Name: Creamy Green Beans Parmesan Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb Fresh Green Beans; 1 tbsp butter; ¼ cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp parmesan cheese; ground nutmeg; salt; ground black pepper; 2 tbsp parmesan cheese

Indulge in a delightful side dish that combines the crispness of fresh green beans with the rich creaminess of heavy cream and parmesan cheese. This recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any meal.

Photos of Creamy Green Beans Parmesan Recipe

Most of these ingredients are pantry staples, but heavy cream and ground nutmeg might not be in everyone's kitchen. When heading to the supermarket, ensure you pick up fresh green beans and good-quality parmesan cheese to elevate the flavors of this dish.

Ingredients For Creamy Green Beans Parmesan Recipe

green beans: Fresh and crisp, these are the star of the dish, providing a vibrant color and satisfying crunch.

butter: Adds a rich, savory flavor and helps create a creamy sauce.

heavy cream: The base of the creamy sauce, adding a luscious texture to the green beans.

parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, salty flavor that complements the creaminess and adds a bit of umami.

ground nutmeg: A warm spice that enhances the cream sauce with a subtle depth of flavor.

salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients.

ground black pepper: Adds a mild heat and enhances the overall taste.

One reader, Helena Grimes says:

This creamy green beans parmesan recipe is a delightful side dish! The beans are perfectly tender, and the creamy parmesan sauce adds a rich, savory flavor. It's simple to make yet tastes gourmet. A new favorite in our household!

Helena Grimes

Techniques Required for Making Creamy Green Beans Parmesan

How to blanch green beans: Bring a large pot of lightly-salted water to a boil, then drop in the green beans and return to a boil. Cook uncovered for about 6 minutes until the beans are bright green and barely tender. Drain and set aside.

How to make a cream sauce: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat, then whisk in the cream, 2 tablespoons of parmesan cheese, and nutmeg into the melted butter. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

How to season: Gently stir the beans into the mixture to coat, then season with salt and pepper. Return to a simmer, transfer to a serving dish, and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of parmesan cheese.

How To Make Creamy Green Beans Parmesan

This green beans parmesan recipe takes a classic ingredient and turns it into a creamy, savory side dish that’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbfresh green beans,trimmed, snapped
1tbspbutter
¼cupheavy cream
2tbspparmesan cheese,grated
ground nutmeg
salt,to taste
ground black pepper,to taste
2tbspparmesan cheese,grated

Instructions

Bring a large pot of lightly-salted water to a boil, then drop in the green beans and return to a boil.
Cook uncovered for about 6 minutes until the beans are bright green and barely tender. Drain and set aside.
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat, then whisk in the cream, 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese, and nutmeg into the melted butter. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Gently stir the beans into the mixture to coat, then season with salt and pepper. Return to a simmer, transfer to a serving dish, and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese.
Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 149.42kcal
Fat: 11.05g
Saturated Fat: 6.84g
Trans Fat: 0.12g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.05g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.50g
Carbohydrates: 8.89g
Fiber: 3.17g
Sugar: 4.19g
Protein: 5.78g
Cholesterol: 34.33mg
Sodium: 329.15mg
Calcium: 164.51mg
Potassium: 265.49mg
Iron: 1.29mg
Vitamin A: 144.46µg
Vitamin C: 13.92mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Creamy Green Beans Parmesan

When melting butter in the skillet, make sure to do so over medium-low heat to prevent it from browning too quickly. This ensures a smooth base for the cream and parmesan cheese mixture, resulting in a perfectly creamy sauce for your green beans.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Creamy Green Beans Parmesan

Pre-cook the beans: Blanch the green beans in advance and store them in the fridge. This way, you can skip the boiling step when you're ready to cook.

Use pre-grated cheese: Save time by using pre-grated parmesan cheese instead of grating it yourself.

Measure ingredients beforehand: Have your butter, heavy cream, and spices measured and ready to go before you start cooking.

One-pot method: Cook the green beans directly in the skillet with the cream mixture to save on cleanup time.

Substitute Ingredients For Creamy Green Beans Parmesan Recipe

fresh green beans - Substitute with frozen green beans: Frozen green beans are a convenient alternative and retain much of their nutritional value. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before use.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil provides a healthier fat option and adds a slightly different but pleasant flavor to the dish.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream is a dairy-free alternative that provides a similar creamy texture and richness.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast offers a cheesy flavor and is a great vegan alternative to parmesan cheese.
ground nutmeg - Substitute with ground cinnamon: Ground cinnamon can provide a warm, slightly sweet flavor similar to nutmeg.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor to the dish, but use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the other flavors.
ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat and flavor profile but is slightly milder and less visually noticeable in creamy dishes.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with grated pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano is a hard, salty cheese similar to parmesan but with a slightly sharper flavor.

