Why You’ll Love This Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole
- Easy to Make: Just a few simple steps, and you’ve got a show-stopping side!
- Cheesy Upgrade: Sharp cheddar cheese takes this dish to the next level.
- Crispy Topping: The buttery Cheddar Bay biscuit crumbs provide a crunchy, garlicky finish.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for holidays or any time you want a comforting side dish.
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Baking dish (9×13-inch)
- Whisk
Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Description
There’s something magical about combining the cheesy goodness of cheddar, the savory notes of garlic, and the classic comfort of a green bean casserole. This Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole brings a fun, flavorful twist to a holiday favorite. It’s creamy, crunchy, and irresistibly delicious—a dish sure to steal the spotlight at your next gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs fresh green beans (trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup Cheddar Bay biscuit mix (prepared as crumbs or topping)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for the topping)
- ½ cup crispy fried onions (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the green beans for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Drain and immediately plunge the green beans into ice water to stop the cooking. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheesy Sauce
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Sprinkle in the flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to create a smooth sauce.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add sour cream, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the green beans with the cheesy sauce. Toss until evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 4: Add the Crunchy Topping
- In a bowl, combine the prepared Cheddar Bay biscuit crumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Top with crispy fried onions for extra crunch and flavor.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
- Bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Fresh or Frozen Beans: If you can’t find fresh green beans, frozen ones work just as well—just skip the blanching step.
- Customize the Cheese: Try mixing in Monterey Jack or Gruyere for a different cheesy profile.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and bake it right before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Storage Instructions
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use canned green beans?
Yes, but the texture will be softer. Drain them well before using.
Q2: Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free flour blend for the sauce and a gluten-free biscuit mix for the topping.
Q3: Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just use a larger baking dish or two smaller ones to ensure even cooking.
Conclusion: A Cheesy Twist on a Classic
This Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole is a guaranteed hit at the dinner table. Its creamy, cheesy interior and garlicky, crunchy topping make it the ultimate comfort food side dish. Try it for your next gathering—you’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!
Did you make this recipe? Share your experience and photos on social media—we’d love to see how it turned out!
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 250
Protein: 8g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 3g
Enjoy the perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and cheesy goodness with every bite!
