Blanch the Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fresh green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and plunge into an ice bath.

Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook chopped thick-cut bacon until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Remove bacon, leaving 1-2 tablespoons of bacon fat.

Prepare the Glaze: In the same skillet, melt unsalted butter in bacon fat and add minced garlic, cooking for 30 seconds. Stir in brown sugar and soy sauce until smooth.

Combine Green Beans and Sauce: Transfer blanched green beans to a baking dish, pour glaze over them, and add bacon. Toss to coat every bean.

Bake for Perfect Texture: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 10 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy: Let cool briefly, then serve hot as a side dish.