Cheesy Green Bean Casserole

This Cheesy Green Bean Casserole is a creamy, savory twist on the classic dish, packed with melted cheese, fresh green beans, and crispy toppings. It’s perfect for holiday dinners, potlucks, or just a cozy family meal. The best part? It’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Green Bean Casserole

• Creamy and Cheesy: Every bite is loaded with gooey melted cheese and a creamy sauce.
• Perfect for Gatherings: A comforting side dish that’s great for Thanksgiving or any family dinner.
• Crunchy Topping: A crispy, golden topping adds the perfect contrast to the creamy base.

Ingredients for Cheesy Green Bean Casserole

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and halved (or 2 cans of green beans, drained)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup milk
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or saucepan
• Mixing bowl
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Spatula

How to Make Cheesy Green Bean Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans

1. If using fresh green beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 4-5 minutes, until they’re tender but still crisp. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2. If using canned green beans: Simply drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheesy Sauce

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
3. Add 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it melts into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the green beans with the cheesy sauce, making sure everything is well coated.
3. Transfer the green bean mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
5. For an extra cheesy layer, you can also sprinkle the Parmesan cheese at this point.

Step 4: Add the Crispy Topping and Bake

1. Sprinkle the crispy fried onions evenly over the casserole.
2. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the topping is golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the cheesy, crunchy goodness!

Tips for the Best Cheesy Green Bean Casserole

• Fresh vs. Canned Green Beans: Fresh green beans give a nice crisp texture, but canned beans are convenient and still delicious.
• Customize the Cheese: Swap out cheddar for a different cheese like mozzarella, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Just refrigerate it covered, and bake it when ready to serve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use frozen green beans?
A: Yes! Thaw and drain the frozen green beans before using, and they’ll work perfectly in this recipe.

Q2: How do I make this casserole vegetarian?
A: Be sure to use a vegetarian cream of mushroom soup, or make your own homemade version.

Q3: Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and crispy fried onions, or make your own using gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Conclusion: The Ultimate Comfort Dish!

Cheesy Green Bean Casserole is an easy, hearty side dish that will bring comfort to your dinner table. The creamy, cheesy sauce paired with the fresh green beans and crispy topping creates the perfect blend of flavors and textures. It’s sure to become a favorite for holidays and family dinners alike!

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 260
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 3g

Serve up this cheesy, crunchy delight at your next gathering and enjoy every bite!