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