Cheesy Green Bean Casserole
This cheesy green bean casserole is creamy, savory, and topped with a perfect crunch. It uses fresh green beans and a homemade cheese sauce for the ultimate side dish that will disappear from the holiday table in minutes.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh green beans (ends trimmed and cut)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded and divided)
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1 1/2 cups French fried onions
- salt to taste
Instructions
- Prep and Blanch Beans: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil the green beans in salted water for 5 minutes in a big pot....Then transfer them to an ice bath to cool.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Cook the onion for 5-7 minutes until soft, then stir in the garlic for 1 minute.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in the flour, then slowly whisk in the milk and chicken broth. Simmer the mixture for a few minutes until it has thickened nicely.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning: Remove from the heat. Stir in paprika, pepper, salt, 1 1/2 cups cheddar, and all the Parmesan until it's melted and smooth.
- Combine and Assemble: Gently fold the drained green beans into the cheese sauce. Pour the mixture into a 9x13 casserole dish and spread it evenly.
- Top and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar and all the French fried onions on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Notes
- Using a block of cheese and shredding it yourself tastes best.
- Don’t skip the ice bath! It keeps the beans perfectly crisp-tender.
- You can easily make this vegetarian by using vegetable broth.
- Feel free to add cooked, crumbled bacon for a salty kick.
- This casserole is a perfect make-ahead dish for the holidays.