This Classic Green Beans Au Gratin Recipe is a must-have for holiday meals. Featuring fresh green beans coated in a rich, creamy cheese sauce and topped with buttery breadcrumbs, this dish is a flavorful and elegant alternative to traditional green bean casseroles. this recipe is guaranteed to become a new family favorite.
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Additional Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6
Key Ingredients for Green Beans Au Gratin
This recipe uses fresh ingredients and flavorful cheeses to create a decadent yet balanced side dish:
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: To grease the casserole dish.
- 1¼ pounds fresh green beans: The star of the dish; trimmed and cut in half.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: For seasoning the beans.
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Adds tangy depth to the creamy sauce.
- 1½ cups heavy cream: Creates a rich and velvety base for the gratin.
- 2 ounces Comté cheese, grated: Offers a nutty, savory flavor.
- 2 tablespoons Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, freshly grated: Adds sharp, salty notes.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Used to coat the breadcrumbs.
- ⅓ cup dry bread crumbs: Provides a crispy topping.
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper: For a subtle hint of heat.
Step-by-Step Directions for Green Beans Au Gratin
This easy green bean casserole recipe comes together in 10 simple steps:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Generously grease a casserole dish with 1 tablespoon of butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Boil the Water
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. The salted water helps season the green beans during cooking.
Step 3: Prepare the Green Beans
Trim the ends of the green beans, and cut them in half for uniformity.
Step 4: Cook the Green Beans
Add the green beans to the boiling water. Stir and cook for 5-6 minutes, testing often to ensure they are just tender. Avoid overcooking.
Step 5: Stop the Cooking Process
Using a strainer, transfer the green beans to a bowl of ice water immediately after boiling. This halts the cooking process and preserves their vibrant green color.
Step 6: Transfer to Casserole Dish
Drain the cooled green beans and transfer them to the prepared casserole dish. It’s fine if they’re slightly wet.
Step 7: Add Seasoning and Cheese Sauce
Season the beans with kosher salt, black pepper, and Dijon mustard. Toss to coat evenly. Pour the heavy cream over the beans, then sprinkle the Comté cheese and Parmigiano-Reggiano evenly on top.
Step 8: Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and dry bread crumbs. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Spoon and spread the breadcrumb mixture over the casserole. Dust the top with a pinch of cayenne pepper for added flavor.
Step 9: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the center of the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cheese sauce is bubbling.
Step 10: Let Cool and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Chef’s Notes and Variations
- Use Salted Water: Salting the water when blanching the green beans enhances their flavor.
- Cheese Substitutes: Replace Comté with Gruyere or sharp white Cheddar for a unique twist.
- Crème Fraîche Option: Swap heavy cream with crème fraîche for a tangier flavor.
- Authenticity Matters: Always use authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese for the best results. Look for the name stamped on the rind.
Tips for the Best Green Beans Au Gratin
- Don’t overcook the beans: Parboil them just until tender to maintain their texture.
- Use high-quality cheese: Comté and Parmigiano-Reggiano offer unmatched flavor, but Gruyere or sharp white Cheddar can be great substitutes.
- Customize the seasoning: Adjust the Dijon mustard or cayenne pepper to suit your taste preferences.
- Make it ahead: Prep the dish up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.
What to Serve with Green Beans Au Gratin
This creamy, cheesy casserole pairs beautifully with:
- Roast turkey or chicken
- Glazed ham
- Prime rib or beef tenderloin
- Buttery mashed potatoes or cranberry sauce for a complete holiday meal
FAQs
Can I use frozen or canned green beans?
Yes! While fresh green beans offer the best texture, you can use frozen beans (thawed and drained) or canned beans (rinsed and drained).
What’s a good substitute for Comté cheese?
Gruyere, sharp white Cheddar, or Emmental cheese are excellent alternatives.
How do I store leftovers?
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of traditional breadcrumbs.
Can I add other ingredients?
Absolutely! Sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, or caramelized onions would make delicious additions to the casserole.
Conclusion
This Classic Green Beans Au Gratin Recipe is the perfect addition to any holiday table. With tender green beans, a creamy cheese sauce, and a golden breadcrumb topping, it’s a side dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Easy to prepare and customizable to your taste, this dish will quickly become a family tradition. Try it today and elevate your holiday menu!