Description
Green bean and potato casserole merges classic comfort with hearty vegetables from midwestern kitchens. Creamy sauce, crispy bacon, and golden breadcrumbs create a satisfying side dish you’ll crave at family gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (450 g) green beans, trimmed and halved
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or milk)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsps unsalted butter
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Vegetable Preparation: Bring a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Add diced potatoes and simmer for 8 minutes until slightly tender, then introduce green beans and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
- Flavor Foundation: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté diced onions until translucent. Incorporate minced garlic and cook briefly to release its aromatic properties.
- Cheese Sauce Creation: Pour heavy cream into the skillet, bringing to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, blending with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until achieving a smooth, velvety consistency.
- Casserole Assembly: Transfer potatoes and green beans to a casserole dish. Lavishly coat vegetables with the cheese sauce, ensuring even distribution. Optional: Sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs across the surface for added texture.
- Baking Process: Position the casserole in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top transforms into a golden, bubbling masterpiece. Allow a brief resting period after removing from the oven to let flavors meld and settle.
Notes
- Prevent Vegetable Overcooking: Monitor potato and green bean cooking time closely to maintain a crisp, tender texture without becoming mushy or losing nutritional value.
- Cheese Sauce Smoothness: Whisk cheese gradually and consistently to prevent lumps, ensuring a silky, uniform sauce that coats vegetables evenly.
- Enhance Breadcrumb Topping: Lightly toast breadcrumbs with melted butter before sprinkling for extra crunch and golden-brown color.
- Dietary Modifications: Substitute heavy cream with low-fat milk or plant-based alternatives for lighter version; use gluten-free breadcrumbs for celiac-friendly option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 33 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg