Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole is a fresh twist on the classic side dish we all know and love. It’s packed with tender green beans, a creamy cheddar sauce that’s rich and cheesy, and topped with a crispy, buttery cracker crust that gives just the right amount of crunch. This casserole brings together the comfort of cheesy goodness with the crisp freshness of the green beans.
I love making this casserole when I want something that feels special but isn’t complicated. The cheddar sauce makes it creamy without being too heavy, and the cracker topping adds a fun, unexpected texture that everyone always asks about. It’s a great way to sneak some extra veggies into the meal without anyone noticing because it’s just so tasty.
My favorite way to serve the Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole is right alongside a simple roasted chicken or a juicy piece of grilled steak. It also shines during holiday dinners when you want a side that’s a little different but still familiar enough to please the crowd. Whenever I bring this dish to a gathering, it tends to disappear fast, and that always makes me smile.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans give the best texture and flavor. If you’re in a pinch, canned beans work fine—just drain well. I like blanching fresh beans to keep them crisp but tender.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds that rich, bold flavor. You can swap for mild cheddar or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack if you want it creamier and less sharp.
Cheddar Bay Biscuits or Crackers: These crushed bits add crunch and buttery flavor. If you don’t have Cheddar Bay Biscuits, buttery crackers like Ritz or crushed buttery breadcrumbs work well too.
Butter & Flour (Roux): Butter helps build the creamy sauce, and the flour thickens it. Use all-purpose flour for best results, but gluten-free flour works if you need a gluten-free option.
How Do You Make a Smooth, Creamy Cheddar Sauce Without Lumps?
Making the sauce is key for creamy texture. Here’s how I do it:
- Melt butter and sauté onion and garlic gently—don’t rush this step to build flavor.
- Sprinkle flour evenly and stir constantly to make a roux. Cook for 1-2 mins to avoid a raw flour taste.
- Slowly whisk in chicken broth and then milk or half-and-half. Pour gradually to avoid lumps.
- Keep whisking until sauce thickens and becomes smooth—usually 3-5 minutes on medium heat.
- Turn heat low before adding cheese so it melts slowly without separating.
This slow, steady approach will give you a rich, smooth sauce that coats green beans beautifully. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash more milk to adjust consistency.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×9 inch baking dish – I like this size to hold all the ingredients comfortably and ensure even baking.
- Large skillet – perfect for making the creamy cheese sauce, and I find it easier to stir everything together.
- Whisk – helps mix the sauce smoothly without lumps.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate measurements of broth, milk, and seasonings.
- Colander or blanching basket – useful if you’re fresh blanching green beans to keep them crisp and green.
- Crushing tool or zip-top bag – handy for crushing the biscuits or crackers quickly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
Swap sharp cheddar for pepper jack or mozzarella for a milder, melty taste. Add cooked bacon or pancetta for smoky flavor. Mix in sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for extra richness. Use cayenne or paprika for a little spice if you like.
Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces (or 2 cans green beans, drained)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup half-and-half or whole milk
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed Cheddar Bay Biscuits or buttery crackers (such as Ritz), divided
- 1 cup French fried onions (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. So, in roughly 40 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, cheesy casserole ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep and Blanch Green Beans:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×9 inch baking dish. If you’re using fresh green beans, boil them in salted water for 3-4 minutes until they’re just tender-crisp. Then drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. If using canned, just drain and set aside.
2. Make the Cheddar Sauce:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir constantly to form a roux. Cook 1-2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste.
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and then the half-and-half or milk. Keep whisking until thickened and creamy, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, and 1 ½ cups of the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
3. Assemble and Bake:
Add the green beans to the cheddar sauce, stirring to combine well. Spread this mixture evenly into your greased baking dish.
Mix the crushed biscuits or crackers with the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese and French fried onions if you’re using them. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the casserole.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Enjoy this cozy, cheesy casserole with the perfect crunchy topping—great for any meal or special occasion!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead of Fresh or Canned?
Yes, frozen green beans work well! Just thaw them completely and pat dry to prevent extra moisture in the casserole.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Simple! Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth to keep all the flavor vegetarian-friendly.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
