Alpine-Style Green Bean Casserole

Alpine-Style Green Bean Casserole

Ingredients:

• 5 Tbsp. butter, cubed and divided
• 3/4 cup panko bread crumbs
• 1 1/2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup water
• 3 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 teaspoon each salt and pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
• 8 oz. Gruyere cheese, shredded and divided (2 cups)
• Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a 12-inch ovenproof or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add bread crumbs; cook and stir for 1-2 minutes or until toasted. Transfer bread crumbs to a bowl. Wipe out the pan.
• Bring green beans and water to a boil in the same pan; cook over medium-high heat for 7-8 minutes or until beans are crisp-tender, stirring occasionally. Drain and transfer green beans to a large bowl; keep warm. Wipe skillet dry.
• Melt remaining butter in the same pan over medium-low heat. Whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in milk, salt, pepper and cayenne pepper if desired. Bring to a boil; cook and whisk for 2 minutes or until thickened.
• Reduce heat to low; gradually whisk in 1 1/2 cups cheese until melted. Stir in green beans.
• Remove from the heat. Sprinkle with bread crumbs and remaining cheese. Broil 3-4 inches from the heat for 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted.