If you think you know green bean casserole, get ready to meet your new holiday obsession: Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole! This recipe takes the nostalgic family favorite to a whole new level with tender green beans, a creamy, cheesy sauce, and a topper of golden, buttery Cheddar Bay biscuits that steal the show every single time. Whether you’re wowing a crowd or spicing up a regular weeknight dinner, this casserole delivers everything you love – creaminess, crunch, and that unmistakable Cheddar Bay flavor in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole keeps things straightforward, highlighting each simple ingredient for maximum flavor and texture. Every component—fresh green beans, melty cheddar, and those famous biscuits—plays a crucial role in making this dish irresistible.
- Fresh green beans (1 lb): Fresh is best for crisp texture and vibrant color, but you can swap in thawed frozen beans if needed.
- Salt (1 tablespoon): Seasoning your boiling water brings out the beans’ natural color and flavor.
- Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons): Adds rich, creamy depth to the sauce and biscuit topping.
- Yellow onion (1 small, finely chopped): Brings sweetness and aromatic base to the filling.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the sauce with irresistible savory flavor.
- All-purpose flour (1/4 cup): Thickens the luscious cream sauce.
- Whole milk (1 1/2 cups): Makes the sauce deliciously rich and smooth.
- Chicken or vegetable broth (1/2 cup): Adds savory depth; choose vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Punches up the flavor with a subtle tang.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Layered garlicky goodness throughout the casserole.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): A little kick to balance the creaminess.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Ensures every layer is perfectly seasoned.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (1 1/2 cups): Melts into a gooey, flavorful sauce that’s completely crave-worthy.
- Cheddar Bay biscuit mix (1 cup, such as Red Lobster brand): For that iconic biscuit topping that bakes up fluffy and golden.
- Milk (1/3 cup, for biscuit topping): Moistens the biscuit dough for the perfect drop-biscuit texture.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons, melted): Brushed over the biscuits for an irresistible, buttery finish.
- Dried parsley (1/4 teaspoon, optional): A sprinkle on top adds color and a hint of freshness.
How to Make Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole
Step 1: Blanch the Green Beans
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and add your trimmed, cut green beans. Blanch them for 3 to 4 minutes until they’re bright green and just tender–this locks in their vibrant color while keeping a pleasant snap. Be sure to drain them promptly, then rinse under cold water to stop the cooking before setting them aside. This simple step gives your Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole a gorgeous base and perfect bite.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, letting it cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Toss in the garlic for one more minute, just until your kitchen smells heavenly and the base of your casserole is irresistible.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
Sprinkle flour over the sautéed onion and garlic, stirring constantly for a full minute to create a smooth roux. Now gradually whisk in the whole milk and broth, taking your time to make sure there are no lumps. Let the mixture gently simmer for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often, until it thickens into a luxurious sauce. Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and—star of the show—your shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts into creamy, dreamy perfection.
Step 4: Combine with Green Beans
Remove your skillet from the heat and gently fold in the blanched green beans. Be sure every bean is coated in that velvety cheese sauce. Pour everything into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, smoothing the top for an even, inviting layer.
Step 5: Make and Top with Cheddar Bay Biscuits
Grab your Cheddar Bay biscuit mix and stir with 1/3 cup milk until just combined—no need to overmix. Drop heaping spoonfuls over the casserole, scattering biscuits evenly so every serving gets a fluffy topper. Brush each drop-biscuit with melted butter and sprinkle them with a touch of dried parsley for color and a little extra magic.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Slide the baking dish onto the center rack of your preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the biscuit topping has turned a glorious golden brown. Let it rest for about 5 minutes so everything can settle—and so you don’t burn your eager tongue!
How to Serve Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole
Garnishes
For a picture-perfect presentation, sprinkle a dusting of dried parsley over the casserole right after baking. You can also add a little extra shredded cheese or serve with crispy onions for a traditional touch. If you love a pop of color, a handful of chopped chives or even freshly cracked black pepper will really make your Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole stand out.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines alongside classic holiday mains like roast turkey, ham, or prime rib, but it’s equally delicious with weeknight favorites like rotisserie chicken or grilled pork chops. Try serving it next to mashed potatoes, stuffing, or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal where the Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole can really show off.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try baking individual portions in ramekins for a dinner party, or serve scoops of the casserole atop grilled chicken breasts for a hearty, all-in-one main dish. At a potluck, transport it in a slow cooker to keep it warm and bubbly—just ladle out generous helpings and watch everyone swoon over your Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, rejoice! Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole keeps beautifully in the fridge. Allow the dish to cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or transfer to airtight containers. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, ready for quick reheating whenever you need a cheesy, comforting treat.
Freezing
Want to plan ahead or save leftovers for another time? You can freeze the fully baked casserole. Wrap the cooled dish well in plastic wrap and foil, or stash servings in airtight freezer containers. While biscuits may lose a bit of tenderness, the flavors stay fantastic for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through—usually about 20 minutes. For a quick fix, you can also zap individual portions in the microwave, though the biscuits are at their fluffiest straight from the oven. If you like the topping extra crisp, uncover during the last few minutes of reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Absolutely! While fresh green beans offer the nicest crunch and flavor, frozen (thawed) green beans work in a pinch. Be sure to drain them well to avoid watering down the filling. You don’t need to blanch them—just mix right into the sauce.
Is there a vegetarian version of Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole?
Yes! Simply use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth and ensure your Cheddar Bay biscuit mix is vegetarian-friendly. All the cheesy, savory, biscuit-topped goodness stays intact, perfect for any guest at your table.
Can I prep this casserole ahead of time?
You sure can. Assemble the entire Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole, minus the biscuit topping, up to 24 hours in advance. Refrigerate covered, then add the biscuit layer just before baking to ensure maximum fluffiness and a melt-in-your-mouth crumb.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
For best results, cover the casserole and reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through. The biscuit topping will regain some of its crisp texture, and the cheesy filling will be just as satisfying as day one. Individual servings can be microwaved, but keep an eye out so the biscuits don’t overcook.
Can I add protein or more veggies to this dish?
Definitely! Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole is a fabulous blank canvas for your favorites. Try folding in cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or even diced cooked chicken for an even heartier bake. Just make sure any additions are fully cooked before mixing in.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a casserole that’s both comforting and a little bit special, Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole is calling your name. Don’t just save it for the holidays—bring this cheesy, biscuit-topped delight to your next gathering or family dinner and watch it disappear. Trust me, once you taste this upgraded classic, you’ll never go back!
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Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole, a delicious twist on a classic side dish featuring tender green beans in a creamy, cheesy sauce topped with savory Cheddar Bay biscuits.
Ingredients
Main Casserole:
- 1 lb fresh green beans (trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces)
- 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Cheddar Bay Biscuit Topping:
- 1 cup Cheddar Bay biscuit mix (such as Red Lobster brand)
- 1/3 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the green beans: Blanch green beans in boiling salted water for 3–4 minutes, then drain and rinse under cold water.
- Make the sauce: In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic, then whisk in flour, milk, and broth. Stir in seasonings and cheddar cheese.
- Combine and bake: Mix in green beans, transfer to a baking dish, top with biscuit mixture, brush with butter, and bake for 25–30 minutes.
- Serve: Let cool briefly before serving.
Notes
- Fresh green beans are recommended for the best texture, but frozen green beans can be used as well.
- Enhance the dish with additions like cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms.
- Leftovers can be easily reheated in the oven or microwave.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
