This Cheddar Green Bean Casserole takes a beloved classic and turns up the flavor with sharp cheddar cheese, crispy onions, and tender green beans baked in a creamy, savory sauce. It’s the perfect side dish for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday meals—comfort food with a rich and cheesy twist.
FULL RECIPE
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground mustard (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups crispy fried onions (divided)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch green beans for 5 minutes, then drain and transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking. Drain again and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.
- Sprinkle in flour and stir constantly for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream. Cook, stirring, until the mixture thickens, about 3–5 minutes.
- Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and ground mustard (if using). Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
- Combine green beans, cheese sauce, and 1 cup of crispy fried onions in a large mixing bowl. Toss gently to coat.
- Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 20 minutes.
- Top with remaining crispy fried onions and bake for another 5–10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Sugars: 4g
History of Green Bean Casserole
Green bean casserole is a staple in many American households, particularly during the holiday season. Originally developed in the 1950s by a Campbell’s Soup Company home economist, it was designed to be simple, using readily available pantry items. Over the decades, it has become a symbol of comfort food and tradition, gracing tables at Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other family gatherings.
The Modern Twist with Cheddar Cheese
While the classic recipe relies heavily on canned soup and fried onions, this upgraded version includes sharp cheddar cheese to enhance the richness and flavor profile. The addition of real cheese not only modernizes the dish but also provides a deeper, more satisfying taste that elevates the traditional experience.
Flavor Profile of the Dish
This cheddar green bean casserole offers a creamy, cheesy, and savory taste with a pleasant crunch from the crispy fried onions. The green beans retain a slight snap from blanching, balancing the soft, gooey texture of the cheese sauce. The garlic and onion base adds aromatic depth, making each bite a warm, comforting experience.
Why Fresh Green Beans Matter
Using fresh green beans instead of canned or frozen ones adds a more vibrant texture and flavor. Blanching them briefly before baking allows them to maintain their color and crunch, providing a fresher, more wholesome feel to the casserole.
Nutritional Considerations
This upgraded casserole, while rich and indulgent, still offers nutritional benefits. Green beans are a good source of fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, and the cheese provides protein and calcium. By making your own sauce, you can control sodium and fat levels compared to using canned soup.
Ideal Occasions for Serving
Cheddar green bean casserole is perfect for holiday dinners, Sunday family meals, or as a comforting side dish for a weeknight roast. Its versatility means it fits into both casual and formal settings, making it a reliable go-to for various occasions.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This dish can be assembled a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator before baking. For best results, hold off on adding the fried onion topping until just before it goes into the oven. Leftovers can be stored for up to three days and reheated in the oven to retain texture.
Customizable Variations
One of the strengths of this dish is how adaptable it is. You can mix in mushrooms, chopped bacon, or caramelized onions for extra layers of flavor. A spicy version can include jalapeños or crushed red pepper, while a Mediterranean take might use feta cheese and sun-dried tomatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole alongside roasted turkey, grilled chicken, or glazed ham. It also pairs well with mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce. For a vegetarian-friendly meal, serve it with a grain salad or roasted root vegetables.
Texture and Mouthfeel
The contrast between creamy sauce, tender green beans, and crispy onions creates an appealing mouthfeel. The cheddar cheese adds a satisfying melt that pulls everything together while enhancing the overall richness of the dish.
Cheese Selection Tips
Sharp cheddar is recommended for its bold flavor and meltability. However, you can experiment with other cheeses like gouda, fontina, or gruyere to give the casserole a unique twist. Mixing mild and sharp cheeses can also balance flavor and creaminess.
Healthier Alternatives
To lighten the dish, use reduced-fat cheese, swap whole milk for skim or a plant-based alternative, and skip the fried onions for a homemade breadcrumb topping. You can also thicken the sauce with pureed cauliflower or white beans to reduce fat without compromising creaminess.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking the green beans or sauce can result in a mushy dish. Be sure to blanch the beans just enough to retain texture. Adding too much salt, especially when using pre-salted ingredients like cheese and fried onions, can also overpower the flavor balance.
Making It Kid-Friendly
This dish is generally popular with children due to its cheesy appeal. You can make it even more kid-friendly by reducing strong seasonings and cutting the green beans into bite-sized pieces. Adding a sprinkle of mild cheese on top may also entice picky eaters.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F to restore the original texture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can soften the crispy onion topping.
Dairy-Free and Vegan Modifications
For a dairy-free or vegan version, substitute the cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative and use oat or almond milk. Use olive oil instead of butter and vegan-friendly fried onions to maintain the dish’s integrity while accommodating dietary needs.
Allergy Information
This dish contains common allergens such as dairy, gluten (from fried onions or flour), and possibly soy. Gluten-free versions can be made by using rice flour and certified gluten-free toppings. Always check labels if cooking for someone with sensitivities.
Holiday Crowd-Pleaser
Green bean casserole is a universally loved dish, and the cheddar twist makes it even more appealing for large gatherings. Its nostalgic essence combined with a flavorful upgrade ensures it remains a hit on any festive table.
Best Equipment to Use
Use a 9×13-inch baking dish for even cooking. A whisk is essential for a smooth cheese sauce, and a sharp knife makes trimming green beans quicker. Non-stick pans help prevent sauce from burning or sticking during preparation.
Conclusion
The Cheddar Green Bean Casserole is a delightful reinvention of a classic comfort food. With fresh ingredients, creamy cheese, and crispy onion topping, it delivers on both nostalgia and flavor. Whether served at a holiday feast or as a cozy side dish during the week, this upgraded version brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. It’s a dish that balances tradition with innovation, offering a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s easy to make, versatile to customize, and delicious to devour.