Green Bean Casserole: Should You Add Cheese?

does green bean casserole get cheese on it

Green bean casserole is a classic holiday side dish that can be made with just a few simple ingredients. While the traditional recipe calls for canned green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and French-fried onions, some people like to add a cheesy twist to this classic dish. The addition of cheese, usually shredded cheddar, gives the casserole a richer and more comforting flavor, making it an even more indulgent treat. So, if you're looking to take your green bean casserole to the next level, consider adding some cheese!

Characteristics Values
Cheese type Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Mozzarella, Gouda, Colby Jack, Parmesan
Cheese amount 1/2 cup, 1 and a half cups
Cheese state Shredded, grated
Cheese placement Layered with beans and onions, on top
Other ingredients Green beans, mushrooms, French-fried onions, bacon, milk, cream, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, black pepper, red pepper flakes, salt

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Green bean casserole recipes with cheese

Green bean casserole is a classic dish often served during the holidays or at large family gatherings. While the traditional recipe does not include cheese, many modern variations call for the addition of shredded cheddar, giving the casserole a richer and more comforting flavour. Here are some mouth-watering recipes for green bean casseroles with a cheesy twist!

Cheesy Green Bean Casserole

This recipe is perfect for those who want a creamy, savoury, and cheesy casserole with a crunchy topping. It is made with sharp cheddar cheese and topped with crispy fried onions. The addition of cheese creates an extra rich and gooey filling that coats the tender green beans.

Ingredients:

  • Sharp Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
  • French-cut Green Beans (canned or fresh)
  • Crispy Fried Onions
  • Cream of Mushroom Soup
  • Cream of Celery Soup
  • Kosher Salt
  • Cooking Spray, Butter, or Olive Oil

Optional Ingredients:

  • Worcestershire Sauce or Soy Sauce
  • Black Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes, Chopped Onions, or Onion Powder

Directions:

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a baking dish and set it aside.
  • In a large bowl, gently combine the drained green beans, cream of mushroom soup, cream of celery soup, half of the crispy fried onions, half of the grated cheddar cheese, and salt.
  • Mix everything well and layer it with extra cheese and onions.
  • Pop it in the oven and bake for 30 minutes or until the mixture is bubbling.
  • Remove the cover and top the casserole with the remaining fried onions and cheese.
  • Return to the oven for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is nicely browned.

Green Bean Casserole with Cheddar Cheese

This recipe is perfect for those who want a quick and easy casserole with a crispy crust. It uses extra sharp cheddar cheese and French-fried onions, resulting in a delicious and crispy dish.

Ingredients:

  • Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
  • French-fried Onions
  • Canned or Fresh Green Beans
  • Mushroom Soup

Optional Ingredients:

  • Crumbled Bacon
  • Sautéed Mushrooms or Onions
  • Garlic
  • Parmesan Cheese
  • Black Pepper

Directions:

  • Mix the green beans and mushroom soup in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave until warm.
  • Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese and microwave until melted and well-blended.
  • Transfer the mixture to a prepared baking dish.
  • Top with French-fried onions and the remaining cheddar cheese.
  • Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until the cheese is melted and the onions are golden brown, about 10 minutes.

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as mild cheddar, Parmesan, or Colby Jack, and add your favourite ingredients to make it your own!

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Types of cheese used in green bean casserole

Green bean casserole is a popular dish, especially during the holidays. While there are many ways to make this dish, some recipes call for cheese, which can be added as an ingredient or used as a topping. Here are some of the types of cheese that can be used in a green bean casserole:

Cheddar Cheese

Cheddar cheese is one of the most popular choices for green bean casseroles. It can be shredded or grated and mixed into the casserole, providing a rich and comforting flavour. Extra sharp cheddar cheese can also be used to create a crispy crust.

Monterey Jack Cheese

Monterey Jack cheese is recommended by some due to its mild and creamy flavour. It melts easily, making it a good option for casseroles.

Mozzarella, Gouda, or Other Melting Cheeses

Other melting cheeses such as mozzarella or gouda can be used as alternatives to Monterey Jack, offering a similar creamy texture to the dish.

Parmesan Cheese

Parmesan cheese is suggested as a topping to add to the crunch of the casserole. It can be sprinkled on top of the French-fried onions to enhance the texture and flavour.

Cream Cheese

Cream cheese is mentioned as an ingredient in a variation of the green bean casserole, creating a creamy and rich base for the dish.

The type of cheese used in a green bean casserole can be tailored to personal preference and the desired flavour profile. Whether used as a sauce, a topping, or mixed into the casserole, cheese adds a delicious touch to this classic dish.

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How to cook green beans for a casserole

Green bean casserole is a popular dish, especially during the holidays. It can be made with fresh, frozen, or canned green beans, and the process for cooking the beans for the casserole differs depending on the type of beans used.

If using fresh green beans, it is recommended to blanch them before adding them to the casserole. To blanch the beans, start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add about 2 tablespoons of salt per gallon of water. Once the water is boiling, add the beans and cook them for around 5 minutes. Then, drain the beans and immediately plunge them into ice water or an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This step ensures that the beans do not overcook and become mushy. After blanching, the beans will finish cooking in the oven as the casserole bakes.

