Cheese Green Beans
Creamy green beans with crispy bacon, mushrooms, and melted cheese create a flavorful side perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook bacon until crisp. Drain bacon and reserve 1/4 cup bacon drippings.
- Crumble bacon, reserving 2 tablespoons for topping.
- Cook green beans as directed.
- In a skillet, cook chopped onion in the reserved bacon drippings over medium-high heat for 5 minutes.
- Add drained mushrooms to the skillet and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Add cooked green beans, bacon (except the 2 tablespoons reserved), and pepper to the skillet. Mix lightly.
- Spoon the mixture into a 2-quart serving dish.
- Microwave Cheez Whiz until melted and pour over the green bean mixture.
- Sprinkle the reserved 2 tablespoons of bacon on top.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider using a mix of fresh green beans and frozen for texture. If you prefer a healthier option, turkey bacon can be substituted for traditional bacon. For a creamier consistency, try adding a splash of heavy cream or sour cream to the green bean mixture before baking. Adjust the pepper to your taste, especially if serving with rich dishes like Baked Ham With Apples.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy green bean dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats or can be a comforting side at holiday gatherings. Serve alongside American recipes like Pork recipes or Grandma Grant'S Salad Dressing for a complete meal. It also makes a delightful addition to potlucks and family dinners, adding a savory, indulgent flavor to your table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or oven; if using the oven, cover with foil to prevent drying out. You can also add a splash of water or broth to the dish before reheating to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Green Beans contains roughly 204 calories, with 8g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (140% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (39% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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, fresh green beans can be used in this recipe. Just be sure to trim and blanch them before adding to the skillet. This will help maintain their vibrant color and crunchy texture, making them a great alternative to frozen options.
What can I substitute for Cheez Whiz?
If you prefer a different cheese, try using shredded cheddar or a cheese sauce. Melt the cheese in the microwave before pouring it over the green bean mixture for a similar creamy texture. For a healthier option, consider a homemade cheese sauce made with low-fat cheese and milk.
How can I spice up this dish further?
To add more flavor, consider including garlic or red pepper flakes when cooking the onions. You can also mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added color and nutrition. A sprinkle of Italian herbs can also elevate the dish’s flavor profile.
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).