Cheesy Green Bean Casserole

This Cheesy Green Bean Casserole takes the classic holiday side dish to the next level! Creamy, cheesy, and topped with crispy fried onions, it’s the ultimate comfort food for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any meal that needs a little extra indulgence.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Extra Cheesy – A rich, gooey cheddar sauce makes it irresistible.
• Classic Comfort – A creamy, crunchy, and satisfying dish.
• Simple & Quick – Ready in 30 minutes with minimal effort.
• Perfect for Holidays – A guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Fresh or Frozen Green Beans (1 ½ lbs, trimmed & cut into 2-inch pieces) – The star of the dish.
• Butter (2 tbsp) – Adds richness.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Enhances the flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour (2 tbsp) – Helps thicken the sauce.
• Milk (1 ½ cups) – Creates a smooth, creamy texture.
• Cheddar Cheese (1 ½ cups, shredded) – Melts perfectly into the sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese (¼ cup, grated) – Adds a nutty, salty kick.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup (1 can, 10.5 oz) – The classic base for a creamy casserole.
• Salt & Black Pepper (to taste) – Enhances the flavors.
• Paprika (½ tsp, optional) – Adds a hint of warmth.
• Fried Onions (1 ½ cups) – The crispy, crunchy topping!

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot for blanching green beans
• Medium saucepan for the cheese sauce
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Whisk and mixing spoon

How to Make Cheesy Green Bean Casserole

Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Cook the Green Beans
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3–4 minutes until bright green. Drain and transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheesy Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to remove the raw taste. Slowly whisk in the milk and bring to a simmer. Once thickened, add cheddar cheese, Parmesan, cream of mushroom soup, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
In a large bowl, combine the green beans with the cheese sauce. Transfer to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

Step 5: Bake & Add Crispy Topping
Bake uncovered for 20 minutes. Remove from the oven, sprinkle fried onions evenly on top, and return to bake for another 5 minutes until golden brown.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!

What to Serve with Cheesy Green Bean Casserole

• Roast Turkey or Chicken – A holiday classic pairing.
• Mashed Potatoes – For the ultimate comfort meal.
• Dinner Rolls – Perfect for soaking up the cheesy sauce.

Tips for the Best Casserole

• Use Fresh Green Beans – For the best texture, but frozen works too!
• Shred Your Own Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
• For Extra Crunch – Mix panko breadcrumbs with the fried onions.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole (without the crispy onions) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed.

Can I Make This Without Cream of Mushroom Soup?

Yes! Replace it with ½ cup heavy cream and ½ cup sautéed mushrooms for a homemade alternative.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Green Bean Casserole is creamy, crunchy, and loaded with flavor! Whether for Thanksgiving or a simple family dinner, it’s an easy, crowd-pleasing side dish that everyone will love.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 290 | Protein: 9g | Carbohydrates: 18g | Fat: 20g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 450mg

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