With just a couple of ingredients, you can make these Smashed Green Beans for a crunchy, cheesy side dish. They’re so good even picky-eaters will forget they’re eating a vegetable!

Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Kid-Friendly. If there was ever a recipe that will get your kids to like green beans this is it!
- Amazing Flavor and Texture. The crispy texture and cheesy flavor of this recipe makes it hard to stop eating them!
- Minimal Ingredients. This recipe only needs two ingredients plus any spices you may choose to add.
Recipe Ingredients
Below is a quick overview of what you’ll need for this low carb side dish! Scroll down to the printable recipe card at the bottom of the page for exact measurements.
- Green Beans: use fresh (not canned) green beans
- Parmesan Cheese: a high-quality cheese makes a noticeable difference
- Spices: salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Smashed Green Beans
You will need a sheet pan, heavy bottom jar or glass, and steamer basket (if using a stovetop to steam the green beans) for this recipe. The printable recipe card at the bottom of the page includes the ingredients, amounts, and instructions.
Steam
First, get your oven preheating to 400 degrees F. While the oven is preheating, steam the green beans until they’re fork tender (about 3-5 minutes).
Smash the Green Beans


Generously coat the baking sheet with cooking oil. Now, sprinkle half the parmesan evenly across the pan. Next, you can add the green beans to the pan. Using a heavy bottomed glass or jar, smash the green beans. Then you will sprinkle the remaining parmesan across the top of the green beans.
Bake


Add salt and pepper to taste. Then you can bake the green beans for 15-20 minutes or until they become crispy and the cheese is golden!
Serve
These cheesy, crispy green beans go well with numerous main dish choices. Below are some pairings that would work well and keep the meal quick and simple.

Storage and Reheating Instructions
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Prior to storing, the green beans should be allowed to cool completely then placed in an airtight container. This recipe doesn’t freeze well.
You have a few different options for reheating smashed green beans. For the crispiest leftovers, toss them in the air fryer at 350 F for 2-4 minutes. If using the oven, reheat at 375 F for about 6-8 minutes. You can also microwave in 30-second increments until heated to your desired level.
Other Simple Side Dish Recipes

Smashed Green Beans
Ingredients
- 1 pound Green Beans
- 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese choose a high quality cheese
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Start by preheating oven to 400 degrees F. While oven is preheating, steam the green beans until they're fork tender (about 3-5 minutes). You can use a microwave or stovetop to steam the green beans.
- Thoroughly spray a nonstick baking sheet with cooking oil. Then sprinkle half the parmesan evenly across the pan. Now, evenly spread the green beans across the pan.
- Use a heavy bottomed glass or jar to carefully smash the green beans. Then sprinkle the remaining parmesan across the green beans. Add the salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake the green beans for 15-20 minutes until they become crispy and the cheese is golden.