Green Bean Casserole with Fresh Green Beans and Cheese
A Creamy, Cheesy Side Dish Made from Scratch with Farm-Fresh Green Beans and a Crispy, Golden Topping.
Servings
6-8
Ready In:
50min
Calories:
~250 per serving
Good For:
Family gatherings
Inroduction
Green Bean Casserole with Fresh Green Beans and Cheese
By: Edina Sznida
Looking for a dish that combines comfort food with fresh, wholesome ingredients? This Green Bean Casserole with Fresh Green Beans and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy delight that’s perfect as a holiday side dish, a cozy weeknight dinner, or a contribution to a family gathering. Made from scratch with farm-fresh green beans and topped with a golden, crispy layer of breadcrumbs and cheese, this casserole elevates the classic version to a whole new level.
Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving, Christmas dinner, or a weekend potluck, this recipe is an easy, crowd-pleasing favorite that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why Make Green Bean Casserole from Scratch?
If you’ve only ever tried the canned version of this dish, you’re in for a treat. Making green bean casserole from scratch has several advantages:
- Farm-fresh flavor: Using garden-fresh beans ensures a crisp-tender texture and vibrant taste.
- Customizable creamy sauce: Skip the canned cream of mushroom soup and create a velvety sauce with real ingredients like butter, milk, and fresh aromatics.
- Cheese-forward twist: The addition of sharp cheddar cheese and Parmesan takes this casserole to gourmet levels.
- Perfectly crispy topping: Say goodbye to soggy toppings—our breadcrumb and cheese mixture adds just the right amount of crunch to every bite.
This homemade green bean casserole is proof that a little extra effort can yield spectacular results.
Ingredients
-
For the Casserole:
- 500 g fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups milk (whole or 2%)
- ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional, for a subtle depth)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1
1. Prep the Green Beans
Start by blanching the fresh green beans for a crisp-tender texture. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the green beans, and cook for 4–5 minutes. Drain and immediately plunge them into an ice bath to preserve their vibrant color and stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Step 2
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Step 3
Make the Creamy Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and whisk for 1–2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually pour in the milk and broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Once the sauce thickens, reduce the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese and ½ cup of the cheddar cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired.
Step 4
Combine the Beans and Sauce
Gently fold the blanched green beans into the sauce until evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 5
Add the Crispy Topping
In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Stir in the remaining cheddar cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.
Step 6
Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 190°C (375°F) for 20–25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
Step 7
Serve and Enjoy
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Pair it with mashed potatoes, roasted turkey, or a simple salad for a balanced meal.
Tips for the Best Green Bean Casserole
- Choose fresh green beans: Crisp, seasonal green beans make all the difference in texture and taste.
- Blanch and ice bath: This step ensures the beans stay tender without becoming mushy.
- Cheese variations: Experiment with gruyere or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.
- Make ahead: Prepare the casserole a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.
- Freeze leftovers: This casserole freezes well for up to 2 months—perfect for meal prep
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This green bean casserole with fresh green beans and cheese checks all the boxes:
- Hearty and satisfying: A creamy sauce and cheesy topping make it the ultimate comfort food.
- Versatile: Ideal for holidays, potlucks, or everyday dinners.
- Homemade goodness: No preservatives, just wholesome ingredients.
From its crisp-tender beans to its golden, crispy edges, this dish is a true celebration of homestyle cooking.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian twist: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth.
- Cream of mushroom upgrade: Add sautéed mushrooms for a traditional touch.
- Healthier option: Use low-fat milk and reduce the cheese slightly.
Final Thoughts
This fresh green bean casserole is a shining example of how simple, from-scratch recipes can bring a little magic to your table. With its tender green beans, creamy sauce, and cheesy topping, it’s destined to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Serve it as a Thanksgiving side dish, a centerpiece for a Christmas dinner, or a comforting addition to your weekly meal plan. No matter the occasion, this dish is sure to impress!
