Introduction: Can a Side Dish Be Comforting, Cheesy, and Crunchy?
Craving a fresh twist on a classic holiday side? Green Bean Cobbler takes the beloved flavors of green bean casserole and elevates them with a cheesy, tender biscuit topping and a must-have crunchy fried onion finish. Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars from 1 review, this easy, one-skillet dish combines a creamy mushroom sauce with fresh green beans and a savory cobbler topping for a comforting, crowd-pleasing addition to any meal. Ready to bake a bubbly, flavorful cobbler? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Overview: Why Green Bean Cobbler Shines
Green Bean Cobbler is cherished for its creamy mushroom filling, cheesy biscuit topping, and crispy fried onions, making it a standout comfort food. Here’s what makes it special:
- Time Requirement: 35 minutes active prep, 1 hour 15 minutes total (including 35-40 minutes baking).
- Difficulty Level: Easy—requires straightforward cooking and baking, perfect for all skill levels.
- Why It’s Special: Fresh green beans and a homemade mushroom sauce deliver classic casserole flavors, while the cheesy biscuit topping and fried onions add a delightful twist. This recipe serves 8, ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy dinners.
Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any meal where comfort food steals the show.
Essential Ingredients
Green Bean Cobbler uses fresh ingredients and pantry staples for a rich, savory dish. Here’s what you’ll need for 8 servings:
Dough
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Forms the base of the biscuit topping (spoon and level for accuracy).
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Ensures a light, risen topping.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances flavor.
- 4 tablespoons (½ stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes: Creates a flaky, tender texture.
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp Cheddar (6 ounces): Adds cheesy richness.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Infuses fresh, herbaceous flavor.
- â…” cup half-and-half: Binds the dough for a soft texture.
Green Bean and Mushroom Filling
- 4 tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter: Forms the base of the creamy sauce.
- 1 small onion, finely diced: Adds savory depth.
- 8 ounces button or cremini mushrooms, sliced: Provides earthy, umami flavor.
- 4 fresh thyme sprigs: Infuses aromatic warmth.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: ½ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper for mushrooms, plus 2 teaspoons salt for filling.
- 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce.
- 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth: Creates a savory base.
- 2 ½ cups half-and-half: Adds creamy richness.
- 1 pound green beans, cut into 1 ½-inch pieces: The crisp, vibrant star.
- 1 ½ cups prepared fried onions: Adds the classic crunchy topping.
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Green Beans: Provide a fresh, crisp contrast to the creamy sauce.
- Mushrooms and Onion: Add savory, earthy depth.
- Cheddar Biscuit Topping: Delivers a tender, cheesy layer.
- Fried Onions: Ensure the iconic crunchy finish.
Substitutions and Variations
- Green Beans: Use frozen green beans (thawed and patted dry) or canned (drained well).
- Mushrooms: Swap with shiitake or oyster mushrooms for a different flavor.
- Cheddar: Replace with Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or vegan cheese for dairy-free.
- Half-and-Half: Use whole milk or a mix of milk and cream; for vegan, use plant-based cream.
- Flour: Swap with gluten-free 1:1 flour or 2 ½ tablespoons cornstarch for the filling.
- Fried Onions: Use panko or crushed crackers for a different crunch.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter, cheese, and cream; replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and fried onions (or gluten-free panko).
- Flavor Variations:
- Spicy Green Bean Cobbler: Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne to the filling.
- Herb-Infused Cobbler: Add 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary to the dough.
- Bacon Green Bean Cobbler: Add 4 slices cooked, crumbled bacon to the filling.
- Garlic Mushroom Cobbler: Add 2 minced garlic cloves with the mushrooms.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Green Bean Cobbler is a simple, one-skillet process that yields a comforting, flavorful dish. Let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Gather and Prep
- Gather all ingredients: 1 ½ cups flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon salt, 4 tablespoons butter, 1 ½ cups Cheddar, 2 tablespoons parsley, ⅔ cup half-and-half (for dough); 4 tablespoons butter, 1 small onion, 8 ounces mushrooms, 4 thyme sprigs, salt, pepper, 5 tablespoons flour, 2 ½ cups chicken broth, 2 ½ cups half-and-half, 1 pound green beans, and 1 ½ cups fried onions (for filling).
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Use a large oven-safe cast-iron skillet (10-12 inches) for cooking and baking.
Tip: Spoon and level flour to avoid a dense dough; cut green beans uniformly for even cooking.
Step 2: Make the Dough
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1 teaspoon kosher salt.
- Rub 4 tablespoons cold butter cubes into the flour mixture with your fingers until crumbly, resembling coarse meal.
- Stir in 1 ½ cups shredded Cheddar and 2 tablespoons chopped parsley.
- Add â…” cup half-and-half and stir with a fork or silicone spatula until just combined (avoid overmixing).
- Refrigerate the dough until ready to use.
Tip: Keep butter cold for a flaky texture; mix dough minimally to keep biscuits tender.
