Baked String Beans
Baked String Beans is a comforting side dish featuring tender beans topped with a cheesy, creamy sauce and a crispy bread crumb topping. The combination of melted cheddar, onion, and a golden crust makes it perfect for family dinners or potlucks, offering rich flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the beans until tender and place them in a casserole dish.
- In a separate saucepan, melt the margarine over medium heat.
- Add the milk and flour to the saucepan, stirring until the mixture thickens.
- Stir in the chopped onion and shredded Cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked beans in the casserole dish.
- Toss the bread crumbs with melted margarine until coated.
- Sprinkle the bread crumbs on top of the beans and cheese mixture.
- Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. You can substitute the Cheddar cheese with Gruyère for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a healthier option, opt for olive oil instead of margarine. Be sure to season the beans with salt and pepper before baking for enhanced flavor. This dish is a great way to incorporate vegetables into your meal, complementing other American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Baked String Beans as a hearty side dish alongside roasted meats or grilled chicken for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Carrot Cake With Cream Cheese Hard Sauce for dessert, creating a delightful dinner experience. For a vegetarian option, complement it with a fresh salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the bread crumbs may lose their crispiness. Reheating in the oven will help maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked String Beans contains roughly 1817 calories, with 77g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 144g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (155% of the Daily Value), calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (126% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2559mg per serving (111% 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 beans instead of frozen or canned?
Absolutely! Fresh beans will provide a better texture and flavor. Simply trim and cook them until tender before adding to the casserole. The cooking time may vary depending on the type of beans you choose, so keep an eye on them for doneness.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance. Assemble it up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
What can I use instead of bread crumbs for a gluten-free option?
You can substitute the bread crumbs with gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers. Alternatively, ground almonds or cornmeal can also work well for a crunchy topping without gluten. Just ensure that any substitutions you make fit within your dietary preferences.
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).