Cheesy green bean casserole is the ultimate comfort dish that takes a holiday classic to the next level. It’s creamy, savory, and packed with layers of flavor, all tied together with plenty of melted cheese. Whether it’s Thanksgiving Day, a family potluck, or a cozy Sunday meal, this version of the beloved casserole always steals the spotlight.
The base of the dish starts with crisp-tender green beans, blanched just long enough to keep their color and slight bite. Instead of relying on canned soup, a homemade creamy sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and a touch of garlic brings a richer, fresher taste. Once the sauce thickens, shredded cheddar or Gruyère cheese is stirred in until smooth and velvety. The cheese melts into the sauce, coating each green bean in irresistible creaminess.
To assemble, the green beans are tossed in the cheesy sauce and layered in a baking dish. On top goes the finishing touch: a crunchy topping made from crispy fried onions, breadcrumbs, or even crushed crackers mixed with a bit of butter and more cheese. After a quick bake in the oven, the casserole bubbles beautifully, and the topping turns golden brown and crisp.
Each bite delivers a perfect mix of textures, tender green beans, creamy sauce, and a cheesy, crunchy top that makes you want to go back for seconds. You can even customize it by adding bits of cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or sautéed mushrooms for extra depth of flavor.
This casserole isn’t just for the holidays. It pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a simple baked potato. It’s an easy side dish that feels special without requiring much effort.
Cheesy green bean casserole brings warmth, nostalgia, and a hint of indulgence to any meal. It’s the kind of recipe that makes people linger around the table just a little longer, fork in hand, enjoying every creamy, cheesy bite.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup mushrooms sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 can French fried onions (about 6 ounces)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the green beans for 5 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the garlic and mushrooms until tender.
- Add the heavy cream, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine the green beans with the cheese sauce and half of the French fried onions in a casserole dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Sprinkle the remaining French fried onions on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition
I don’t know, my green beans came out way too mushy. Maybe I cooked them too long? Not sure if I’ll make this again.
Nice but needs more flavor. I sprinkle more spices than it says. Maybe some bacon next time? Love the crunch of the onions.
Cheddar cheese with green beans?? Sounds weird but wow it’s sooo good! 10/10 would recommend!
Eh, didn’t like it that much. The fried onions tasted stale. I think I might just stick to my simple steamed beans.
I totally get what you’re saying! Those fried onions can be hit or miss. But maybe try making your own next time? They taste way better!
Simple steamed beans sound good too, but you’re really missing out on that cheesy goodness! It’s all about personal taste, I guess.
This recipe is awesome! The cheesy goodness is a hit at every family gathering. Will make again!