The aroma of Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole wafts through the kitchen, a delightful harmony of cheesy goodness and the crisp freshness of green beans. add a crunchy salad Imagine the rich, creamy sauce enveloping the beans, topped with a crunchy layer that promises to satisfy your cravings. refreshing apple and feta salad

Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I prepare Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole ahead of time?
- What can I use instead of cream?
- How do I make it gluten-free?
- 📖 Recipe Card
This dish isn’t just about flavor; it’s a celebration of family gatherings and cozy dinners. I remember the first time I served it at Thanksgiving; my uncle practically inhaled his serving, declaring it the best side dish ever. perfect side salad pairing The perfect blend of nostalgia and comfort, this casserole is ideal for holidays or casual weeknight dinners.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
- Its unique flavor profile features creamy cheese and fresh green beans that will leave everyone wanting more.
- The vibrant colors make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Versatile enough to be enjoyed as a side or main dish, this recipe fits any meal plan effortlessly.
I once made this casserole for a potluck, and my friends couldn’t stop raving about it!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Green Beans: Choose crisp, bright green beans for best texture and flavor.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: Use a good-quality brand for an extra creamy base. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Scalloped Potatoes recipe.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar to enhance the cheesy flavor. For more inspiration, check out this Baked Mac and Cheese recipe.
- French Fried Onions: These add a delightful crunch to the top of your casserole.
- Milk: Use whole milk for richness, but low-fat works in a pinch.
- Butter: A little melted butter adds depth to the flavors.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare yourself for an adventure in cooking as we bring our Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole to life!
Gather Your Ingredients: Start by collecting all your ingredients on the counter. This makes it easier to follow along without any last-minute scrambles.
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking while you prepare your casserole.
Prep the Green Beans: Trim the ends off your green beans and rinse them under cold water. You want them nice and clean before adding them to the mix.
Mix Up the Base: In a large bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, and half of your cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth—this is where all that creaminess starts!
Add the Beans: Gently fold in the prepped green beans with a spatula until they’re fully coated in that cheesy mixture.
Bake and Top: Pour everything into a greased baking dish. Bake for 25 minutes until bubbly. Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese and French fried onions over top; bake for another 10 minutes until golden brown.
Now you have yourself a beautiful Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole that’s ready to impress! Serve hot and enjoy those satisfied faces around your dinner table!
You Must Know
- Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole is a delightful twist on a classic.
- The combination of savory cheddar and crispy topping elevates your holiday table, making it not just a side dish but the star of the show.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by blanching the green beans for crispness, then mix them with cheese and cream before topping with crackers. This sequence ensures each element retains its flavor while baking perfectly together.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap green beans for asparagus or add bacon bits for extra crunch. Experiment with different cheeses too; gouda or pepper jack can elevate flavors even more.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for optimal texture and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Keep your green beans bright green by shocking them in ice water after blanching.
- Use fresh ingredients for a vibrant taste that’s unmatched.
- And don’t skimp on the cheese; it’s what makes this casserole irresistibly good!
Nothing beats the look on my friends’ faces when they tasted this cheesy goodness for the first time. They couldn’t believe how delicious green beans could be!
FAQ
Can I prepare Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead and bake it before serving.
What can I use instead of cream?
Milk or a dairy-free alternative works well if you want a lighter option. grilled chicken option.
How do I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers for the topping instead of regular ones.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the irresistible Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole, where fresh green beans meet a creamy cheddar sauce, all topped with a crunchy layer of French fried onions. This comforting side dish is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or cozy weeknight dinners. With its vibrant flavors and delightful textures, it’s sure to become a favorite at your table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup French fried onions
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Blanch green beans in boiling water for 3 minutes, then transfer to ice water to maintain color and crunch.
- In a large bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, milk, and 1 cup of cheddar cheese until smooth.
- Fold in the blanched green beans until well coated.
- Pour mixture into a greased baking dish and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove from oven, sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese and French fried onions on top, then bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 30mg