Looking for a hearty and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion? This Green Bean and Potato Casserole is a timeless comfort food that combines tender green beans, creamy potatoes, and a rich sauce for a dish everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, potluck, or simply craving a warm and cozy meal, this casserole has you covered.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this dish perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
- Versatile: Great as a side dish for roasted meats or as a standalone vegetarian meal.
- Nutritious and Flavorful: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and a creamy, savory taste.
Ingredients
To prepare this Green Bean and Potato Casserole, you’ll need the following:
Vegetables:
- 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed (or use canned green beans for convenience)
- 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional for a smoky touch)
Toppings:
- ½ cup bread crumbs or crushed crackers
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the Potatoes and Green Beans
- Boil the potatoes in salted water for 5-7 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
- Steam or blanch the green beans for 3-4 minutes if using fresh. Skip this step for canned beans.
3. Prepare the Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour to form a roux and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens.
- Stir in the cheddar cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
4. Assemble the Casserole
- Layer half of the potatoes on the bottom of the prepared dish.
- Top with half of the green beans, then pour half of the cheese sauce over the vegetables.
- Repeat with the remaining potatoes, green beans, and sauce.
5. Add the Topping
- Mix the bread crumbs with melted butter and Parmesan cheese.
- Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
6. Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and crispy. Let cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this casserole with roasted chicken or baked salmon for a complete meal.
- Serve as a standalone vegetarian main course with a side salad.
- Add diced ham or bacon for extra flavor and protein.
Tips and Variations
- Make it Creamier: Use heavy cream instead of milk for an extra-rich sauce.
- Add a Crunch: Toss in fried onions or crushed potato chips as part of the topping.
- Go Dairy-Free: Substitute non-dairy milk and cheese for a vegan-friendly version.
- Use Sweet Potatoes: Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a unique twist.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 240
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 4g
Conclusion
This Green Bean and Potato Casserole is a classic dish that brings comfort and joy to any table. Its creamy layers, crispy topping, and rich flavors make it an irresistible choice for any occasion. Bookmark this recipe for your next family dinner or holiday gathering—you’ll love how easy and satisfying it is to prepare!
Serving and Storage Tips for Green Bean and Potato Casserole
Serving Tips
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley, chives, or a dash of paprika over the top before serving for added color and taste.
- Serve Warm: This casserole is best enjoyed straight out of the oven when the cheese is gooey and the topping is crispy.
- Pair It Right:
- As a side dish, it complements roasted meats like turkey, chicken, or beef.
- As a main dish, pair it with a fresh garden salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration:
- Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before storing.
- Cover tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing:
- For longer storage, freeze the casserole.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or place in a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- Pro Tip: Freeze individual portions for easy reheating.
- Reheating:
- Oven: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. Remove foil in the last 5 minutes to crisp up the topping.
- Microwave: For quicker reheating, use a microwave. Heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through, though the topping may lose its crispness.
- Make-Ahead Option:
- Assemble the casserole (without the topping) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add the topping just before placing it in the oven for the freshest results.
With these tips, your Green Bean and Potato Casserole will stay fresh and delicious, ensuring you can enjoy leftovers or prepare in advance for stress-free meals!
1. Can I use canned or frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Canned green beans work well and save prep time—just be sure to drain them thoroughly. For frozen green beans, thaw and pat them dry before using to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
2. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole (without the topping) up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add the topping and bake as directed. This makes it perfect for busy schedules or holiday prep.
3. Can I make this casserole vegan or dairy-free?
Yes! Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative, use non-dairy milk (like almond or oat), and swap out regular cheese for a dairy-free version. Ensure your breadcrumbs or crackers are also vegan-friendly for the topping.
4. How can I make the casserole gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for the sauce. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers for the topping. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free!
Green Bean and Potato Casserole
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish, Casserole
- Cuisine: American-Inspired
Description
This Green Bean and Potato Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender green beans, creamy potatoes, and a cheesy sauce. Perfect as a side dish for family dinners or holiday gatherings, it’s simple to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) green beans, trimmed and halved
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or milk)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
1. Cook the Vegetables:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the diced potatoes and cook for 8 minutes.
- Add the green beans to the pot and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until both vegetables are tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
- In a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, combine the cooked green beans and potatoes.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the vegetables and gently mix to coat evenly.
4. Add the Topping (Optional):
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for a crispy finish. You can also mix the breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter for extra richness.
5. Bake:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
6. Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy as a side dish or a light main course.
Notes
- Add Protein: Include cooked bacon, diced ham, or grilled chicken for a more substantial dish.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
- Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable stock or plant-based cream and cheeses for a vegetarian-friendly version.