Special Green Bean Au Gratin
Creamy green bean au gratin with sharp cheddar and a flavorful sauce, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook green beans in bacon drippings until tender.
- Meanwhile, melt butter in a saucepan.
- Add minced onions and cook until transparent.
- Remove from heat.
- Mix flour, salt, pepper, dry mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Blend the mixture into the grated Cheddar cheese.
- Heat until the mixture bubbles, then remove from heat and gradually stir in sour cream.
- Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
- Cook an additional 2 to 3 minutes longer, stirring constantly, without boiling.
- When beans are tender, drain if necessary, and add to the sauce.
- Toss beans gently until well coated with the sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, consider using low-fat cheese and sour cream. If you don't have sharp Cheddar, a mild Cheddar or a mix of cheeses can work well. Be careful not to overcook the green beans; they should be tender but still crisp. Adding a pinch of garlic powder can enhance the flavor without overpowering the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Green Bean Au Gratin pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or grilled steak. For a complete meal, serve alongside mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. It also complements holiday spreads or potlucks, making it a versatile dish for gatherings. Consider serving it with Jake'S 'Kiss' Cookies for a delightful finish to your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover; heat in short bursts, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, heat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Special Green Bean Au Gratin contains roughly 117 calories, with 5g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (18% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (11% of the Daily Value), and calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1305mg per serving (57% 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 instead of frozen. Just blanch them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes until tender before adding to the sauce. This will help retain their bright color and crispness.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you need a substitute for sour cream, you can use Greek yogurt or a mixture of cream cheese and milk. Both options will provide a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the green beans in advance. Simply combine them, place in a baking dish, cover, and store in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, just bake until heated through and bubbly.
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).