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
Scale
- 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