Green Beans Au Gratin
Green Beans Au Gratin is a creamy, cheesy side dish featuring tender green beans baked with a savory sour cream and onion sauce, topped with melted Cheddar cheese and crunchy bread crumbs. Perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings, it offers rich flavors and comforting textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Steam green beans over lightly salted water until tender.
- Set aside.
- Melt butter in a skillet and sauté onions until brown.
- Slowly add flour, water, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
- Let simmer for 3 to 4 minutes.
- Stir in beans and sour cream.
- Mix thoroughly.
- Place the mixture in a buttered casserole.
- Top with Cheddar cheese and bread crumbs.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider mixing in some cream cheese along with the sour cream. If you prefer a lighter version, Greek yogurt can substitute for sour cream. Fresh green beans are best, but frozen ones can work in a pinch. Be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly. For an added flavor twist, try incorporating garlic powder into your breadcrumb topping.
Serving Suggestions
Green Beans Au Gratin is a delightful side dish that pairs beautifully with roasted meats or poultry, such as Garlic Chicken Wings or Crunchy Chicken. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a fresh salad or some Farmers Potatoes. This dish can also be a centerpiece at a vegetarian feast, complementing other sides like Broccoli Continental.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the Green Beans Au Gratin in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for about 3-4 days. When reheating, use the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through to preserve the texture. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it may make the dish soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Beans Au Gratin contains roughly 185 calories, with 8g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1421mg per serving (62% 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 frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen green beans can be used as a convenient alternative. Just ensure to thaw and drain them well before using, as excess water can affect the dish's texture. Adjust steaming time accordingly, as frozen beans may require less time to become tender.
What can I substitute for Cheddar cheese?
If Cheddar isn't your preference, you can substitute with Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or even a combination of cheeses for a unique flavor. Keep in mind that different cheeses will melt differently, so choose one that suits your taste and texture preference.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for a day. When ready to serve, just pop it in the oven. You may need to increase baking time slightly to ensure it’s heated through.
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).