Cheesy Garlic Green Beans are a quick and delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with almost any main course. The combination of tender green beans, melted cheese, and aromatic garlic makes this dish both comforting and full of flavor. Whether you’re making a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, these cheesy garlic green beans will add a tasty twist to your meal. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, requiring only a few ingredients for maximum flavor.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Tips for Perfect Cheesy Garlic Green Beans
- Recipe Variations
- FAQs
- Serving Suggestions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Prepare the Green Beans: Place the trimmed green beans on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil and add the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together to coat the green beans evenly.
- Roast the Green Beans: Spread the green beans out in an even layer on the baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the green beans are tender-crisp and starting to brown.
- Add the Cheese: Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the green beans.
- Bake Until Cheesy: Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, and serve the cheesy garlic green beans warm.
Tips for Perfect Cheesy Garlic Green Beans
- Don’t Overcook: Make sure to roast the green beans until they are tender-crisp to maintain their texture and avoid mushiness.
- Even Coating: Toss the green beans well with the olive oil and garlic to ensure they are evenly coated, which will help them roast evenly.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
Recipe Variations
- Add Bacon: Sprinkle cooked and crumbled bacon over the green beans before adding the cheese for an extra savory kick.
- Spicy Green Beans: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when seasoning the green beans for a bit of heat.
- Cheese Swap: Substitute mozzarella with sharp cheddar or Gruyere for a different cheesy flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can use frozen green beans, but make sure to thaw and pat them dry before roasting to avoid excess moisture.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the green beans and garlic mixture ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Roast and add the cheese just before serving for best results.
Serving Suggestions
- With Roasted Chicken: Serve these cheesy garlic green beans alongside roasted or grilled chicken for a balanced meal.
- With Steak: Pair with a juicy steak for a steakhouse-inspired dinner at home.
- With Pasta: Serve as a side dish with your favorite pasta dishes to add some greens to the meal.
Cheesy Garlic Green Beans are an easy and flavorful side dish that can elevate any meal. With tender green beans, savory garlic, and gooey melted cheese, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a family favorite. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a side that’s as simple to prepare as it is delicious!