Green Beans, Cream Style
Creamy green beans with a hint of celery seed and smooth cream cheese create a rich, flavorful side perfect for family dinners and gatherings alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the green beans according to the package directions.
- Drain the green beans.
- Combine the softened cream cheese, milk, celery seed, and salt in a bowl.
- Blend thoroughly until smooth.
- Add the cream mixture to the cooked green beans and heat through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper to the cream mixture. If you don't have cream cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute, though the texture will vary slightly. Fresh green beans can also be used; just adjust the cooking time accordingly. This dish is a great accompaniment to American recipes like Bourbon-Basted Cornish Hens.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these creamy green beans as a delicious side dish for holiday meals or weeknight dinners. They pair wonderfully with roasted meats or can be enjoyed alongside vegetarian recipes like a hearty lentil salad. For a festive touch, consider garnishing with toasted slivered almonds or fresh herbs to elevate the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the green beans in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If the mixture seems too thick, adding a splash of milk while reheating can help restore creaminess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Beans, Cream Style contains roughly 216 calories, with 5g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 502mg per serving (22% 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 frozen?
Yes, fresh green beans can be used! Just trim and wash them, then blanch in boiling water for 3-5 minutes until tender before proceeding with the recipe. This will enhance their flavor and texture, making them a delightful addition to the creamy sauce.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative and use almond milk or any other non-dairy milk in place of regular milk. This will help maintain a creamy texture while keeping the dish suitable for those avoiding dairy.
What can I serve with these green beans?
These creamy green beans pair excellently with roasted chicken or turkey. They also complement dishes like grilled fish or a hearty stew. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside mashed potatoes or a light salad to balance the richness of the cream sauce.
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).