Best Way to Present Creamy Green Beans Parmesan

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the green beans in a neat, compact mound to highlight their vibrant color and freshness.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with a light dusting of parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Add texture: Include a few toasted almond slivers or crispy shallots on top of the green beans to add a contrasting crunch.
Create height: Stack the green beans slightly to give the dish a more dynamic and visually appealing structure.
Use a sauce drizzle: Drizzle a thin line of the creamy parmesan sauce around the plate to frame the green beans and add an elegant touch.
Incorporate color contrast: Place the green beans on a white or light-colored plate to make the green color stand out more vividly.
Highlight the main ingredient: Ensure the green beans are the star of the plate by keeping other elements minimal and complementary.
Finish with a touch of luxury: Add a few shavings of truffle or a light drizzle of truffle oil for an extra layer of sophistication and flavor.

Essential Tools for Making This Creamy Green Bean Recipe

Large pot: Used to boil the green beans in lightly-salted water until they are bright green and barely tender.
Skillet: Used to melt the butter and simmer the cream, parmesan cheese, and nutmeg mixture.
Whisk: Essential for blending the cream, parmesan cheese, and nutmeg into the melted butter smoothly.
Colander: Used to drain the green beans after boiling.
Serving dish: For transferring the creamy green beans mixture and presenting it attractively.
Measuring spoons: Necessary for accurately measuring the butter, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese.
Measuring cup: Used to measure the heavy cream.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for gently stirring the green beans into the creamy mixture to coat them evenly.
Knife: Useful for trimming the ends of the fresh green beans before cooking.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for trimming the green beans.

How To Store and Freeze Creamy Green Beans Parmesan

To store leftover creamy green beans parmesan, allow the dish to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating, add a splash of heavy cream or milk to help restore the creamy texture, as the sauce may thicken during storage.
For longer storage, you can freeze the creamy green beans parmesan. Place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat from frozen, thaw the green beans overnight in the refrigerator. Transfer the thawed dish to a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, add a little cream or milk, and heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
Note: The texture of the green beans may change slightly after freezing and thawing, as they may become softer. However, the flavor of the dish should remain delicious.

How To Reheat Leftover Creamy Green Beans Parmesan

Reheat the creamy green beans parmesan in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This method helps to preserve the texture of the green beans and prevents the cream sauce from separating or becoming grainy.
For a quick and easy reheating option, microwave the creamy green beans parmesan in a microwave-safe dish, covered with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the dish is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the cream sauce to separate or the green beans to become mushy.
If you have an oven-safe dish, you can reheat the creamy green beans parmesan in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. Cover the dish with foil to prevent the top from drying out, and heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the dish is heated through. This method is ideal if you're reheating a large portion or if you want to maintain a crispy parmesan topping.
For a stovetop method that adds extra flavor, sauté the creamy green beans parmesan in a skillet with a small amount of butter or olive oil over medium heat. Stir frequently until the dish is heated through and the green beans are lightly caramelized. This method can help to revive any flavors that may have diminished during storage.
If the cream sauce appears too thick after reheating, add a splash of heavy cream, milk, or chicken broth to thin it out and restore its original consistency. Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and freshly grated parmesan cheese to taste before serving.

Random Fact About Creamy Green Beans Parmesan

A random fact about this recipe is that parmesan cheese not only adds a rich, savory flavor but also provides a good source of calcium and protein, enhancing the nutritional value of the creamy green beans.

Is Making Creamy Green Beans Parmesan at Home Cost-Effective?

When evaluating the cost-effectiveness of this creamy green beans parmesan recipe, it stands out as a budget-friendly option. Fresh green beans are typically inexpensive, and the other ingredients like butter, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese are used in small quantities, making them cost-effective. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $8-$10 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is This Creamy Side Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

The creamy green beans parmesan recipe, while delicious, may not be the healthiest option due to a few key ingredients:

Heavy cream and butter are high in saturated fats, which can contribute to heart disease and other health issues when consumed in excess.
The recipe calls for a significant amount of parmesan cheese, which is high in sodium and can lead to increased blood pressure.
The recipe lacks a variety of nutrients, as it primarily focuses on green beans and dairy products.

However, the recipe does include green beans, which are a nutritious vegetable packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace the heavy cream with a lower-fat alternative, such as evaporated skim milk or Greek yogurt, to reduce the saturated fat content.
Use a smaller amount of butter or substitute it with olive oil, which is a healthier source of fat.
Reduce the amount of parmesan cheese used in the recipe to lower the sodium content. You can also opt for a low-sodium variety of parmesan cheese.
Add other vegetables to the dish, such as cherry tomatoes, red bell peppers, or mushrooms, to increase the nutrient diversity and fiber content.
Consider using whole-grain pasta or quinoa as a base for the green beans to add more fiber and complex carbohydrates to the meal.

