Cook bacon until crispy, reserve 1 tablespoon bacon grease and drain the rest. Crumble bacon.
Bring a large pot of water to boil, add green beans (water should be just above the beans) and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
Cook on medium-low heat for 5 minutes, drain the beans.
Heat reserved bacon grease and butter in a large skillet on medium heat.
Add minced garlic. Cook it while stirring constantly, for about 30 seconds.
Add crumbled bacon and green beans.
Saute on medium heat for about 1 minute to combine all ingredients.
Remove from heat. Taste and add more salt, if needed.
Notes
You don't absolutely have to trim the ends off of the green beans. However, if you want, you can certainly snap or trim the ends off of the fresh green beans.
Fresh green beans are best but you could absolutely use frozen green beans in this recipe. Just thaw slightly before cooking. They don't need to be completely thawed because they will cook up quickly once they get in the pan.
Canned green beans can be used. Just drain the beans really well. They won't need to cook as long as the fresh.
Ham, ham hocks or jowls can be used instead of bacon.