Green Beans Supreme

Directions

1. 1
   Heat beans thoroughly; drain well and set aside.
2. 2
   Melt 1 stick butter in a large skillet; add sliced onion and mushroom caps, sauteeing until tender.
3. 3
   While vegetables cook, heat milk thoroughly but do not allow it to approach the boiling point.
4. 4
   (Note: If it gets too hot and a film forms over the top, skim that off before adding the milk to the sauce.)
5. 5
   When vegetables are tender, add flour to skillet and stir until smooth.
6. 6
   Add warm milk to skillet in a slow stream, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
7. 7
   Add grated cheese and seasonings; simmer, stirring frequently, until cheese melts.
8. 8
   Add drained beans and sliced water chestnuts to the cheese sauce, stirring well to mix.
9. 9
   Pour mixture into a lightly-greased baking dish.
10. 10
    Top with breadcrumbs, and dot with thin slivers of butter.
11. 11
    Sprinkle chopped almonds over the casserole if desired.
12. 12
    Bake anywhere between 300 and 350 degrees until bubbly (approximately 20-35 minutes).