Microwave Au Gratin Green Beans
Creamy, cheesy green beans topped with bacon and cracker crumbs, offering a comforting, flavorful side perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Microwave butter and chopped onion in a 2-quart casserole for 1 to 2 minutes until the onion is tender.
- Add flour, shredded Cheddar cheese, and milk to the casserole.
- Stir well and microwave for 4 minutes or until the mixture is thickened, stirring once each minute.
- Fold in drained green beans and crumbled bacon.
- Top with Ritz cracker crumbs and microwave for another 5 to 7 minutes, turning once during cooking.
- Allow to stand for 3 to 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh mushrooms instead of canned ones, and sauté them along with the onions. If you want to make it lighter, substitute Greek yogurt for some of the cheese. This dish can also accommodate other vegetables like cauliflower or broccoli if you want to mix it up. Remember to stir the mixture well after adding the flour to prevent lumps.
Serving Suggestions
This Microwave Au Gratin Green Beans dish pairs beautifully with a side of roasted chicken or grilled steak for a hearty meal. It's perfect for holiday gatherings or as a comforting side for a weeknight dinner. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also place it in an oven-safe dish and heat it at 350°F until warmed, which helps maintain the crispiness of the cracker topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Au Gratin Green Beans contains roughly 616 calories, with 11g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (37% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (35% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C.
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, you can use fresh green beans! Blanch them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes before adding them to the casserole. This will ensure they are tender and retain their vibrant color in the final dish.
What can I substitute for Cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for a different flavor, you can substitute with Gruyère or Monterey Jack cheese. Both will melt well and add a unique taste to the dish. For a lower-fat option, try using reduced-fat cheese.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dish up to the point of adding the Ritz cracker topping, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, just add the topping and microwave as directed.
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).