Green beans don’t always get the spotlight on the dinner table, but this recipe changes that. Imagine tender green beans coated in garlicky butter, then smothered with melty cheese and baked until bubbly and golden. It’s comfort food disguised as a side dish, and it has the power to turn even picky eaters into green bean lovers.
I first tried making cheesy garlic green beans on a busy weeknight when I wanted something quick, hearty, and a little indulgent without being a full-blown casserole. The result? An easy vegetable side that disappeared faster than the main course. The garlicky butter and gooey cheese create a flavor-packed bite, while the green beans keep the dish light enough to balance out richer entrées.
Whether you’re planning a holiday spread or just looking for a side dish that elevates everyday dinners, this cheesy green bean recipe delivers. It pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even Thanksgiving turkey. Plus, it takes minimal effort, making it one of those go-to recipes you’ll want to repeat again and again.
This recipe also works for meal prep — you can blanch the beans and prep the cheese mixture ahead of time, then just assemble and bake right before serving. It’s that combination of convenience and flavor that makes this recipe a true keeper.
Why You’ll Love It
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Cheesy and comforting – gooey melted cheese makes this dish irresistible.
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Quick prep – ready in under 30 minutes with simple steps.
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Garlic flavor – buttery garlic infuses the beans with bold, savory flavor.
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Crowd-pleaser – even kids who don’t love vegetables enjoy this one.
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Holiday-ready – fancy enough for Thanksgiving or Christmas, easy enough for weeknights.
Ingredient Notes & Details
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Green Beans – Fresh green beans work best for crisp-tender texture. Trim the ends before cooking. Frozen green beans can be used if thawed and patted dry.
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Butter – Unsalted butter is ideal to control saltiness. It adds richness and carries the garlic flavor.
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Garlic – Freshly minced garlic is key for maximum flavor. Avoid garlic powder unless you’re in a pinch.
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Cheese – A mix of mozzarella (for stretchiness) and Parmesan (for salty, nutty flavor) creates the perfect cheesy topping. You can also use cheddar for a sharper bite.
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Cream or Milk (optional) – A splash of heavy cream or whole milk can be added for a creamier sauce base.
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Seasonings – Salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prep the green beans
Wash and trim the ends of your fresh green beans. Bring a pot of salted water to boil and blanch the beans for 3–4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and immediately rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
Step 2 – Make the garlic butter
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3 – Toss the beans
Add the blanched green beans to the skillet and toss to coat them in the garlicky butter. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Step 4 – Assemble
Transfer the green beans into a baking dish. Sprinkle generously with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Step 5 – Bake
Place the dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Step 6 – Serve
Serve immediately while warm and cheesy. These green beans pair perfectly with roasted meats or as part of a holiday feast.
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Blanch the beans and prepare the garlic butter in advance. Store separately, then assemble with cheese just before baking.
Can I use frozen green beans?
Absolutely. Just thaw and pat them dry before cooking so they don’t release extra moisture in the oven.
What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
Mozzarella gives a gooey melt, while Parmesan adds sharpness. You can also try Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or sharp cheddar for variety.
Can I make this without baking?
Yes. Simply cook the beans in the skillet, sprinkle cheese on top, cover with a lid, and let the steam melt the cheese.
How do I keep the beans from getting mushy?
Don’t over-blanch them. Three to four minutes is plenty before transferring to the skillet and oven.
Can I make it spicy?
Yes! Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick.
Storage Tips
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Refrigerator – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
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Freezer – Not recommended, as the beans lose texture and become watery when thawed.
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Meal Prep – Blanch beans ahead and refrigerate. Assemble with cheese and bake fresh for best flavor.
Variations
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Bacon Cheesy Green Beans – Sprinkle in crispy bacon bits before baking.
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Cheesy Ranch Green Beans – Toss beans in a tablespoon of ranch seasoning for added flavor.
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Creamy Cheesy Green Beans – Stir in ¼ cup cream or sour cream before topping with cheese.
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Low-Carb Option – Skip the cream and keep it simple with garlic, butter, and cheese.
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Herb-Loaded – Add fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary for a fragrant twist.
Cheesy Garlic Green Beans
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning optional
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Prepare beans: Wash and trim the ends of the green beans. Pat dry.
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Season: Place green beans on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Toss to coat evenly.
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Bake: Spread beans into a single layer and bake for 15 minutes.
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Add cheese: Remove from oven and sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the beans. Return to oven for 5 more minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Serve: Transfer to a serving platter and enjoy hot.
