Garlic Parmesan Green Bean Casserole

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INTRODUCTION

Garlic Parmesan Green Bean Casserole is a warm, simple dish that many people love. It blends fresh green beans with a creamy garlic sauce and sharp Parmesan cheese. The top gets a crunch from crispy fried onions. This dish works well for weeknight dinners and holiday tables alike. If you like creamy garlic flavors, you might also enjoy a slow cooked pasta dish like the best crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta for a fuller meal idea.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

You will love this recipe because it tastes rich but is easy to make. The sauce feels smooth and buttery. The Parmesan adds a bright, salty note. The green beans stay bright and not mushy. The fried onions on top add a nice crunch. The recipe uses simple ingredients you may already have. It cooks fast and it feeds a crowd. It is also a good side that pairs with many main dishes.

HOW TO MAKE Garlic Parmesan Green Bean Casserole

This casserole mixes steamed green beans with a simple, cheesy sauce. You make the sauce on the stove, mix the beans in, and bake the dish until it is bubbly and warm. Finish with crispy onions for crunch. Read the steps below to make it easy and clear. For another garlic and rice pairing, try the tasty chicken with garlic parmesan rice for a different meal choice: chicken with garlic parmesan rice.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

• Large pot or steamer for the green beans
• Large skillet for the sauce
• Whisk or wooden spoon for stirring
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Colander to drain beans
• Oven mitts and timer

Ingredients You’ll Need :

• 1.5 lbs fresh green beans, trimmed
• 4 tbsp butter
• 1 small yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 (6 oz) can crispy fried onions, divided

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Steam or boil green beans until crisp-tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
4. Stir in flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until sauce has thickened. Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
6. Add green beans to the sauce and toss to coat.
7. Pour green bean mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
8. Top with half of the crispy fried onions.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
10. Sprinkle remaining crispy fried onions over the top and bake for 5 more minutes, or until onions are golden brown.
11. Let stand for a few minutes before serving.

HOW TO SERVE Garlic Parmesan Green Bean Casserole

Serve this casserole hot from the oven. Spoon it onto plates beside your main dish. It pairs well with roasted chicken, baked ham, or grilled steak. For a full plate, add mashed potatoes or simple rice. A crisp green salad also adds a fresh note. If you need an easy pairing idea, consider serving it with the creamy flavors of the crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta for a hearty meal that balances vegetables and protein.

STORAGE & FREEZING : Garlic Parmesan Green Bean Casserole

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool to room temperature. Cover the dish tightly with foil or move the food to an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 325°F until hot, about 15-20 minutes. You can also cover and heat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring each time.
To freeze, place the cooled casserole in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating in the oven. Note: the crispy fried onions may lose crunch after freezing. For best texture, add fresh fried onions before baking when reheating.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

• Serve next to roasted turkey for a holiday plate.
• Pair with a simple grilled chicken breast and steamed rice.
• Add to a buffet with mashed potatoes, rolls, and cranberry sauce.
• Offer lemon wedges or a light vinaigrette salad on the side for a fresh contrast.
• Set out extra Parmesan and black pepper for guests to season their own servings.

VARIATIONS

You can change this recipe to match your taste. Try these simple ideas:

• Use sharp cheddar in place of Parmesan for a different cheese flavor.
• Add cooked bacon bits on top for a smoky note.
• Stir in sliced mushrooms with the onion for a deeper flavor.
• Swap frozen green beans if fresh are not available; cook a little less so they do not get mushy.
• For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and reduce butter by 1 tablespoon.
  If you want a meal with similar garlic and cheese notes, try a dish like chicken with garlic parmesan rice for a different texture and taste: a garlic parmesan rice option.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen green beans in this casserole?
A: Yes. Thaw and drain frozen beans well. Cook a little less in the sauce so they keep some texture.

Q: Can I make this dairy free?
A: You can use dairy-free milk and a plant-based butter. Use a vegan Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast for a cheesy note.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. You can assemble the casserole and keep it covered in the fridge. Bake when you are ready. See the make-ahead tips below for details.

Q: How do I keep the crispy onions crunchy?
A: Add half the onions before baking and the rest at the end. If you store leftovers, add fresh onions before serving.

Q: Is the sauce thick enough to hold the beans?
A: The flour and milk make a smooth sauce. If it seems thin, simmer a minute longer. The sauce will thicken as it cools.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Garlic Parmesan Green Bean Casserole

You can save time by preparing parts ahead. Steam and cool the green beans, then store them in the fridge for a day. Make the sauce and keep it in a covered container for up to one day. When ready to serve, mix the beans and sauce, top with onions, and bake as directed. For a full make-ahead meal, assemble the whole casserole in the baking dish, cover tightly, and keep in the fridge overnight. Bake a few extra minutes if cold from the fridge. Add the final crispy onions in the last 5 minutes of baking to keep them crisp.

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