Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole elevates the classic holiday side dish with a creamy cheddar base and a golden biscuit topping inspired by Red Lobster’s famous Cheddar Bay Biscuits. Tender green beans are baked in a rich cheese sauce, then crowned with fluffy, savory biscuits brushed in seasoned butter. It’s comforting, indulgent, and guaranteed to stand out on any holiday table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic with a Twist – Reinvents traditional green bean casserole.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor – Creamy, cheesy, and buttery biscuit topping.
- Perfect Holiday Side – Ideal for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Assemble early and bake when ready.
- Hearty & Satisfying – More substantial than traditional versions.
- Easy Preparation – Simple mixing and baking process.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Green Bean Base
- 26 oz frozen cut green beans, thawed – Tender vegetable base.
- 10.5 oz condensed cheddar soup – Provides creamy structure.
- 2 cups milk, divided – Thins soup and mixes biscuit batter.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Adds extra richness.
- ¼ cup dehydrated minced onion – Boosts savory depth.
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning – Adds herb complexity.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances overall flavor.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds subtle heat.
For the Biscuit Topping
- 1 box Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix (with seasoning packet) – Forms fluffy, cheesy topping.
- Remaining milk (from 2 cups total) – Used to prepare biscuit batter.
- Melted butter (for brushing) – Adds signature richness after baking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Mix the Casserole Base
In a large bowl, combine thawed green beans, condensed cheddar soup, milk (reserve portion for biscuits), minced onion, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly blended. Fold in shredded cheddar.
Assemble in Baking Dish
Spread the green bean mixture evenly into the prepared dish.
Prepare the Biscuit Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the biscuit mix and seasoning packet with the remaining milk. Stir until smooth and slightly thick.
Top the Casserole
Spread the biscuit batter evenly over the green bean mixture, covering the surface.
Bake Until Golden
Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until the biscuit topping is golden brown and fully cooked through.
Finish with Butter
Brush melted butter mixed with the biscuit seasoning over the top immediately after baking. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Recipe Notes & Tips
- Drain Green Beans Well – Prevents watery casserole.
- Don’t Overmix Biscuit Batter – Keeps topping fluffy.
- Check Biscuit Center – Ensure it’s fully baked.
- Let Rest Before Serving – Helps layers set.
- Use Sharp Cheddar – Enhances flavor depth.
- Add Extra Cheese on Top – For extra richness.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Servings: 12
- Calories: 350 kcal per serving
Per Serving (Approximate):
Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 20g | Fiber: 5g
Perfect Pairings
- Roast Turkey or Ham – Holiday centerpiece pairing.
- Mashed Potatoes & Gravy – Classic comfort addition.
- Cranberry Sauce – Bright contrast.
- Simple Garden Salad – Fresh balance.
Ideal Occasions
- Thanksgiving Dinner – Show-stopping side.
- Christmas Gatherings – Crowd favorite.
- Family Potlucks – Unique twist on tradition.
- Sunday Dinners – Comforting family meal.
Storage & Serving Tips
- Refrigerate Airtight – Keeps up to 3–4 days.
- Reheat Covered in Oven – Prevents drying.
- Avoid Freezing – Biscuit topping texture may change.
- Add Fresh Butter Before Reheating – Refreshes flavor.
Creative Variations to Try
- Add Crispy Bacon Bits – Extra savory crunch.
- Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes.
- Mushroom Boost – Mix in sautéed mushrooms.
- Extra Cheesy Version – Add mozzarella layer.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Watery Base – Drain beans thoroughly before mixing.
- Undercooked Biscuit Center – Bake a few minutes longer.
- Overbrowned Top – Cover loosely with foil if needed.
- Too Salty – Reduce added salt due to soup and mix.
Why This Recipe Works
This casserole works because it balances creamy and fluffy textures in a single dish. The condensed cheddar soup forms a thick, cohesive sauce that coats the green beans evenly, while added cheese enhances richness. Baking the biscuit topping directly over the filling allows steam from the casserole to help cook it through while the surface browns. Brushing seasoned butter at the end locks in moisture and delivers the iconic Cheddar Bay flavor. At 350 calories per serving, it’s indulgent yet perfectly portioned for holiday spreads.
Final Thoughts
Cheddar Bay Green Bean Casserole takes a nostalgic favorite and turns it into a memorable centerpiece side dish. Creamy, cheesy, and topped with golden biscuit goodness, it’s the kind of recipe guests will ask for year after year. Perfect for holidays or cozy family dinners, this modern twist on a classic never disappoints.
