Green Beans With Cream Cheese Sauce
Creamy green beans with a savory mushroom and cream cheese sauce make a comforting side dish perfect for family dinners and special occasions alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook green beans with 1/2 teaspoon salt according to package directions.
- Heat sliced mushrooms in margarine for a few minutes until warmed.
- Blend evaporated milk into softened cream cheese with celery seed and salt until smooth.
- Spoon the cheese sauce over drained green beans and garnish with cooked mushrooms.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider using full-fat cream cheese instead of reduced fat. If you're short on time, fresh green beans can be used instead of frozen; just adjust the cooking time accordingly. You can also substitute the margarine with butter for a richer flavor. Adding some garlic powder or onion powder can enhance the taste further. This dish pairs beautifully with Peggy'S Fruit Cobbler for a delightful meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these green beans as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. They also make a great addition to a vegetarian spread. Pair with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce or serve alongside a light salad, like Mary'S Fruit Salad, for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the green beans and cream cheese sauce in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. Avoid overheating to prevent the cream cheese from separating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Beans With Cream Cheese Sauce contains roughly 271 calories, with 5g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (94% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 644mg per serving (28% 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 in place of frozen. Just remember to blanch them in boiling water for 3-5 minutes until tender, then proceed with the recipe as directed. This will ensure they maintain their crisp texture and vibrant color.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
To make this dish lighter, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese and swap margarine for a light cooking spray. You can also reduce the amount of cream cheese sauce you use or serve the green beans plain with a sprinkle of salt and pepper for a healthier option.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or even steamed broccoli for added nutrition and color. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you choose to include.
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).