These Margherita Roasted Green Beans are a fresh, savory side dish inspired by the classic flavors of a Margherita-style meal. Tender-crisp green beans are coated in a rich tomato sauce, roasted until bubbly, then finished with melted mozzarella and fresh basil for a simple yet satisfying dish that pairs beautifully with many meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to prepare with simple, wholesome ingredients you may already have on hand. It’s packed with comforting Italian-inspired flavors while still feeling light and fresh. The green beans roast beautifully in the oven, soaking up the sauce and garlic, and the melted mozzarella adds just the right amount of richness. It’s also great for meal prep and reheats very well.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 1/2 pounds fresh green beans, ends trimmed
2 cups marinara sauce or crushed tomatoes
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 to 3 fresh garlic cloves, minced
Sea salt, to taste
Ground black pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Optional topping: chopped fresh basil leaves

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. While the water heats, prepare a large bowl filled with ice water and set it aside.

Add the green beans to the boiling water and blanch for 3 to 4 minutes, until they are slightly softened but still crisp. Using tongs or a slotted spoon, transfer the green beans immediately to the ice water. Let them cool for 1 to 2 minutes, then drain very well.

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Lightly brush or spray an oven-safe baking dish with cooking oil.

In a large bowl, combine the blanched green beans, marinara sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, sea salt, and black pepper. Toss until the green beans are evenly coated.

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly and scraping in all of the sauce.

Roast for 15 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the green beans are tender.

Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. Return to the oven and broil for about 4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.

Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh basil if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6 servings.
Prep time: about 10 minutes
Cook time: about 20 minutes
Total time: approximately 30 minutes

Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of dried oregano or Italian seasoning to the sauce before roasting.
You can mix in sliced mushrooms or cherry tomatoes for added texture and freshness.
For a dairy-free version, omit the cheese or use a dairy-free mozzarella alternative.
If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a small pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring gently to heat evenly. The flavors hold up well, making this dish ideal for meal prep.

FAQs

Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh green beans provide the best texture. If using frozen, thaw and pat them dry before blanching.

Do I really need to blanch the green beans first?

Blanching helps keep the green beans bright, tender, and evenly cooked after roasting.

What type of marinara sauce works best?

Choose a simple marinara with minimal ingredients and no added sugar for the best flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish up to the roasting step and refrigerate it, then bake when ready to serve.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. It reheats well and maintains good texture and flavor for several days.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sauce?

Yes, crushed fresh tomatoes can be used, though the flavor may be lighter than marinara.

How do I keep the cheese from over-browning?

Keep a close eye while broiling and remove the dish as soon as the cheese melts and turns lightly golden.

What main dishes pair well with this?

It pairs well with grilled chicken, baked fish, or simple grain dishes.

Can I make this recipe oil-free?

You can reduce or omit the oil, though a small amount helps the flavors blend and prevents sticking.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, the mild flavors and melted cheese make it appealing to many kids.

Conclusion

Margherita Roasted Green Beans are a flavorful and versatile side dish that transforms simple ingredients into something special. With minimal prep, classic flavors, and excellent reheating potential, this recipe is a reliable option for both busy weeknights and relaxed family meals.

Print