Quick Green Beans
A creamy and cheesy green bean casserole that combines tender cooked green beans with a rich, thickened sauce topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or holiday gatherings, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir flour, salt, and pepper into melted butter in a saucepan. Stir in milk.
- Cook until the mixture thickens.
- Pour the sauce over hot cooked green beans.
- Sprinkle with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Brown under the broiler until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a thicker sauce, allow it to cook longer after adding the milk. If you want a lighter version, substitute half of the Cheddar cheese with a lower-fat cheese. You can also use frozen green beans for convenience; just ensure they are thawed and drained well before mixing with the sauce. This dish can easily be adapted to fit vegetarian recipes by using a plant-based butter and cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the green beans as a delightful side dish to accompany grilled meats or roasted chicken. They pair beautifully with Amish Yeast Bread for a comforting meal. For a complete dinner, consider adding a fresh salad or baked potatoes alongside this dish to balance out the flavors and textures.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, it's best to use the oven to maintain the cheese's texture; cover with foil and heat at 350°F until warmed through. You can also microwave in short bursts, but the cheese may lose its crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Green Beans contains roughly 1629 calories, with 3g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 172g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (62% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1815mg per serving (79% 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 a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Cheddar cheese adds a delicious flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for a different twist. Just keep in mind that the melting qualities will vary with each cheese.
Is there a way to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and green beans separately in advance. Store them in the refrigerator, then combine and bake just before serving. This allows the flavors to meld while making the preparation process easier for busy weeknights or gatherings.
What can I do if my sauce is too thin?
If your sauce turns out too thin, you can thicken it by making a slurry with a tablespoon of flour mixed with a little cold milk, then whisking it into the sauce while it's cooking. Allow it to simmer until it thickens to your desired consistency.
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).