Description
Cheesy Green Bean Potato Bake
Ingredients
2 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced
1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
In a pot of boiling salted water, blanch the green beans for 4-5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and thyme. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared dish. Season with salt and pepper. Add a layer of green beans, then half of the cheddar cheese.
Repeat the layers: potatoes, green beans, and remaining cheddar. Pour the cream sauce evenly over the top.
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: ~350 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect bake every time. First, ensure your potatoes are sliced uniformly, about 1/8-inch thick, for even cooking. Use a mandoline for precision. When blanching the green beans, prepare an ice bath. After draining the beans, immediately plunge them into the ice water to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant color and crisp-tender texture. For the sauce, keep the heat at a gentle simmer; boiling may cause the cream to separate. When layering, press each layer down gently to create a compact, cohesive dish. The final bake without foil is crucial for achieving that golden, crispy cheese topping.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and comforting bake is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a show-stopping side dish for a holiday ham or roasted turkey. For a cozy family dinner, pair it with simple roasted chicken or pan-seared pork chops. To balance its richness, accompany it with a light, acidic salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette. It also makes a satisfying vegetarian main course when served with a crusty baguette to soak up every bit of the creamy sauce.
How-to Summary
In summary, create this dish by thinly slicing potatoes and blanching green beans. Make a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce on the stovetop. In a baking dish, create alternating layers of potatoes, green beans, and cheddar cheese, seasoning as you go. Pour the sauce over the top, cover with foil, and bake. Finish by removing the foil to brown the cheese to perfection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the entire bake, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
Can I use frozen green beans?
You can, but thaw and pat them dry thoroughly first. There’s no need to blanch frozen beans, as they are already par-cooked.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
For a slightly lighter version, half-and-half will work, though the sauce will be less rich. Whole milk is not recommended as it may curdle or be too thin.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat portions in the oven at 350°F or in a skillet on the stovetop to maintain texture. Microwave reheating can make it soggy.
Can I add protein to make it a main dish?
Absolutely. Diced cooked ham, shredded chicken, or browned ground sausage are excellent additions. Layer the protein with the green beans.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Blanch: Not blanching the green beans results in a tough, undercooked texture.
- Uneven Potato Slices: Thick slices won’t cook through, while paper-thin slices may turn to mush. Aim for consistent thickness.
- Overcooking the Sauce: Letting the cream sauce boil vigorously can cause it to break or become greasy.
- Forgetting to Season Each Layer: Seasoning only the top will leave the interior layers bland.
- Not Letting it Rest: Allow the bake to sit for 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This lets the sauce set for cleaner slices.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Green Bean Potato Bake is the ultimate comfort food, masterfully combining creamy potatoes, crisp-tender beans, and a rich, golden cheese crust. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can avoid common pitfalls and create a reliably delicious dish that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Its make-ahead flexibility and crowd-pleasing flavor ensure it will become a treasured recipe in your collection. Enjoy the delicious, cheesy goodness!