Cheesy Green Beans
Cheesy Green Beans are a delicious blend of crisp bacon, tender green beans, and a creamy Cheez Whiz sauce. This comforting dish is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, combining savory flavors with a cheesy twist that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook bacon in skillet on medium heat until crisp.
- Drain bacon; reserve 2 tablespoons drippings.
- Crumble bacon; reserve 2 tablespoons.
- Cook green beans as directed on package; drain well.
- Add chopped onion to reserved drippings in skillet.
- Cook and stir on medium-high heat for 10 minutes; drain.
- Add crumbled bacon, hot cooked green beans, and black pepper.
- Mix lightly.
- Spoon into serving dish. Microwave Cheez Whiz as directed on label.
- Pour over green bean mixture.
- Sprinkle with reserved 2 tablespoons crumbled bacon.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of hot sauce to the green beans. If you prefer a healthier version, substitute turkey bacon for the regular bacon. You can also use fresh green beans instead of frozen, just adjust cooking time accordingly. If you want to add more texture, throw in some toasted almonds or crushed crackers on top before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cheesy green bean dish as a delightful side with your favorite meats, such as grilled chicken or pork chops. It pairs beautifully with Linda Twelves' Broccoli And Cauliflower Salad for a complete meal. Consider adding crusty bread for a comforting dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the green bean mixture until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can heat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Green Beans contains roughly 258 calories, with 11g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (73% of the Daily Value), iron (43% of the Daily Value), and calcium (27% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 20g 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 a different cheese instead of Cheez Whiz?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute Cheez Whiz with shredded cheddar cheese or a homemade cheese sauce. Just melt the cheese over the green beans until bubbly, and enjoy the variation.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and use olive oil or butter to sauté the onions. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the green bean mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just cook the green beans and mix with the other ingredients, then reheat and add the Cheez Whiz right before serving for the best taste.
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).