why make this recipe
Cheesy Green Bean Casserole is a delightful dish that combines comfort and flavor. This recipe elevates the classic green bean casserole by incorporating crispy bacon and creamy cheese, making it perfect for holidays or family dinners. The combination of fresh green beans and a rich, savory sauce creates a side dish everyone will love.
With its cheesy texture and crispy toppings, this casserole is both satisfying and heartwarming. Plus, it’s easy to make, allowing for more time to enjoy with family and friends at the dinner table. This dish is sure to impress at any gathering.
equipment needed for Cheesy Green Bean Casserole
To create the Cheesy Green Bean Casserole, you will need a few essential pieces of equipment. A large pot is necessary for boiling the green beans. A colander will be helpful for draining them after cooking.
A large skillet is needed for cooking the bacon and sautéing the onions and garlic. Additionally, you will require a large casserole dish to combine all the ingredients and bake the casserole. Finally, keep an oven mitt handy for safely removing the hot casserole from the oven.
What You Need to Make Cheesy Green Bean Casserole
- 2 lbs green beans (cut into 2-inch pieces)
- 1 Tbsp avocado oil
- 6 strips thick cut bacon
- 1 large yellow onion (chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 15-oz can full-fat canned coconut milk*
- 6 ounces colby jack cheese (grated**)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (divided)
- ¼ tsp black pepper (to taste)
How to Cook Cheesy Green Bean Casserole Step by Step
Start by heating a large pot of water on the stovetop and bringing it to a full boil. Once boiling, add the trimmed and chopped green beans. You will need to cook these for about 8 to 10 minutes. The goal is to soften the beans while keeping them slightly al dente. This process ensures a pleasant texture that is not too crunchy.
After cooking, drain the green beans in a colander and press out excess water with a paper towel. Transfer the drained beans into a large casserole dish. Drizzle the green beans with one tablespoon of avocado oil and sprinkle with half a teaspoon of sea salt. Mix everything well until the beans are lightly coated in oil and salt.
While the green beans are cooking, you can prep the other ingredients. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. In a large skillet, heat it over medium-high heat. Add the strips of bacon to the skillet, flipping them every two minutes. Cook the bacon until it becomes crispy and much of the fat is rendered. Once crispy, transfer the bacon to a cutting board and let it cool.
Once the bacon has cooled, chop it into small bits. Utilize the remaining bacon fat in the skillet for sautéing the onions. Keep the skillet on medium-high heat and add the chopped onions. Sauté the onions until softened, which should take about 5 to 8 minutes. Add the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Next, stir in the canned coconut milk and bring the mixture to a boil. Allow this mixture to boil for about five minutes, stirring occasionally. Once it has thickened, add in the grated cheese, most of the chopped bacon bits, the remaining half teaspoon of salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until you achieve a creamy, thick sauce that is well-combined.
It is important to note that if you choose to use cream instead of coconut milk, keep a close watch on the sauce. You do not want it to come to an uncontrolled boil; instead, let it gently simmer until it thickens.
Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the green beans in the casserole dish. Mix well until every green bean is coated in the cheesy goodness. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of the saucy green beans and add any extra cheese if you desire. Bake the casserole in your preheated oven for 20 to 30 minutes or until the cheese is golden-brown and the sauce is bubbling.
Once baked, remove the Cheesy Green Bean Casserole from the oven and top with the remaining bacon bits. Serve this delicious dish alongside your main entrée, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!
how to make Cheesy Green Bean Casserole
Making Cheesy Green Bean Casserole is straightforward and enjoyable. Start by preparing your ingredients. Cut the green beans into 2-inch pieces and chop the onions and garlic.
Next, cook your bacon until it is crispy, allowing the fat to render that will later be used for sautéing. Sauté your onions in the rendered bacon fat for maximum flavor. Add the minced garlic a couple of minutes after the onions to infuse that garlicky aroma.
After cooking the onions and garlic, stir in the coconut milk and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add your cheese, bacon bits, salt, and pepper. Pour this saucy mixture over the green beans, combine everything, and top with more cheese if desired. After baking, serve hot, and you will have a delicious dish ready to be enjoyed.
how to serve Cheesy Green Bean Casserole
Serving Cheesy Green Bean Casserole is a breeze. Once it is out of the oven and slightly cooled, you can easily dish it out onto plates. Use a spatula to scoop up portions, ensuring to get some of the golden cheese topping and the coated green beans.