Step 3: Prepare the Green Bean and Mushroom Filling
- Melt 4 tablespoons butter in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
- Add 1 finely diced onion and cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
- Add 8 ounces sliced mushrooms and 4 thyme sprigs; cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are browned, about 8 minutes.
- Season with ½ teaspoon salt and a few grinds of pepper.
- Sprinkle 5 tablespoons flour over the mixture and stir until absorbed, about 1 minute.
- Gradually pour in 2 ½ cups chicken broth and 2 ½ cups half-and-half, stirring constantly, then switch to a whisk to break up lumps.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and whisk occasionally until lightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Remove thyme stems and stir in 1 pound green beans, 2 teaspoons salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper until heated through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Tip: Whisk continuously when adding liquids to prevent lumps; simmer gently to thicken without scorching.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Break off walnut-sized pieces of dough and scatter evenly over the green bean mixture in the skillet.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake until the biscuits are lightly browned and fully cooked and the filling is bubbling, 30-35 minutes.
- Sprinkle 1 ½ cups fried onions over the top and bake for an additional 5 minutes until onions are heated through and browned.
Tip: Space dough pieces evenly for consistent baking; cover with foil if biscuits brown too quickly.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve hot, scooping about ¾ cup per serving directly from the skillet.
- Pair with roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, or cranberry sauce for a holiday feast.
Tip: Let cool for 5 minutes before serving for easier scooping; use a large spoon to include both filling and biscuits.
Assembly: Building the Perfect Green Bean Cobbler
Making Green Bean Cobbler is all about creating a comforting, layered dish with classic flavors. Here’s how to make it shine:
- Mushroom Sauce: Forms a creamy, savory base for the green beans.
- Green Beans: Add fresh, crisp texture.
- Cheesy Biscuit Topping: Provides a tender, flavorful layer.
- Fried Onions: Deliver the iconic crunchy finish.
Presentation Tips
- Serve directly from the cast-iron skillet for a rustic, cozy vibe.
- Garnish with extra parsley or a sprinkle of Cheddar for color.
- Pair with holiday classics like turkey or stuffing for a complete meal.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Green Bean Cobbler is great for leftovers or partial prep ahead.
- Storage:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze baked cobbler (without fried onions) for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Make-Ahead:
- Prepare the filling (without green beans) up to 1 day ahead; refrigerate and reheat gently before adding beans.
- Make dough up to 1 day ahead; wrap tightly and refrigerate.
- Assemble (without fried onions) up to 1 day ahead; add onions just before baking.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, for 15-20 minutes; add fresh fried onions for crunch.
- Tip: Store fried onions separately to maintain crispiness; add after reheating.
Recipe Variations
Green Bean Cobbler is versatile and easy to customize. Here are some fun twists:
- Classic Green Bean Casserole: Omit biscuit topping and double fried onions for a traditional casserole.
- Vegan Green Bean Cobbler: Use plant-based butter, cheese, and cream; replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Gluten-Free Cobbler: Use gluten-free 1:1 flour and gluten-free fried onions or panko.
- Spicy Cobbler: Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes to the filling.
- Herby Cornmeal Cobbler: Replace ½ cup flour with cornmeal in the dough and add 1 teaspoon rosemary.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Based on 8 Servings)
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 kcal (varies by portion size).
- Protein: Moderate, from cheese and broth.
- Fat: High, from butter, cheese, and half-and-half.
- Carbs: Moderate, from flour and green beans.
- Note: For precise nutrition, calculate based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Conclusion: Savor the Comforting Crunch!
Green Bean Cobbler is the side dish that brings creamy, cheesy, and crunchy perfection to every bite. With its savory mushroom-green bean filling, tender Cheddar biscuit topping, and crispy fried onions, it’s perfect for Thanksgiving, holiday feasts, or cozy dinners. Easy to make with a big comfort food payoff, this cobbler is sure to become a favorite. So, grab your cast-iron skillet, whip up this delicious dish, and enjoy a new classic. We’d love to hear how your cobbler turns out—share your creations in the comments or on social media!
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Green Bean Cobbler
Description
Craving a fresh twist on a classic holiday side? Green Bean Cobbler takes the beloved flavors of green bean casserole and elevates them with a cheesy, tender biscuit topping and a must-have crunchy fried onion finish.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Forms the base of the biscuit topping (spoon and level for accuracy).
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Ensures a light, risen topping.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances flavor.
- 4 tablespoons (½ stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes: Creates a flaky, tender texture.
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp Cheddar (6 ounces): Adds cheesy richness.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Infuses fresh, herbaceous flavor.
- â…” cup half-and-half: Binds the dough for a soft texture.
Green Bean and Mushroom Filling
- 4 tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter: Forms the base of the creamy sauce.
- 1 small onion, finely diced: Adds savory depth.
- 8 ounces button or cremini mushrooms, sliced: Provides earthy, umami flavor.
- 4 fresh thyme sprigs: Infuses aromatic warmth.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: ½ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper for mushrooms, plus 2 teaspoons salt for filling.
