Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole brings a fun twist to a classic side dish. Imagine tender green beans tossed in a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s just bursting with sharp cheddar flavor. The crackly, golden topping adds a delightful crunch that makes every bite a little celebration.
I love making this casserole when I want something familiar but with a bit more personality. The cheddar cheese gives it that cozy, rich vibe, and the crispy topping reminds me of the awesome flavor from those famous Cheddar Bay Biscuits. It’s become one of those dishes that gets requested again and again by family and friends.
Serving this casserole warm right out of the oven, I like to pair it with a simple roast or grilled chicken. It’s perfect for holidays or any day when you want a comforting side that feels special but isn’t fussy at all. Honestly, the cheesy goodness mixed with green beans makes it a crowd-pleaser every time, and I think you’re going to love it just as much as I do.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions for Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are best for crunch and color. If you’re short on time, frozen ones work well too—just thaw and drain them thoroughly.
Bacon: Adds a smoky crunch. For a vegetarian option, skip bacon or use smoked paprika for that flavor hint.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: This gives the casserole its bold cheesy flavor. You can swap for Colby Jack or Monterey Jack if you want a milder taste.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: The creamy base. Want it lighter? Use cream of celery or a homemade mushroom sauce instead.
Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix: This is the secret to that iconic topping. If unavailable, try a buttery biscuit or biscuit-style cracker crumbs seasoned with garlic powder and parmesan.
Crispy Fried Onions: They add crunch and a little sweetness on top. You can substitute with toasted breadcrumbs mixed with some sautéed onions if needed.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crunchy Cheddar Bay Topping?
That topping makes this casserole special, so here’s how to nail it:
- Mix the cheddar bay biscuit mix with melted butter until it looks crumbly but moist—this helps it brown nicely.
- Sprinkle this crumbly mix evenly over the casserole layer.
- Top with crispy fried onions just before baking for that last crispy layer.
- Bake uncovered so moisture escapes and the topping crisps up beautifully.
Keep an eye towards the last 5 minutes so it doesn’t burn. The right crunch adds such a great texture contrast to the creamy beans inside!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch casserole dish – I like this size because it holds everything well and bakes evenly.
- Large mixing bowl – perfect for combining the creamy mixture ingredients without mess.
- Small bowl – for mixing the biscuit topping crumbly mixture.
- Cooking pot – needed if you cook fresh green beans or bacon from scratch.
- Frying pan – for cooking and crumbling bacon until crispy.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep everything accurate and easy to follow.
- Silicone spatula – great for folding ingredients and spreading everything smoothly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked, diced ham or turkey instead of bacon for a different protein twist.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms or roasted bell peppers for more flavor and color.
- Swap cheddar for pepper Jack or Monterey Jack for a milder or spicy flair.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper in the topping for a smoky or spicy kick.
Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces (or 2 (12 oz) bags frozen green beans, thawed)
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Topping:
- 1 cup cheddar bay biscuit mix (such as Betty Crocker Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 1/2 cups crispy fried onions (French’s fried onions or similar)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cozy casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and then bakes for 30-35 minutes. So, in under an hour, you’ll have a warm, cheesy dish perfect for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Green Beans:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish. If using fresh green beans, blanch them by boiling in salted water for 3-4 minutes until just tender. Then drain well. If using frozen green beans, make sure they are thawed and drained.
2. Mix the Casserole Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, chopped green onions, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth. Gently fold in the green beans and crumbled bacon, making sure everything is evenly mixed.
3. Assemble and Bake:
Spread the green bean mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish. In a small bowl, mix the cheddar bay biscuit mix with the melted butter until crumbly and moist. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the green bean layer. Finally, top with crispy fried onions.
4. Bake and Serve:
Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the topping is golden brown and crispy. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before mixing into the casserole to avoid extra moisture that can make the dish watery.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to cook if it’s chilled.
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix?
Try substituting with a buttery biscuit mix or mix seasoned breadcrumbs with garlic powder and parmesan cheese for a similar flavor and texture.