Healthy Green Bean Casserole

Looking for a healthier twist on the classic green bean casserole? This recipe swaps the heavy cream and canned soups for a protein-packed, wholesome base made from cottage cheese and Greek yogurt. It’s light yet creamy, packed with flavor, and perfect for any family gathering or weeknight dinner. With fresh green beans, a velvety sauce, and a crispy topping, it’s a dish you can feel good about serving. Let’s dive into this guilt-free, delicious take on a holiday favorite!

Here's a Healthy Green Bean Casserole recipe using a cottage cheese base for a creamy and protein-packed twist:

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces (or use frozen green beans, thawed)

• 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt

• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth

• 1/2 medium onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• 1/4 tsp salt (optional, adjust to taste)

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 cup whole-grain breadcrumbs or almond flour (for gluten-free option)

• 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil

• Optional: 1/4 cup crispy fried onions for topping

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a casserole dish.

2. Cook Green Beans

   • Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the green beans and blanch for 3-4 minutes.

   • Drain and immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking. Drain again and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce

   • Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and soft (about 3-4 minutes).

   • In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, broth, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.

   • Stir the blended sauce into the skillet with the cooked onions and garlic. Heat gently, stirring occasionally.

4. Assemble the Casserole

   • Place the green beans in the prepared casserole dish. Pour the sauce over the beans and mix gently to coat.

   • Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

   • If using breadcrumbs or almond flour, sprinkle them over the cheese.

5. Bake

   • Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

6. Optional Topping

   • If using crispy fried onions, sprinkle them on top in the last 5 minutes of baking for extra crunch.

Serving

This casserole serves about 6 as a side dish. It pairs well with roasted chicken, turkey, or your favorite lean protein.

This version is creamy, flavorful, and much healthier than traditional green bean casseroles! Let me know if you try it. 😊