Bill Miller Bar-B-Q is a staple Texas restaurant chain known for its tasty smoked meats, homemade sides, and signature green beans. These addictively seasoned canned green beans have amassed a cult following over the years. With their blend of spices and sweet tangy flavor, Bill Miller green beans are the perfect accompaniment to smoked brisket, pulled pork, and more. Luckily, with just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can make this copycat recipe at home!
The History of Bill Miller’s Iconic Green Beans
Bill Miller opened his first barbecue restaurant in San Antonio, Texas in 1953 The eatery quickly gained fame for its tender smoked meats and homemade side dishes like potato salad, coleslaw, and what would become its signature item – the green beans
Originally, the green beans were made from scratch using fresh green beans But when Bill Miller began opening multiple locations across Texas, they switched to canned beans to streamline the cooking process while keeping the addictive sweet, tangy and slightly spicy flavor
Today, Bill Miller Bar-B-Q has over 80 locations across Texas. And its green beans are just as popular as ever thanks to their balance of savory, sweet and acidic flavors with a hint of spice.
How to Make Copycat Bill Miller Green Beans
Recreating the green beans at home is easy. The ingredients are simple pantry staples and the cooking time is just 10 minutes. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 4 (15 oz) cans cut green beans, drained
- 1⁄2 cup white sugar
- 1⁄2 cup ketchup
- 1⁄4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1⁄2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1⁄4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
- Drain the canned green beans in a colander and rinse under cool water. Drain well again.
- In a large skillet, combine the sugar, ketchup, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, garlic powder, black pepper and cayenne (if using). Stir well.
- Add the drained green beans. Toss to evenly coat in the sauce.
- Cook over medium heat for 5-10 minutes, stirring frequently, until heated through and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and serve hot. Refrigerate leftovers.
That’s it! With just 10 minutes of easy cooking, you can enjoy these sweet and tangy copycat Bill Miller barbecue green beans just like from the restaurant.
Tips for Making Perfect Bill Miller-Style Green Beans
- Use full sugar ketchup for the best flavor. The extra sweetness balances the vinegar.
- Add a pinch of cayenne for a hint of heat like the original.
- For convenience, look for canned green beans that are already “drained” or “rinsed.”
- Stir frequently while cooking to prevent burning. The high sugar content can cause sticking.
- Adding a bit of butter or bacon drippings when cooking gives even more flavor.
- Garnish with crumbled bacon or minced raw onion for extra toppings.
- For spicier beans, use hot and spicy Worcestershire sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of green beans are used at Bill Miller’s?
While fresh green beans were originally used, today they use pre-prepared canned cut green beans for consistency. Look for a name brand like Bush’s or Green Giant.
What if I can’t find white sugar?
Regular granulated sugar will work the same. Do not substitute brown sugar, as it will change the flavor profile.
Can I prepare these green beans on the stovetop or slow cooker?
Yes, you can make the beans either on the stove or in a slow cooker on low for 2-3 hours. Just monitor and stir occasionally to prevent burning or sticking.
How long do the green beans keep?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Reheat gently before serving. The beans also freeze well for longer storage.
Can I use frozen or fresh green beans?
For best results, stick to canned beans. Fresh/frozen beans have a different texture that doesn’t mimic the restaurant beans as closely.
More Bill Miller Copycat Recipes to Try
Once you master the green beans, recreate even more Bill Miller classics at home:
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Famous Potato Salad – With lots of eggs, onion, mustard and paprika.
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Sweet Coleslaw – Shredded cabbage tossed in a mayo dressing with sugar and vinegar.
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Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread – Moist, slightly spicy cornbread baked with corn and cheese.
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Iced Tea – Brewed tea, lemon and orange slices, and a touch of sugar.
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Barbecue Sauces – Tomato-based sauces ranging from tangy to spicy.
With this easy copycat recipe, you can enjoy Bill Miller’s legendary sweet and tangy green beans any time. They’re the perfect accompaniment to backyard barbecued brisket or pork ribs. One taste, and you’ll see why they’ve become so beloved across Texas.
