This Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole is a fun twist on the classic dish! It’s loaded with fresh green beans, cheesy goodness, and of course, those famous cheddar biscuits bits that add a tasty crunch.
I can’t help but smile when I make this! It’s such an easy way to impress family at dinner. Plus, it’s got the flavor of cheddar biscuits, making it a hit every time. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are my go-to for this dish because they add a nice crunch. If you’re short on time, frozen green beans are a handy substitute. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well!
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This gives the casserole its creamy base. If you want to make it healthier, you can use a low-fat version or even cream of chicken soup for a different flavor.
Sour Cream: It adds richness and tang! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, plain coconut yogurt works well, too. Just check for unsweetened varieties to keep the flavors on point.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese is perfect for that bold flavor. If you’re a cheese lover like me, try mixing in pepper jack for a little kick. Or go for a mild cheddar if you prefer less sharpness.
Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix: The star of the show! You can buy the mix or make your own by combining all-purpose flour, baking powder, garlic powder, and shredded cheddar cheese. It’s totally worth it!
French Fried Onions: They add a fantastic crunch. If you want to skip these, try homemade crispy onions made from thinly sliced onions dipped in batter and fried until golden. It’s a fun way to elevate the dish!
How Do You Get the Perfect Creamy Casserole Texture?
Achieving that creamy texture in your casserole is all about mixing the right ingredients well. Here’s a step-by-step approach:
- Mix Coherently: When combining the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and spices, mix until it’s completely smooth. This helps to ensure an even flavor throughout.
- Coat Evenly: When folding in the green beans, be gentle to avoid breaking them apart. You want them well-coated, but not mushy.
- Layer It Right: After pouring the mixture into your baking dish, spread it out evenly. This ensures consistent cooking and browning.
- Check the Bake Time: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on it, and remove it when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. A little patience can make all the difference!
Following these tips will help you create a casserole that’s creamy, cheesy, and absolutely delicious. Enjoy every bite!
Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-2 inch pieces (can substitute with frozen green beans, thawed)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping:
- 1 1/3 cups Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix (like Red Lobster’s mix) or homemade cheddar biscuit topping (crumbled)
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 1/3 cups French fried onions (store-bought crispy onions), divided
Time Estimate:
This delightful Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to bake. Altogether, you’re looking at about 45 minutes before it’s ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). You’ll also want to lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prepare for your casserole.
2. Prepare the Green Beans:
If you’re using fresh green beans, blanch them in boiling water for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still crisp. Drain them well and set aside.
3. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese (save a little for the topping), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it is smooth and well blended.
4. Combine with Green Beans:
Carefully fold in the blanched green beans and half of the French fried onions into the creamy mixture. Mix gently until all the green beans are coated evenly.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the green bean mixture into your prepared baking dish. Make sure to spread it out evenly so it cooks nicely.
6. Prepare the Biscuit Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the biscuit mix crumbs with melted butter. Stir well until the crumbs are fully moistened.
7. Add Toppings:
Evenly sprinkle the buttered biscuit mixture over the casserole. Then, top it off with the reserved shredded cheddar cheese and the remaining French fried onions.
8. Bake it Up:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake it uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. You want it bubbly and the topping to be golden brown and crispy.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This creamy, cheesy Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole is perfect for family dinners and is sure to impress!
Enjoy every bite of this delicious twist on a classic! Perfect for any gathering or holiday celebration!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans for This Recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen green beans! Just make sure they’re fully thawed and drained before mixing them into the casserole to avoid excess moisture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance! Simply assemble it, cover it, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can pop it in the microwave or place it back in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Can I Substitute the Cream of Mushroom Soup?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use a low-fat version or even substitute with cream of chicken soup for a different flavor profile!
