/05

Cheesy Green Bean Casserole

Source: Perfect Entertaining

If you are looking for a change from that holiday staple of canned green beans, canned soup and thousand year old fried onions, but still want to serve green beans, try this easy casserole. It is still quick and easy to prepare, but has a comfy homemade taste that is leagues better than the processed taste of the traditional casserole. You can assemble the dish well in advance - even a day or two ahead of time if you like - and just add the bread crumb mixture before reheating. Just don't forget the breadcrumbs like I did last year at Thanksgiving.

16 ounces frozen green beans
1/4 cup onion
4 tablespoons butter, divided
2 garlic cloves
2 tablespoons flour
1 teaspoon crumbled Italian spices
Salt and pepper to taste
Dash cayenne pepper
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup sour cream
4 ounces shredded Cheddar cheese
3 tablespoons soft bread crumbs

Cook the green beans according to the package directions in the microwave or on the stove, drain well, and set aside. Sauté the onion and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large saucepan for 5 minutes over medium high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 2 minutes more. Add the flour and spices until smooth. Slowly add the milk, stirring constantly, and reduce the heat to medium. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens. Mix in the sour cream and half of the cheese and mix until smooth, making sure the mixture does not boil. Add the green beans and mix well. Spoon the mixture into a broiler proof serving dish. In a small bowl mix together the remaining cheese, bread crumbs, and remaining butter. Sprinkle over the green beans and broil until the cheese melts and the bread crumbs brown. Serve piping hot.

Makes 6 servings.

Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes