If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful side dish that pairs well with any meal, these Cheesy Garlic Green Beans are perfect! Fresh green beans are cooked until tender, then tossed in butter and garlic, and finished with a generous helping of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. This dish is the ultimate combination of cheesy goodness and garlicky flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser.
In this post, I’ll guide you through how to make this tasty dish, along with some helpful tips and variations. Let’s get started!
Ingredients for Cheesy Garlic Green Beans
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions for Making Cheesy Garlic Green Beans
Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans
- Trim the Green Beans: Start by trimming the ends of the green beans. You can leave them whole or cut them into smaller pieces if desired.
- Blanch the Green Beans: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the green beans. Cook for 3-5 minutes until they are tender but still crisp. Drain and immediately transfer the green beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This step helps the beans retain their bright green color and crisp texture.
- Drain the Beans: After about 2 minutes in the ice water, drain the green beans and set them aside.
Step 2: Cook the Garlic
- Melt the Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Combine the Green Beans with Garlic and Cheese
- Add the Green Beans: Add the blanched green beans to the skillet and toss them with the garlic and butter mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the beans are heated through.
- Season: Season the green beans with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add Parmesan: Sprinkle ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the green beans and stir to coat evenly.
Step 4: Add Mozzarella and Melt
- Add Mozzarella: Sprinkle ¼ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the green beans in the skillet.
- Melt the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet for 1-2 minutes, or until the mozzarella has melted and is gooey and delicious.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve Warm: Once the cheese has melted, transfer the cheesy garlic green beans to a serving dish. Enjoy them as a side with your favorite main course!
Cooking Notes
- Cooking Time: Be careful not to overcook the green beans during blanching. You want them to remain slightly crisp, as they will cook further when tossed with the garlic and cheese.
- Cheese Substitutes: If you don’t have mozzarella, you can substitute with cheddar, Gouda, or any other meltable cheese you like.
- Serving Tip: This dish is best served immediately while the cheese is still hot and melty.
Variations of Cheesy Garlic Green Beans
Spicy Cheesy Garlic Green Beans
If you like a little heat, add ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. This will give the green beans a spicy kick that pairs well with the cheesy flavor.
Lemon Garlic Green Beans
For a fresher, zesty version, add the juice of half a lemon to the green beans just before adding the cheese. The lemon brightens up the dish and balances the richness of the cheese.
Bacon Cheesy Green Beans
For an extra indulgent twist, toss in some crispy bacon bits along with the green beans. The salty, smoky bacon complements the cheesy garlic flavors beautifully.
Keto-Friendly Version
This recipe is already low-carb, but for a keto-friendly twist, you can add more cheese or even top the green beans with pork rind crumbs for added crunch without the carbs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen green beans for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans. Just be sure to thaw them first and pat them dry before cooking. You can skip the blanching step since frozen green beans are partially cooked already.
2. How do I store leftover cheesy garlic green beans?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat or use a microwave until heated through.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the green beans ahead by blanching them and storing them in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the garlic, reheat the beans, and add the cheese.
4. What can I serve with cheesy garlic green beans?
These green beans are versatile and pair well with a variety of main dishes like roasted chicken, grilled steak, baked salmon, or even a hearty pasta dish.
5. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! You can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, or even blue cheese for a different flavor profile. Just make sure the cheese you choose melts well.
Cheesy Garlic Green Beans are a simple yet flavorful side dish that’s sure to impress. With tender green beans, garlicky butter, and a generous layer of melted cheese, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the fun variations, this cheesy side will quickly become a family favorite.
Enjoy this dish alongside your favorite protein, and don’t forget to serve it while the cheese is hot and melty!
