Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 1/2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and halved widthwise
- 1 large shallot, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy & Fats
- 3 tablespoons butter, preferably unsalted
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
Liquids
- 1/3 cup dry white wine
- 1 cup chicken broth
Other
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup french fried onions (from a can)
- Cooking spray
- Salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Green Beans: Trim and halve the fresh green beans widthwise, then rinse and set aside while preparing the other ingredients.
- Cook Shallots and Garlic: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped shallot and minced garlic, sautéing until they become soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Make the Roux: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed shallots and garlic, stirring continuously to combine. Cook for about 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste, forming a light roux.
- Add Liquids: Slowly pour in the dry white wine, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Then add the chicken broth and half-and-half, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning: Reduce heat to low, then stir in the shredded sharp Cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season the cheese sauce with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
- Combine Green Beans and Sauce: Add the prepared green beans to the cheese sauce, stirring well to coat evenly.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer the green bean and cheese mixture to the baking dish. Sprinkle the chopped pecans and french fried onions evenly over the top. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your comforting Cheesy Green Bean Casserole!
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Adding cayenne pepper is optional but adds a slight kick to the dish.
- You can prepare the casserole ahead and refrigerate it before baking; just add an additional 5 minutes to the baking time if baked cold.
- Using fresh green beans instead of canned ensures better texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American