Editor's Thoughts on This Creamy Green Bean Parmesan Recipe

This creamy green beans parmesan recipe is a delightful blend of simplicity and elegance. The combination of fresh green beans with a rich, buttery cream sauce, accented by the nutty flavor of parmesan and a hint of nutmeg, creates a harmonious balance of flavors. The dish is easy to prepare yet sophisticated enough to impress at any dinner table. The final sprinkle of parmesan adds a lovely finishing touch, enhancing both the taste and presentation. Overall, it's a comforting and delicious side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses.

Enhance Your Creamy Green Beans Parmesan Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Imagine the creamy texture of potatoes infused with the aromatic essence of garlic. This side dish will complement the rich flavors of the creamy green beans parmesan, creating a harmonious balance on your plate.

Lemon Herb Chicken: Lemon Herb Chicken: Picture succulent chicken breasts marinated in a zesty lemon and herb mixture, then grilled to perfection. The bright, citrusy notes will cut through the creaminess of the green beans, offering a refreshing contrast.

Roasted Butternut Squash: Roasted Butternut Squash: Envision cubes of butternut squash roasted until caramelized and tender, with a hint of cinnamon and maple syrup. This sweet and savory side dish will add a delightful depth to your meal.

Wild Rice Pilaf: Wild Rice Pilaf: Think of a medley of wild rice and vegetables cooked in a flavorful broth, with a touch of herbs. The nutty texture and earthy flavors will provide a perfect counterpoint to the creamy green beans.

Apple Walnut Salad: Apple Walnut Salad: Visualize crisp apple slices tossed with mixed greens, walnuts, and a tangy vinaigrette. This fresh and crunchy salad will add a burst of freshness and a delightful crunch to your meal.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Creamy Green Beans Parmesan

Garlic Butter Green Beans: Imagine fresh green beans sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce. This dish is a perfect side for any meat or poultry main course. The beans are cooked until tender-crisp, then tossed in a fragrant blend of melted butter and minced garlic. A sprinkle of sea salt and a dash of black pepper elevate the flavors to new heights.

Green Bean Almondine: A classic French-inspired dish, Green Bean Almondine features green beans sautéed with butter and sliced almonds. The beans are blanched to a vibrant green, then tossed with the toasted almonds and a splash of lemon juice. This elegant side dish pairs beautifully with fish or chicken.

Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Dive into a warm, comforting bowl of Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Dip. This indulgent appetizer combines spinach, artichoke hearts, and a blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and parmesan cheese. Serve it with crusty bread or tortilla chips for a crowd-pleasing starter.

Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Elevate your asparagus game with this simple yet flavorful recipe. Fresh asparagus spears are tossed in olive oil, seasoned with salt and pepper, and roasted until tender. A generous sprinkle of parmesan cheese adds a savory, crispy finish. This dish is a perfect accompaniment to any main course.

Cheesy Broccoli Casserole: Indulge in a comforting Cheesy Broccoli Casserole. Fresh broccoli florets are mixed with a creamy cheddar cheese sauce and topped with a crunchy breadcrumb topping. Baked to golden perfection, this casserole is a hit at any family gathering or holiday meal.

Why trust this Creamy Green Beans Parmesan Recipe:

This recipe for creamy green beans parmesan is a delightful way to elevate a classic vegetable. The combination of fresh green beans, butter, and heavy cream creates a rich and satisfying dish. The addition of parmesan cheese and a hint of nutmeg adds depth and complexity to the flavor. With simple steps and readily available ingredients, this recipe is both accessible and delicious. Trust in the quality of these ingredients and the straightforward preparation to deliver a dish that will impress your family and friends.

Have you tried this Creamy Green Beans Parmesan recipe? Share your experience and discuss any variations in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

How do I know when the green beans are done cooking?

You'll know the green beans are done when they turn bright green and are barely tender. This usually takes about 6 minutes. You want them to have a bit of a bite, not be mushy.

Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh ones?

Sure, you can use frozen green beans. Just make sure to thaw them first and adjust the cooking time since they might cook a bit faster than fresh ones.

What kind of nutmeg should I use?

Ground nutmeg works perfectly fine for this recipe. If you have whole nutmeg and a grater, freshly grated nutmeg can add an extra burst of flavor.

Can I substitute the heavy cream with something else?

If you're looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even milk, but keep in mind the sauce might be a bit less creamy. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream can work, though it will change the flavor slightly.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

To prevent curdling, make sure to melt the butter over medium-low heat and whisk in the cream slowly. Bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer rather than a rapid boil helps keep the sauce smooth and creamy.