For frozen green beans, it is recommended to thaw and drain them before adding them to the casserole. Canned green beans can be used directly from the can, but it is important to drain the liquid before mixing them with the other ingredients.

Once the green beans are prepared, they can be combined with the other ingredients to create the casserole. A traditional green bean casserole typically includes ingredients such as condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, French-fried onions, and cheese, commonly shredded cheddar. However, there are many variations and optional ingredients that can be added to customize the dish, such as bacon, mushrooms, garlic, and black pepper.

To assemble the casserole, mix the green beans, soup, milk, and half of the fried onions in a medium casserole dish. If desired, you can also add cheese to this mixture. Bake the casserole in the oven at a temperature between 350 to 375 degrees Fahrenheit until it is heated through and bubbly, which usually takes around 25 to 30 minutes. Once the casserole is cooked, you can sprinkle the remaining fried onions on top, along with any desired additional cheese, and return it to the oven for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and the onions are golden brown.

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Other ingredients that can be added to a green bean casserole

Green bean casserole is a versatile dish that can be customised with various ingredients to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some ideas for ingredients that can be added to a green bean casserole:

Cheese

Cheese is a popular addition to green bean casseroles, with options such as sharp, mild, or a blend of shredded Cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan cheese. Some recipes suggest stirring in the cheese with the other ingredients, while others recommend sprinkling it on top before baking.

Bacon

Adding cooked and crumbled bacon to a green bean casserole can enhance its flavour and texture. Thicker bacon may provide a different texture than thinner bacon, and different types of bacon, such as Applewood, can add a smokier flavour.

Mushrooms

Mushrooms are commonly added to green bean casseroles, with options such as straw mushrooms, button mushrooms, portobello mushrooms, or shiitake mushrooms. Sautéed or straw mushrooms can add a unique flavour, while shiitake mushrooms have a stronger, earthier taste for a more distinct flavour.

Onions

Onions are a staple ingredient in green bean casseroles, with French-fried onions being a popular choice. However, you can also experiment with different types of onions, such as shallots, or adjust the amount of onion used to suit your taste.

Cream of Mushroom Soup

While condensed cream of mushroom soup is a common ingredient in green bean casseroles, you can experiment with different types of soup, such as cream of celery soup or golden mushroom soup. You can also make your own homemade cream of mushroom soup if you prefer a more customised flavour.

Spices and Condiments

Adding spices and condiments to your green bean casserole can enhance its flavour. Some options include milk, ground black pepper, cayenne pepper, Worcestershire sauce, rosemary, soy sauce, or red miso paste. These ingredients can be added to taste, allowing you to control the intensity of the flavours.

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How long does it take to make a green bean casserole?

Green bean casserole is a beloved dish that has been a Thanksgiving tradition since 1955. It is a simple dish to make, and can be prepared in advance, making it a great option for family gatherings and holidays. The time it takes to make this dish depends on the recipe followed and the method of preparation.

The first step in making a green bean casserole is to prepare the green beans. If using fresh green beans, they need to be rinsed, trimmed, and halved before blanching. Blanching involves cooking the beans in boiling water for about 3 minutes, or more if you prefer them softer, and then plunging them into ice-cold water to stop the cooking process. This step ensures the beans retain their vibrant colour and crisp texture. Canned green beans can also be used as a convenient alternative, saving time on chopping and trimming.

The next step is to create the sauce. A traditional sauce includes condensed mushroom soup, milk, and optional additions like sour cream, black pepper, or cayenne pepper for added flavour. For a creamier sauce, butter, flour, and chicken broth can be added. This sauce can be customised to suit individual preferences, with some recipes suggesting a plain white sauce as a base, which can be adapted with different types of cheese, mustard, or mushrooms.

Once the sauce is prepared, it is combined with the green beans and other ingredients like bacon, garlic, and onions. The mixture is then transferred to a casserole dish and topped with French-fried onions and cheese. The casserole is then baked in the oven at temperatures ranging from 350°F to 450°F (232°C). The baking time varies depending on the recipe, but it typically takes around 10 to 30 minutes for the casserole to be heated through and for the cheese to melt and the onions to turn golden brown.

Some recipes suggest making the fried onions from scratch, while others recommend using store-bought options to save time. Additionally, the casserole can be prepared in advance and frozen for up to three months. When ready to serve, it can be thawed in the fridge overnight and then baked in the oven. Reheating individual portions can be done in the microwave for 30 seconds, while reheating larger amounts can be done in the oven at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes.

Overall, the time required to make a green bean casserole depends on the specific recipe and preparation methods. However, it is generally a straightforward dish to prepare, and with some advance preparation, it can be a convenient and tasty option for gatherings and holidays.

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Frequently asked questions

Yes, green bean casserole can be made with cheese. It is not a necessary ingredient, but it is a popular addition.

Cheddar cheese is a popular choice for green bean casserole, but you could also use Monterey Jack, Mozzarella, Gouda, Parmesan, or Colby Jack.

This depends on the recipe you are following, but typically you will need around 1-2 cups of grated cheese.

You should add half the cheese to the green bean mixture before baking, and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top before putting it in the oven.

Yes, green bean casserole is a versatile dish that can be customised with various ingredients. Popular additions include bacon, mushrooms, garlic, and fried onions.

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