it heartier. You can also experiment with different vegetables; asparagus or snap peas work wonderfully in place of green beans. For a slightly spicy kick, try adding red pepper flakes to the garlic as it sizzles in the butter.

Ingredients

For the Skillet

2 cups long grain rice, rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth
2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Rice

In a large skillet, combine the rinsed rice and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 15 minutes until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed.

Sauté the Green Beans

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the green beans and cook for 5-7 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.

Combine and Season

Once the rice is cooked, add it to the skillet with the sautéed green beans and garlic. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Gently stir everything together until well combined.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Green Bean Rice Skillet!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding some grated Parmesan cheese or red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.

Serving Suggestions

This Garlic Butter Green Bean Rice Skillet can serve as a comforting base for various proteins, such as pan-seared salmon, grilled tofu, or roasted chicken. Placing your protein on top not only elevates the dish visually but also adds layers of flavor that complement the garlic butter.

If you’d like to make this dish even more festive, consider adding toasted slivered almonds or pine nuts for a crunchy texture. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese just before serving can also enhance the dish with a creamy umami flavor that pairs beautifully with the garlicky rice.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your rice turns out sticky or clumpy, it could be due to insufficient rinsing or cooking at too high of a heat. Make sure to rinse the grains thoroughly until the water runs clear, and always keep the heat low when simmering to ensure even cooking without burning.

For those who prefer a stronger garlic flavor, you can add additional minced garlic towards the end of the sautéing process. Just remember to watch it closely to avoid burning, and adjust the seasoning to balance the flavors if needed.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, frozen green beans can be used. Just add them to the garlic butter for a few minutes longer until heated through.

→ How can I store leftover rice skillet?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Absolutely! Use plant-based butter instead of regular butter and adjust the seasoning to your taste.

→ What else can I add to this skillet?

Feel free to add sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or grilled chicken to make it even heartier.