Creamed Green Beans

If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious side dish that will elevate any meal, creamed green beans are the perfect choice. This comforting recipe combines the crispness of fresh green beans with a rich and creamy sauce, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a holiday feast, creamed green beans are sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to love creamed green beans! First, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen.

The combination of tender green beans and a creamy, savory sauce is irresistible, and it’s a great way to get picky eaters to enjoy their vegetables.

Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with almost any main course, from roasted chicken to grilled steak.

What Are Creamed Green Beans Made Of?

Creamed green beans are made with a handful of basic ingredients that come together to create a delicious dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Fresh Green Beans: The star of the show, these should be trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps to create the creamy sauce.
• Flour: Used to thicken the sauce.
• Milk or Heavy Cream: Gives the dish its signature creaminess.
• Onion or Garlic (optional): Adds a subtle depth of flavor to the sauce.
• Salt and Pepper: Season the dish to perfection.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional): For an extra layer of flavor and a touch of elegance.

Shop My Favorite Items for This Recipe

To make the perfect creamed green beans, having the right kitchen tools can make all the difference. Here are a few of my favorite items that I personally use and love, all available on Amazon:

1. All-Clad Stainless Steel Skillet
   I love this skillet because it heats evenly and is perfect for making the creamy sauce for the green beans. The stainless steel construction is durable and easy to clean, making it a kitchen essential. Available on Amazon.
2. OXO Good Grips Vegetable Peeler
   This vegetable peeler is a must-have for quickly trimming green beans or peeling other veggies. The ergonomic design makes it comfortable to use, and the sharp blade ensures smooth, effortless peeling. Available on Amazon.
3. Pyrex Glass Measuring Cup Set
   Accurate measurements are key to perfecting the cream sauce, and these glass measuring cups are both durable and easy to read. Plus, they’re microwave-safe, which is great for melting butter or warming milk. Available on Amazon.
4. KitchenAid Gourmet Box Grater
   If you like to add a touch of Parmesan to your creamed green beans, this box grater is a fantastic tool. It has multiple grating surfaces and a comfortable handle, making it easy to grate cheese directly into the dish. Available on Amazon.

How to Make Creamed Green Beans

Making creamed green beans is straightforward and quick. Here’s how you can whip up this tasty dish:

1. Prepare the Green Beans: Start by washing and trimming the green beans. If they’re particularly long, you may want to cut them in half.
2. Blanch the Green Beans: Boil the green beans in salted water for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still crisp. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Cream Sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and stir to make a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until the flour is lightly browned. Gradually whisk in the milk or cream, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and, if using, grated Parmesan cheese.
4. Combine and Cook: Add the blanched green beans to the skillet and toss them in the sauce until they are well-coated. Let them cook for a few more minutes until everything is heated through and the sauce clings to the beans.
5. Serve: Transfer the creamed green beans to a serving dish, and enjoy!

How to Serve?

Creamed green beans are a versatile side dish that pairs well with many main courses. Serve them alongside roasted meats like turkey, chicken, or beef.

They’re also a great match for fish dishes or even a vegetarian meal. For a holiday spread, creamed green beans fit right in with stuffing, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce.

FAQ

1. Can I use canned or frozen green beans?
Yes, you can! While fresh green beans offer the best texture and flavor, canned or frozen green beans are a convenient alternative. Just be sure to drain canned beans well, and thaw frozen beans before using them.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Leftover creamed green beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently on the stove or in the microwave.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare this dish up to a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator and reheat them before serving.

4. Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
Certainly! Mushrooms, peas, or even diced carrots can be great additions to creamed green beans.

5. Is there a dairy-free version of creamed green beans?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine and use a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk to make a dairy-free version.

Creamed green beans are a delicious, easy-to-make side dish that will become a staple in your recipe collection. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a comforting and flavorful dish that everyone will love!

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Creamed Green Beans Recipe

Creamed green beans are a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal. Fresh green beans are coated in a rich, creamy sauce and lightly seasoned to perfection. This dish is easy to make and is sure to become a favorite on your dinner table.

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk or heavy cream
• 1 small onion finely chopped (optional)
• 1 clove garlic minced (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese optional

Instructions

• Prepare the Green Beans:
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and blanch for 3-4 minutes until tender but still crisp. Drain and set aside.
• Make the Cream Sauce:
• In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, if using, and sauté until soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the flour to form a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
• Add Milk or Cream:
• Gradually whisk in the milk or heavy cream, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Combine and Cook:
• Add the blanched green beans to the skillet, tossing them in the sauce until well-coated. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the beans are heated through and the sauce clings to them.
• Serve:
• Transfer the creamed green beans to a serving dish, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve hot.