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Cozy Garlic Parmesan Green Bean Casserole—Easy Holiday Side

garlic parmesan green bean casserole - featured image

This cozy garlic Parmesan green bean casserole is a fresh take on the classic, featuring a creamy garlic sauce, tender green beans, and a crispy Parmesan breadcrumb topping. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for holidays or weeknight comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ pounds (680g) fresh green beans, trimmed and halved
  • 3 tablespoons (42g) unsalted butter
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons (16g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
  • ½ cup (120ml) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup (100g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup (60g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup (60g) panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Position a rack in the middle of the oven. Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil.
  2. Blanch the green beans: Add the trimmed green beans to the boiling water and cook for 3 minutes. Drain immediately in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking. Set aside.
  3. Start the sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once it’s foaming, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Do not let it brown.
  4. Make the roux: Sprinkle the flour over the garlic butter and whisk constantly for 1 minute.
  5. Add the liquids: Slowly pour in the heavy cream while whisking, then add the broth. Keep whisking until the sauce is smooth and starts to thicken, about 2-3 minutes.
  6. Add the cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in ¾ cup of the grated Parmesan and all of the shredded mozzarella. Whisk until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  7. Combine with beans: Add the blanched green beans to the skillet and toss to coat evenly.
  8. Transfer to baking dish: Pour the green bean mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it into an even layer.
  9. Make the topping: In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the remaining ¼ cup of Parmesan. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
  10. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the sauce is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. If desired, broil for the last 1-2 minutes for extra color.
  11. Rest and serve: Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan from a block. If using frozen green beans, thaw and pat dry before using. The sauce can be made up to 2 days ahead. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the sauce to set.

Nutrition

Keywords: green bean casserole, garlic Parmesan, holiday side, easy side dish, vegetarian, comfort food