- 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce.
- 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth: Creates a savory base.
- 2 ½ cups half-and-half: Adds creamy richness.
- 1 pound green beans, cut into 1 ½-inch pieces: The crisp, vibrant star.
- 1 ½ cups prepared fried onions: Adds the classic crunchy topping.
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Green Beans: Provide a fresh, crisp contrast to the creamy sauce.
- Mushrooms and Onion: Add savory, earthy depth.
- Cheddar Biscuit Topping: Delivers a tender, cheesy layer.
- Fried Onions: Ensure the iconic crunchy finish.
Substitutions and Variations
- Green Beans: Use frozen green beans (thawed and patted dry) or canned (drained well).
- Mushrooms: Swap with shiitake or oyster mushrooms for a different flavor.
- Cheddar: Replace with Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or vegan cheese for dairy-free.
- Half-and-Half: Use whole milk or a mix of milk and cream; for vegan, use plant-based cream.
- Flour: Swap with gluten-free 1:1 flour or 2 ½ tablespoons cornstarch for the filling.
- Fried Onions: Use panko or crushed crackers for a different crunch.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter, cheese, and cream; replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and fried onions (or gluten-free panko).
- Flavor Variations:
- Spicy Green Bean Cobbler: Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne to the filling.
- Herb-Infused Cobbler: Add 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary to the dough.
- Bacon Green Bean Cobbler: Add 4 slices cooked, crumbled bacon to the filling.
- Garlic Mushroom Cobbler: Add 2 minced garlic cloves with the mushrooms.
Instructions
Step 1: Gather and Prep
- Gather all ingredients: 1 ½ cups flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon salt, 4 tablespoons butter, 1 ½ cups Cheddar, 2 tablespoons parsley, ⅔ cup half-and-half (for dough); 4 tablespoons butter, 1 small onion, 8 ounces mushrooms, 4 thyme sprigs, salt, pepper, 5 tablespoons flour, 2 ½ cups chicken broth, 2 ½ cups half-and-half, 1 pound green beans, and 1 ½ cups fried onions (for filling).
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Use a large oven-safe cast-iron skillet (10-12 inches) for cooking and baking.
Tip: Spoon and level flour to avoid a dense dough; cut green beans uniformly for even cooking.
Step 2: Make the Dough
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1 teaspoon kosher salt.
- Rub 4 tablespoons cold butter cubes into the flour mixture with your fingers until crumbly, resembling coarse meal.
- Stir in 1 ½ cups shredded Cheddar and 2 tablespoons chopped parsley.
- Add â…” cup half-and-half and stir with a fork or silicone spatula until just combined (avoid overmixing).
- Refrigerate the dough until ready to use.
Tip: Keep butter cold for a flaky texture; mix dough minimally to keep biscuits tender.
Step 3: Prepare the Green Bean and Mushroom Filling
- Melt 4 tablespoons butter in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
- Add 1 finely diced onion and cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
- Add 8 ounces sliced mushrooms and 4 thyme sprigs; cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are browned, about 8 minutes.
- Season with ½ teaspoon salt and a few grinds of pepper.
- Sprinkle 5 tablespoons flour over the mixture and stir until absorbed, about 1 minute.
- Gradually pour in 2 ½ cups chicken broth and 2 ½ cups half-and-half, stirring constantly, then switch to a whisk to break up lumps.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and whisk occasionally until lightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Remove thyme stems and stir in 1 pound green beans, 2 teaspoons salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper until heated through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Tip: Whisk continuously when adding liquids to prevent lumps; simmer gently to thicken without scorching.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Break off walnut-sized pieces of dough and scatter evenly over the green bean mixture in the skillet.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake until the biscuits are lightly browned and fully cooked and the filling is bubbling, 30-35 minutes.
- Sprinkle 1 ½ cups fried onions over the top and bake for an additional 5 minutes until onions are heated through and browned.
Tip: Space dough pieces evenly for consistent baking; cover with foil if biscuits brown too quickly.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve hot, scooping about ¾ cup per serving directly from the skillet.
- Pair with roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, or cranberry sauce for a holiday feast.
Tip: Let cool for 5 minutes before serving for easier scooping; use a large spoon to include both filling and biscuits.
FAQs
1. Why is my biscuit topping dense?
Overmixing or compacting flour can cause density. Stir dough just until combined and spoon flour lightly when measuring.
2. Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, thaw and pat dry before adding; no need to cook separately.
3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not as written; use gluten-free flour and fried onions for a gluten-free version.
4. Can I make this without mushrooms?
Yes, omit mushrooms and add ½ cup diced celery or carrots for flavor.
5. Why is my sauce lumpy?
Insufficient whisking can cause lumps. Whisk constantly when adding broth and half-and-half.
6. Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, assemble without fried onions up to 1 day ahead; add onions before baking for crunch.
7. What are the health benefits of this dish?
Green beans provide fiber and vitamins, cheese adds protein, but the dish is rich due to butter and cream—enjoy in moderation.