Add the green beans to a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

Cook the beans until just tender, about 5 minutes (this leaves them with a little bite; if you like them more tender, cook a few minutes longer).

Drain the water from the beans and return the beans to the pot.

Turn the heat to low and add the butter and salt and pepper to the beans.

Stir continuously until the beans are coated with the butter and salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 1 minute to enhance all the flavors.