Austrian Green Beans
A creamy Austrian green bean casserole with Swiss cheese, crispy fried onions, and a rich, savory sauce, perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion in margarine until tender.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually add cream and milk, stirring constantly.
- Add chicken bouillon cubes and cook until mixture thickens.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then add grated Swiss cheese and stir until melted.
- Add cooked green beans and mix well.
- Pour mixture into a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Sprinkle French fried onions over the top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute the margarine with olive oil and use low-fat milk instead of light cream. If Swiss cheese is unavailable, Gruyère or mozzarella can work well. You can also add some cooked bacon for extra flavor or toss in some chopped garlic with the onion for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or a light salad for a well-rounded meal. Consider serving it alongside Chicken In Coke for a delightful contrast of flavors. For a hearty touch, add a side of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for about 1-2 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Austrian Green Beans contains roughly 780 calories, with 12g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (45% of the Daily Value), calcium (27% of the Daily Value), and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1690mg per serving (73% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh green beans instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh green beans! Just trim and blanch them in boiling water for about 3-5 minutes before adding to the casserole. This helps maintain their vibrant color and crisp texture.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can make this dish vegetarian by replacing chicken bouillon cubes with vegetable bouillon and using plant-based margarine. The flavors will still be rich and satisfying without the meat.
How can I make this casserole ahead of time?
To make this casserole ahead, prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and allow to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).