A simple and flavorful side dish that’s sure to impress your family or guests!
These Cheesy Garlic Green Beans are the perfect side dish to complement any meal. Roasted to perfection with garlic and olive oil, then topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, they’re full of flavor and texture. The subtle crispness of the green beans paired with the creamy, cheesy topping makes this dish irresistible. Whether you’re serving them with a main course or just looking for a healthy yet indulgent snack, these cheesy green beans are a hit every time.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning (optional, for extra flavor)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure the green beans roast perfectly, becoming tender on the inside and slightly crisp on the outside.
Step 2: Prepare the Green Beans
- Trim the green beans by cutting off the tough ends. You can do this by simply snapping off the ends with your fingers or using a sharp knife.
- Spread the prepared green beans out evenly on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the green beans and sprinkle with minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss the beans to make sure they are well-coated in the olive oil and seasoning, ensuring a uniform flavor.
Step 3: Bake the Green Beans
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the green beans are tender and starting to crisp up around the edges.
- Tip: Check at the 10-minute mark, and give them a quick stir to make sure they cook evenly.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
- Once the green beans are roasted, remove them from the oven.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the green beans.
- If you like extra flavor, you can also sprinkle Italian seasoning over the top for a burst of herby goodness.
- Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and starts to turn a light golden brown.
Pro Tip: If you want your cheese to be slightly browned and bubbly, consider using the broil function in your oven for the last 1-2 minutes, but keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
Step 5: Serve
Once the cheese is melted and golden, remove the green beans from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately while the cheese is gooey and delicious!
Quick Facts:
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Calories: Approx. 150 per serving
- Servings: 4
Variations and Customizations:
- Add Bacon: For an extra savory touch, crisp up some bacon and sprinkle it over the green beans along with the cheese before baking.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a little heat.
- Lemon Zest: After baking, add a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest for a burst of citrusy freshness that balances the richness of the cheese.
- Vegetarian: Keep the dish entirely vegetarian by sticking with the garlic, olive oil, and cheese. You can also add roasted tomatoes or mushrooms for more variety.
Tips for Success:
- Fresh vs. Frozen: Fresh green beans work best for this recipe as they will crisp up better in the oven, but you can use frozen green beans if necessary. Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before roasting.
- Even Roasting: Make sure the green beans are spread in a single layer on the baking sheet. This will help them roast evenly and get that perfect crispness.
- Cheese Variations: You can switch up the cheeses depending on your preference. Cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan can add different flavor profiles to the dish.
These Cheesy Garlic Green Beans are a simple, yet flavorful side dish that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re pairing them with a hearty roast, a simple weeknight dinner, or a holiday feast, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
