Name: Green Bean Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni or pasta of choice; 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces; 2 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; ½ cup grated mozzarella (optional, for extra creaminess); ¼ tsp garlic powder; Salt and black pepper, to taste; ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping); 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for breadcrumbs)

A creamy, cheesy twist on the classic comfort food — tender pasta and fresh green beans baked in a rich cheese sauce for a hearty and veggie-packed family favorite.

Origin Green Bean Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese is a beloved American classic, and this version adds green beans for a simple way to incorporate vegetables while keeping all the cheesy goodness intact.

What I Love About This Recipe

It’s cozy, creamy, and comforting — and the green beans add texture, freshness, and a nutritious touch. It’s a smart way to sneak in veggies without sacrificing flavor.

Green Bean Mac and Cheese

Recipe by RecipeWikki

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup grated mozzarella (optional, for extra creaminess)
¼ tsp garlic powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for breadcrumbs)

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
Cook pasta according to package instructions. During the last 2 minutes of boiling, add the green beans. Drain and set aside.
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly.
Gradually whisk in milk, cooking until slightly thickened (3–5 minutes).
Stir in cheddar, mozzarella (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Combine cooked pasta and green beans with the cheese sauce. Mix well and pour into the prepared dish.
If using breadcrumbs, mix them with olive oil or melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use frozen green beans if fresh aren’t available — just thaw and drain well.
Add cooked bacon, ham, or grilled chicken for a protein boost.
For a spicier version, stir in a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.

Creamy Mac and Cheese