These Cheesy Garlic Green Beans are a simple yet decadent side dish that transforms humble green beans into a mouthwatering masterpiece. With the perfect balance of garlic, buttery richness, and gooey melted cheese, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or bringing it to a holiday feast, these green beans are sure to steal the spotlight. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Green Beans:
- 1 lb fresh green beans , trimmed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic , minced
- Salt and black pepper , to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
For the Cheesy Topping:
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite melty cheese like Parmesan, mozzarella, or Gruyère)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for extra nuttiness and crispiness)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crispy topping)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley , for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) . Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Cook the Green Beans
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and blanch them for 3–4 minutes , until they are bright green and slightly tender.
- Drain the green beans and immediately plunge them into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again and pat them dry with paper towels.
Step 3: Sauté with Garlic
- Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds–1 minute , until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the blanched green beans to the skillet, tossing them in the garlicky butter mixture. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2–3 minutes , stirring occasionally, to coat the beans evenly.