Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole is a fresh twist on a classic favorite, packed with tender green beans, creamy cheese sauce, and topped with crunchy, buttery cheddar bay biscuit crumbs. It’s got that perfect mix of gooey, cheesy, and crispy that makes every bite a little celebration of flavors and textures.
I love making this casserole when I want something comforting but a bit different from the usual. The cheddar bay biscuit crumb topping really steals the show for me—it adds a buttery crunch that keeps you reaching for more. I sometimes sneak a few extra crumbs on top before baking because, well, who can resist that cheesy, crispy finish?
This dish is my go-to for family dinners and holiday gatherings because it’s simple to prepare but always impresses. I like serving it alongside a roast or grilled chicken for a cozy, satisfying meal that everyone ends up asking for again. Plus, green beans make it feel just a little bit nutritious, so I don’t feel too guilty about going back for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans give the best texture and flavor, but frozen works fine too. Just thaw and drain well to avoid a watery casserole.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds nice tanginess and richness. If you want a milder taste, try mild cheddar or Monterey Jack.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess and earthiness. For a homemade touch, try making your own easy cream sauce with butter, flour, milk, and mushrooms.
Mayonnaise or Sour Cream: Both add creaminess and slight tang. Mayonnaise keeps it rich, while sour cream makes it a bit lighter. Choose based on your taste preference.
French Fried Onions: The crispy topping is a must! If unavailable, crushed crispy fried shallots or even store-bought fried garlic chips can be good substitutes.
Cheddar Bay Biscuit Crumbs or Cracker Topping: This topping gives buttery crunch and a cheesy kick. If you don’t have biscuit mix, crushed buttery crackers or panko with melted butter and a bit of garlic powder work well too.
How Do I Get the Best Crunchy Topping Without It Getting Soggy?
The topping really makes this dish special, so you want to keep it crisp. Here’s how I do it:
- Mix crumbs well with melted butter so they brown evenly and crisp up nicely during baking.
- Don’t add topping until the casserole is fully assembled and ready to bake.
- Bake uncovered to let moisture escape, preventing sogginess.
- For extra crunch, add some crushed French fried onions on top after baking instead of before.
These small steps help the topping stay golden and crispy, making each bite satisfyingly crunchy!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch casserole dish – I use this size because it fits everything evenly and bakes uniformly.
- Large mixing bowl – perfect for combining all the creamy ingredients and ensuring everything is well mixed.
- Small bowl for crumbs – handy for mixing the cracker or biscuit crumbs with melted butter to create a crispy topping.
- Medium pot (optional) – if you choose to make your own mushroom sauce instead of using soup, this will come in handy.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy so every flavor is just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap sharp cheddar for mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder, creamier profile.
- Add cooked bacon bits or diced ham for extra protein and smoky flavor.
- Sauté some mushrooms, onions, or garlic to stir into the creamy mixture for added texture and flavor.
- Try a pinch of hot sauce or cayenne pepper in the mix if you like a little spice.
Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 lbs fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces (or 4 cups frozen green beans, thawed)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup mayonnaise or sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 ⅓ cups French fried onions, divided
For the Topping:
- 1 cup cheddar bay biscuit mix crumbs or crushed buttery crackers
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
Plan for about 15 minutes of prep time, including trimming and blanching green beans, and about 30 minutes baking time. Overall, this dish comes together quickly and is perfect when you want a tasty side without a long wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Green Beans:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. If you’re using fresh green beans, bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch them for 3-4 minutes until they’re crisp-tender. Drain and immediately put them in ice water to keep their bright green color. Drain well before using. If using frozen beans, simply thaw and drain.
2. Mix the Creamy Base:
In a large bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise or sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy.
3. Add Green Beans, Cheese, and Onions:
Fold in your green beans, shredded cheddar cheese, and two-thirds of the French fried onions. Mix gently until everything is covered in the creamy sauce.
4. Assemble and Add the Topping:
Spread the green bean mixture evenly into your casserole dish. In a small bowl, combine the cheddar bay biscuit crumbs or crushed crackers with the melted butter. Sprinkle this buttery crumb mixture evenly on top, then add the remaining French fried onions over the crumbs for extra crunch.
5. Bake and Serve:
Bake the casserole uncovered for 25-30 minutes. You want to see it bubbly around the edges and a golden, crispy topping. Once done, let it cool a few minutes before serving—this helps the casserole set and makes serving easier!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain frozen green beans well to avoid extra moisture that can make the casserole soggy. No need to blanch if using thawed beans.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Mushroom Soup?
You can make a simple homemade creamy sauce by sautéing mushrooms with butter, then adding flour and milk to create a thick base. This fresh option adds great flavor without canned soup.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through to keep the topping as crunchy as possible.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add the crumb topping right before popping it in the oven for the best texture.