Green Bean Italian
A flavorful Italian-inspired green bean casserole with tomatoes, onions, and melted mozzarella, perfect as a side dish for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place beans in a lightly greased 1 1/2 quart baking dish.
- Sprinkle diced onion over the beans.
- Arrange Italian stewed tomatoes evenly over the onion.
- Bake uncovered in a 350°F oven for 30 minutes.
- Add shredded mozzarella cheese on top and bake an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese melts.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier dish, consider adding cooked Italian sausage or ground beef. If fresh green beans are available, they can be used instead of canned for a more vibrant flavor. You can also swap out the mozzarella for provolone or Parmesan cheese for a different taste. If you want an extra kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It also complements Italian recipes like Polenta Gnocchi With Gorgonzola or Italian Broccoli Casserole. For a vegetarian option, consider serving it alongside a hearty grain like quinoa or brown rice.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave for a few minutes or bake in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Adding a splash of water before reheating can help retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Bean Italian contains roughly 404 calories, with 28g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (62% of the Daily Value), protein (56% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2592mg per serving (113% 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 canned?
Yes, fresh green beans can be used for a fresher taste. Just trim and blanch them before layering in the baking dish to ensure they cook properly in the oven.
What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?
If you don't have mozzarella, you can substitute with provolone, gouda, or even Parmesan for a sharper flavor. Each cheese will give a unique twist to the dish.
Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
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).