Creating Garlic and Bacon Green Beans is a simple process. Follow these steps for a delicious outcome:

1. Prepare Green Beans: Rinse the green beans under cold water and trim the ends. Set aside.
2. Cook Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet, leaving the rendered fat.
3. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic to the bacon fat. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
4. Add Green Beans: Add the trimmed green beans to the skillet. Stir to coat the beans with garlic and bacon fat.
5. Season: Add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss everything together.
6. Cook Beans: Sauté the green beans for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender-crisp.
7. Combine: Return the crispy bacon to the skillet. Toss to combine all ingredients.
8. Drizzle Olive Oil: If desired, drizzle olive oil over the green beans for added richness.
9. Serve Warm: Remove from heat and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

With these straightforward steps, you can have a mouthwatering side dish ready in no time!