Green Beans with Parmesan Cheese Sauce is a flavorful and satisfying side dish that combines tender green beans with a rich, cheesy sauce and a crunchy peanut topping. This vintage recipe offers a delicious twist on classic green beans, perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday meals, or potlucks. The sauce, made with Parmesan cheese and a hint of tarragon vinegar, adds a creamy texture and a tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the beans, while the peanuts provide a crunchy contrast.
Join our Vintage Recipe Facebook Group to discuss and find “new” old recipes to enjoy.
Links to find other recipes:
Green Beans with Parmesan Cheese Sauce
Food History
Green beans have been a staple in American cooking for centuries, with their origins tracing back to Central and South America. They were introduced to Europe and later the United States in the 16th century and have since become a versatile ingredient in both everyday meals and special occasions. Often prepared simply—steamed, sautéed, or boiled—green beans are popular for their fresh taste and nutritional benefits.
The combination of green beans with a cheese sauce has its roots in French cuisine, where vegetables are often dressed with rich, creamy sauces. An Italian favorite, Parmesan cheese brings a nutty flavor and creamy texture that enhances the beans’ natural taste. The use of tarragon vinegar in the sauce adds a subtle tang, a classic touch in French-inspired dishes that balances the richness of the cheese.
Dry roasted peanuts add a modern American twist to this classic preparation. Peanuts, native to South America, have become a staple in American cooking, appearing in everything from desserts to savory dishes. Adding them to green beans introduces a delightful crunch that complements the creamy sauce.
Think green beans are boring? Think again! Dive into our side dish recipes that’ll make even the pickiest eaters ask for seconds—because veggies don’t have to be the underdog on your plate!
View Green Bean Recipes and Side Dish Recipes.
Timeline
- 16th Century: Green beans are introduced to Europe and later the United States by explorers. They become a staple in cooking due to their versatility and nutritional value.
- 18th Century: Parmesan cheese, originally from Italy, is used in various dishes, including sauces for vegetables in European cuisine.
- 20th Century: French-inspired recipes using cheese sauces with vegetables, such as green beans, gain popularity in American home cooking.
- Today: Green Beans with Parmesan Cheese Sauce remains a delicious and versatile side dish, incorporating elements from different culinary traditions.
Recipe Discussion
This Green Beans with Parmesan Cheese Sauce recipe combines classic ingredients with simple cooking techniques to create a delicious and versatile side dish. Here’s a breakdown of the key components:
- Green Beans: Fresh or frozen green beans work well in this recipe. Cooking them until just tender ensures they retain their bright color and slightly crisp texture, providing the perfect base for the creamy sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese Sauce: The sauce is made by creating a roux with butter and flour, then adding milk for a creamy consistency. The Parmesan cheese adds a rich, nutty flavor, while the tarragon vinegar provides a subtle tang that cuts through the richness.
- Egg: Adding a beaten egg to the sauce helps thicken it, creating a smooth, velvety texture. It’s important to temper the egg by blending it with a bit of the hot mixture before adding it back to the saucepan to prevent curdling.
- Tarragon Vinegar: This vinegar adds a hint of herbaceous flavor and acidity, which balances the creamy and cheesy elements of the sauce.
- Dry Roasted Peanuts: These provide a crunchy topping that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce. They add an unexpected texture and flavor, making this dish stand out.
Preparation Tips
- Tempering the Egg: When adding the beaten egg to the sauce, it’s important to temper it by blending it with a small amount of the hot mixture first. This helps prevent the egg from scrambling when it is added back to the hot sauce.
- Use Fresh or Frozen Beans: Both fresh and frozen beans work well. If using fresh beans, cook them in salted boiling water until tender but still crisp. If using frozen beans, follow the package directions for cooking times.
- Adjust the Consistency: If the cheese sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to reach the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, cook it a bit longer over low heat until it thickens.
- Alternative Toppings: If you don’t have peanuts, try substituting with toasted almonds, walnuts, or pecans. These options also provide a nice crunch and flavor.
- Cheese Variations: While Parmesan is classic, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Recommended Kitchen Products
The links below lead to top-rated products on Amazon—if you use our links, we can save more recipes.
- Saucepan: A 1-quart non-stick saucepan is perfect for making the cheese sauce. It allows for even heating and prevents sticking.
- Vegetable Steamer: A vegetable steamer basket is ideal for cooking fresh green beans, ensuring they cook evenly and retain their vibrant green color.
- Grater: A quality handheld cheese grater makes it easy to grate fresh Parmesan directly into the sauce, enhancing the flavor.
- Whisk: A silicone-coated whisk is perfect for stirring the sauce without scratching the non-stick surface of your pan.
Serving Suggestions
- Holiday Side Dish: This dish is perfect for holiday meals, pairing beautifully with roasted turkey, ham, or prime rib.
- Everyday Dinner: Serve alongside grilled chicken or baked fish for a balanced weeknight dinner.
- Vegetarian Option: Pair this green bean dish with a grain like quinoa or wild rice, along with a fresh salad, for a complete vegetarian meal.
- With Pasta: For a twist, mix the green beans and cheese sauce with cooked pasta to create a quick and easy pasta primavera.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Add a sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives on top for a fresh, bright flavor that complements the rich sauce.
Move over, turkey—Green Bean Casserole is the real star of the table. Get the scoop on everything you need to make this classic dish a showstopper, from recipes to the juicy history behind it!
A Classic and Flavorful Side Dish
Green Beans with Parmesan Cheese Sauce offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The fresh green beans, creamy cheese sauce, and crunchy peanut topping make this dish a versatile and crowd-pleasing addition to any meal. Whether for a special holiday dinner or a simple weeknight side, this recipe brings comfort and flavor to your table. Give it a try and enjoy a classic vegetable dish with a delicious twist!
Start Your Recipe Box
- Start your recipe box or your family or friends. View New and Vintage Recipe Boxes
- View Recipe Cards and Templates
- View Recipe Card Protectors and Sleeves
Vintage Goodies
- Vintage Kitchenware on Etsy
- Vintage Recipes on Amazon
- Vintage Cookbooks on eBay
- Vintage Cookbooks on Etsy
Green Beans with Parmesan Cheese Sauce
Green Beans with Parmesan Cheese Sauce (VRP 400)
Ingredients
- 2 packages (9-oz. each) frozen green beans or 1½ pounds fresh beans
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons regular all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 egg, beaten
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon tarragon vinegar
- ½ cup dry roasted peanuts
Instructions
- Cook beans according to package directions or cook fresh beans in boiling salted water until tender. In 1-qt. saucepan melt butter; stir in flour.
- Remove from heat; gradually stir in milk.
- Cook over medium heat; stirring constantly, until thickened.
- Blend a little hot mixture into egg; return all to saucepan.
- Cook 1 additional minute. Remove from heat; stir in cheese and vinegar.
If necessary, return to low heat to finish melting cheese. - Place beans in serving dish. Pour sauce over. Sprinkle with peanuts.