Quick & Easy Garlic Parmesan Green Bean Casserole Cups – The Perfect Holiday Appetizer

These Garlic Parmesan Green Bean Casserole Cups take a beloved holiday classic and give it a fun, bite-sized twist. Imagine everything you love about creamy green bean casserole the rich sauce, tender green beans, and crispy onions all tucked into buttery puff pastry cups for the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer.

They’re easy to make, elegant enough for holiday parties, and so flavorful that guests will be reaching for seconds before they even realize how simple they are. With a creamy garlic Parmesan filling and a flaky golden crust, these cups are a new take on comfort food that’s both nostalgic and fresh.

What Are Garlic Parmesan Green Bean Casserole Cups

These casserole cups combine the traditional green bean casserole flavors with a modern appetizer presentation. Instead of serving the dish in a casserole dish, puff pastry sheets are baked in muffin tins to form crisp, golden cups. Each one is filled with a savory, creamy mixture of sautéed garlic, green beans, Parmesan cheese, and cream, then topped with crispy fried onions.

The result is a perfectly portioned, handheld version of your favorite holiday side. They’re warm, rich, and satisfying but with a light, flaky texture that makes them feel extra special.

this Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers everything you love about classic green bean casserole in a form that’s convenient and fun to serve. These little cups are easy to make, easy to eat, and always a hit at gatherings. You’ll love how they:

• Use store-bought puff pastry for an effortless shortcut
• Can be made ahead and reheated before serving
• Are perfect for parties, brunches, and holiday buffets
• Have a creamy, cheesy, garlicky filling that pairs perfectly with the crisp pastry

They’re beautiful on the table and even better on your plate. These bite-sized casseroles are perfect for holiday entertaining, whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive occasion.

How Do They Taste

Each bite of these casserole cups is buttery, cheesy, and packed with flavor. The puff pastry adds light, crisp layers that balance the creamy garlic Parmesan filling. The green beans bring freshness and color, while the fried onions add crunch and a touch of saltiness.

The sauce is smooth and savory with hints of garlic and nutty Parmesan, creating a perfect contrast with the crisp texture of the pastry. They’re comforting like the traditional casserole but more refined and snackable.

Health & Ingredient Benefits

Green beans are loaded with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, adding a healthy touch to this indulgent appetizer. Using fresh or steamed green beans keeps the dish light and vibrant. The puff pastry gives a flaky base without needing heavy doughs, and Parmesan provides rich flavor with less cheese than traditional casseroles.

These can also be customized to include lower-fat ingredients or dairy-free options for different dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cups:

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 2 cups green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ cup crispy fried onions (plus more for topping)
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Tools You’ll Need

• Muffin tin (12-cup)
• Knife and cutting board
• Medium saucepan or skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Pastry brush (optional)

Optional Substitutions & Additions

• Dairy-free: Use coconut cream and dairy-free Parmesan-style cheese.
• Add protein: Stir in cooked bacon or diced ham.
• Cheese lovers: Add shredded mozzarella or Gruyère for extra richness.
• Herbs: Sprinkle thyme, rosemary, or chives into the filling.
• Crispy topping: Add breadcrumbs or panko for even more crunch.

How to Make

1. Preheat oven: Set oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin.
2. Prepare puff pastry: Cut puff pastry into 12 equal squares. Gently press each square into a muffin cup to form little pastry shells. Use a fork to prick the bottoms.
3. Parbake: Bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
4. Blanch green beans: Boil green beans for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain and rinse under cold water.
5. Make the sauce: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in cream, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Cook until slightly thickened, about 3 minutes.
6. Combine filling: Stir in green beans and crispy fried onions until coated.
7. Fill the cups: Spoon the mixture evenly into each puff pastry shell. Top with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and crispy onions.
8. Bake again: Return to the oven for 8–10 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
9. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

What to Serve With

These bite-sized green bean casserole cups pair beautifully with roasted meats, holiday mains, or any buffet spread. Serve them alongside turkey, ham, or prime rib, or as part of an appetizer tray with sliders, deviled eggs, or stuffed mushrooms.

They also make a great side dish alternative for those who want to skip the classic casserole dish without losing flavor or tradition.

Why They’re Perfect for Holidays

These Garlic Parmesan Green Bean Casserole Cups are made for entertaining. They’re simple, elegant, and easy to serve. Because they’re portioned individually, there’s no need for scooping or serving utensils — guests can simply grab and enjoy.

They also hold up well for potlucks and buffets since the puff pastry stays crisp longer than most casseroles.

Tips for Success

• Keep the puff pastry cold until baking so it puffs up beautifully.
• Don’t overfill the cups; a tablespoon or two of filling per cup is perfect.
• Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
• Let them cool slightly before serving for easier handling.
• Reheat in the oven, not the microwave, to keep them crisp.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overbaking the pastry: It can become too dry; bake just until golden.
• Too much sauce: Keep the filling thick so it doesn’t make the cups soggy.
• Filling too early: Fill the pastry right before baking to maintain texture.
• Skipping salt: The balance of seasoning is key to flavor.

How to Store & Reheat

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 8–10 minutes until warm and crisp. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pastry soggy.

If making ahead, prepare the filling and pastry separately. Assemble and bake just before serving for the freshest texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned green beans?
Fresh or frozen are best for texture, but canned can work if drained very well.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the filling and pastry cups separately, then assemble and bake right before serving.

Can I freeze them?
You can freeze the unbaked cups for up to a month. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes of baking time.

Can I use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry?
Yes, but layer several sheets brushed with butter for structure.

Nutritional Info (approximate per cup)

Calories: 160 | Fat: 11g | Carbs: 11g | Protein: 4g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 160mg

Conclusion

These Quick & Easy Garlic Parmesan Green Bean Casserole Cups are everything you love about classic green bean casserole in a beautiful, bite-sized form. Flaky, creamy, cheesy, and crunchy, they’re a festive and flavorful addition to any holiday spread.

With minimal prep and just a handful of ingredients, you can create an elegant appetizer that tastes homemade and looks stunning on your table. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any cozy get-together, these little cups are sure to become a holiday favorite.

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November 4, 2025 by Melissa