Gratin de Haricots Verts

Ingredients

• Haricots verts (French green beans) (1 pound, trimmed)
• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)
• Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons)
• All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons)
• Milk (1 cup)
• Gruyere cheese (1 cup, grated)
• Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated)
• Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the haricots verts and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they are crisp-tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to create a roux.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir as the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the grated Gruyere cheese until it melts and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Place the cooked haricots verts in a baking dish and pour the cheese sauce over them. Gently mix to coat the beans evenly.
7. In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the beans.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving hot as a delightful side dish.