Homemade Green Bean Casserole Recipe
If you’re looking for a comforting, classic side dish that brings vibrant color and rich flavors right to your table, this Homemade Green Bean Casserole Recipe is absolutely the way to go. Imagine tender green beans enveloped in a silky, savory mushroom sauce, topped with golden, crispy onions that add the perfect crunch every time. This casserole isn’t just an ordinary side—it’s the star that transforms any meal into a cozy celebration, perfect for holiday dinners or weekend family feasts. Each bite bursts with freshness and warmth, making it an absolute favorite to keep coming back to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this recipe is simple and rewarding. Each component plays a key role, from the fresh green beans providing crunch and color, to the creamy sauce enriching the dish with layers of flavor, and the crispy onions adding a delightful texture contrast.
- 1 ½ pounds fresh green beans: Choose bright, firm beans for the freshest bite and beautiful green hue.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics perfectly.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Offers a subtle sweetness that infuses the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a gentle pungency that lifts the entire casserole.
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced: Provide earthiness and moisture, key for that savory depth.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to a luscious consistency.
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth: The flavorful liquid base of the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half: Makes the sauce wonderfully smooth and rich.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances and amplifies all the savory notes.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right bit of warmth.
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional): A special touch that brings subtle aromatic warmth.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Gruyère cheese (optional): Melts into the sauce for extra creaminess and flavor complexity.
- 1 ½ cups crispy fried onions: The crowning glory that provides irresistible crunch and golden color.
How to Make Homemade Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Green Beans
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, and blanch the green beans for 4 to 5 minutes until they turn bright green and just turn tender. The blanching locks in the vibrant color and sweet, fresh flavor of the beans. Then, quickly chill them in an ice bath to stop the cooking. Drain thoroughly and set aside, so they are ready to absorb the delicious sauce later.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Mushrooms
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it softens and becomes fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, sautéing until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown nicely, which takes about 6 to 7 minutes. This step builds a beautifully savory foundation that makes this casserole so irresistible.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over the cooked vegetables, stirring to coat evenly. Let the flour cook for 1 to 2 minutes to eliminate the raw taste. Then slowly whisk in the broth and milk, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer while constantly stirring. This process thickens the sauce into a smooth, velvety texture. Season with salt, pepper, and a hint of nutmeg if you’re using it—this subtle spice adds a lovely warmth and complexity.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the blanched green beans and cheese, if you want to include it. Transfer everything into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Evenly top the casserole with the crispy fried onions, which will bake to a golden, crunchy perfection. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is beautifully browned. Your kitchen will instantly fill with that comforting, familiar aroma.
How to Serve Homemade Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a fresh pop of color and a hint of brightness. For some added zest, a light squeeze of lemon juice right before serving can cut through the richness beautifully, making each mouthful even more refreshing.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey, baked ham, or a savory pot roast, complementing their hearty flavors. Serving alongside creamy mashed potatoes or warm dinner rolls makes your meal even more comforting and complete.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, try serving the casserole in individual ramekins topped with fried onions and a sprinkle of grated cheese. You can also mix in toasted almonds or pecans for an unexpected crunch layer beneath the onion topping, adding a delightful nutty twist to your Homemade Green Bean Casserole Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, cover them tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors intensify as it rests, making for an even tastier next-day meal.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Cool completely, then cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to add extra crispy onions fresh after reheating to keep that satisfying crunch.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until warmed through. To keep the topping crispy, consider reheating uncovered or adding more fried onions on top before serving.
FAQs
Can I use canned or frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned or frozen green beans if fresh aren’t available. Just be sure to drain canned beans well and thaw frozen beans completely, then adjust cooking times to avoid overcooking, so they stay tender yet crisp in your Homemade Green Bean Casserole Recipe.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and either omit the cheese or choose a plant-based cheese alternative. This way, your casserole remains just as creamy and flavorful while fitting vegetarian diets perfectly.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready, simply bake it fresh for the full bubbly, golden result that everyone loves.
How do I make the crispy onion topping from scratch?
You can make your own crispy onions by thinly slicing onions, tossing them in a bit of flour, salt, and pepper, and frying them until golden brown. This homemade touch elevates the texture and flavor, making your Homemade Green Bean Casserole Recipe truly special.
What cheese works best in this casserole?
Cheddar adds a sharp, comforting flavor, while Gruyère melts beautifully with a subtle nuttiness—both are excellent choices. You can omit the cheese altogether if you prefer a lighter or dairy-free version.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly heartwarming about a well-made Homemade Green Bean Casserole Recipe that brings generations and friends together around the table. It’s creamy, crunchy, comforting, and so easy to prepare with simple ingredients that combine into a spectacular dish. Whether you’re crafting a holiday meal or just craving a cozy side, this casserole is sure to become one of your most loved recipes. Go ahead, gather your ingredients and treat yourself to this delicious homemade classic—you won’t regret it!
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Homemade Green Bean Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Homemade Green Bean Casserole is a classic American holiday side dish featuring fresh green beans in a creamy mushroom sauce, topped with crispy fried onions for a perfect balance of textures and flavors. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized with cheese and vegetable or chicken broth for either vegetarian or traditional versions.
Ingredients
Green Beans
- 1 ½ pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Gruyère cheese (optional)
Topping
- 1 ½ cups crispy fried onions
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole later.
- Blanch Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and blanch for 4–5 minutes until they turn bright green and become slightly tender. Drain, then immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain again and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms and sauté until the mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown, about 6–7 minutes.
- Make Sauce Base: Sprinkle the flour over the cooked vegetables and stir to coat evenly. Cook the flour for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw taste.
- Add Liquids and Thicken: Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth and the milk or half-and-half. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly, until it thickens, about 3–4 minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg if using.
- Combine Ingredients: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the blanched green beans and shredded cheese if using, mixing everything thoroughly.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the green bean and sauce mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Evenly top with crispy fried onions.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let it cool slightly. Serve warm as a delicious side dish for your meal.
Notes
- You can make this casserole a day ahead—just cover and refrigerate before baking to save time on the day of serving.
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip the cheese or substitute it with a plant-based cheese option.
- To add extra flavor, feel free to use Gruyère cheese for a richer taste or cheddar for a sharper bite.
- If you prefer a crispier topping, add additional crispy fried onions just before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
