String Beans With Cheese
Creamy string beans with cheese and eggs make a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings, blending rich flavors with tender vegetables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain liquid from the string beans.
- Reduce the liquid by boiling until it measures about 1/4 cup.
- Cook the eggs in simmering (not boiling) water until done, then peel and slice.
- In a buttered casserole dish, add the sliced eggs.
- Add the drained beans, butter, cream, salt, and pepper to the reduced liquid and bring to a boil.
- Add the grated process cheese to the boiling mixture, stirring until melted.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the sliced eggs in the casserole.
- Cover with bread crumbs.
- Bake in a hot oven until the bread crumbs are browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a blend of cream and evaporated milk or substituting with half-and-half. If process cheese isn't available, sharp cheddar or a similar melting cheese can work well. To enhance texture, add some sautéed onions or garlic to the mixture. If you want a crunchier topping, mix the bread crumbs with some grated Parmesan cheese.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for added protein. It also makes a delightful side for holiday gatherings or potlucks, complementing other American recipes like Vernelle'S Pound Cake or Quick And Easy Squash Bake.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally, to ensure even heating without drying it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of String Beans With Cheese contains roughly 837 calories, with 5g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 81g fat. It is a good source of calcium (17% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 811mg per serving (35% 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 string beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh string beans instead of canned. Just blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes until tender-crisp before adding to the dish. This will enhance the flavor and texture, making it even more delicious.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe?
Absolutely! To keep it vegetarian, simply omit the hard-cooked eggs or replace them with a plant-based alternative, like silken tofu, to maintain the creamy texture. You can also add extra vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Make sure to check that all other ingredients, especially the cheese, are certified gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.
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).