This casserole can be served as a side dish to any main meal, whether it’s a holiday feast, potluck, or everyday dinner. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even meatloaf.
Go ahead and sprinkle a bit of fresh black pepper or parsley on top for an additional touch before serving. The blend of creamy cheese with bacon and green beans will surely impress your guests!
what to serve with Cheesy Green Bean Casserole
Cheesy Green Bean Casserole pairs excellently with many main dishes. You can serve it alongside a and juicy roast chicken, pork tenderloin, or even a hearty beef roast. The casserole’s creamy and savory flavors complement the richness of these meats.
For lighter options, consider serving with baked fish or grilled vegetables. A simple side salad can also add freshness to the meal. The variety in textures and flavors will create a well-rounded dinner plate that everyone can appreciate.
If you plan a holiday dinner, traditional options like turkey or ham can be delightful companions to this casserole, making for a festive and delicious meal.
how to store Cheesy Green Bean Casserole
Storing Cheesy Green Bean Casserole is simple and straightforward. If you have any leftovers, allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container.
Store the leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three to four days. When you’re ready to enjoy the casserole again, reheat it in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions if you prefer faster heating.
If you would like to store the casserole for a longer period, consider freezing it before baking. Let it cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. You can freeze the uncooked casserole for up to three months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake it as directed.
tips to make Cheesy Green Bean Casserole
To achieve the best Cheesy Green Bean Casserole, here are some helpful tips. First, ensure that your green beans are fresh and bright in color. Choosing high-quality ingredients will greatly enhance the flavors of the dish.
When cooking the bacon, take care not to overcook it. The bacon should be crispy but not burnt. You want to retain its delicious flavor while adding texture to the casserole.
If you’re looking for more flavor, consider adding spices like garlic powder or onion powder into the sauce. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different kinds of cheese for an added twist. Cheddar or Monterey Jack could work wonderfully as well!
variation
Cheesy Green Bean Casserole can easily be modified to suit different tastes. One variation is to swap the green beans for other vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts. This will add a different flavor profile to the dish.
For a crunchy topping, consider adding breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter and toasted nuts. This will give an extra layer of texture to the casserole.
If you want a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the sauce. This will create a nice kick for those who enjoy spiciness in their meals.
best time to make Cheesy Green Bean Casserole
The best time to make Cheesy Green Bean Casserole is during holidays or special family gatherings. This dish is a great addition to festive meals, as it provides warmth and comfort.
Additionally, it makes for an excellent weeknight dinner side that can be prepared quickly. It’s also great for meal prep, allowing you to have a delicious side ready to go.
Even during regular seasons, this casserole can be a lovely dish to share with family or friends at get-togethers.
common mistakes to avoid
To avoid common mistakes, ensure not to overcook the green beans in the boiling process. This will prevent them from turning mushy. Aim for a slight crunch, so they hold their texture within the casserole.
Avoid skipping the step of draining the beans thoroughly after cooking. Excess moisture can lead to a watery casserole, affecting the overall texture and flavor.
Also, be cautious with the seasoning. Adding too much salt can overpower the dish. Always taste your sauce before mixing it with the beans to adjust flavors accordingly.
nutritional notes
While Cheesy Green Bean Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish, it’s essential to note its nutrition. The dish contains healthy green beans, providing fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Adding bacon and cheese, however, increases the fat and calorie content. To make a lighter version, consider reducing the cheese or using low-fat alternatives.
Substituting coconut milk for heavy cream can also make it a bit healthier while retaining the creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I make Cheesy Green Bean Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the day before. Just store it in the refrigerator, and bake when you’re ready to serve.
Can I use fresh green beans instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh green beans will give you a better texture and flavor, enhancing the overall dish.
What if I don’t have coconut milk?
If you don’t have coconut milk, using heavy cream or a non-dairy milk alternative can work instead. Just monitor the temperature to prevent boiling.
conclusion
Cheesy Green Bean Casserole is a delightful twist on a classic dish. With the rich flavors of cheese and crispy bacon, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.
Easy to prepare and bursting with taste, it fits perfectly into any meal, whether a holiday feast or a casual family dinner. From its creamy texture to its satisfying crunch, this recipe has everything needed for a wonderful side dish.
Make this delicious casserole and bask in the smiles of your loved ones as they enjoy every bite!
