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Green Bean Gratin

Green Bean Gratin layers tender green beans in a bacon-enriched sauce with sharp Cheddar and a golden bread crumb crust. It’s rich, savory, and a little smoky, delivering crisp topping over a velvety interior—perfect for holiday tables or as a standout side with roasted meats.

  • Prep10 mins
  • Cook45 mins
  • Serves6
  • DifficultyEasy
Green Bean Gratin
  1. 1

    Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Grease a casserole dish.

  2. 2

    Place bacon in a large skillet and cook over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until evenly browned, about 10 minutes.

  3. 3

    Meanwhile, bring water to a simmer. Add green beans and cook until tender, 5 to 10 minutes. Drain the beans, reserving the cooking liquid. Drain the bacon slices on paper towels, keeping the grease in the skillet. Crumble the bacon.

  4. 4

    Heat 3 tablespoons of the reserved grease. Stir in flour until blended and lightly browned. Add the reserved cooking liquid and cream, whisking constantly until smooth and thick, about 5 minutes. Fold in the beans and Cheddar cheese. Pour into the prepared baking dish. Top with bread crumbs.

  5. 5

    Bake in the preheated oven, uncovered, until hot and bubbling, 30 to 35 minutes. Sprinkle the bacon on top before serving.