Homemade Green Bean Casserole Recipe
If you have ever thought of elevating the classic comfort of a holiday favorite, this Homemade Green Bean Casserole Recipe is the answer you’ve been waiting for. Bursting with fresh green beans that offer just the right snap and a creamy, savory mushroom sauce topped with irresistible crispy onions, this dish captures all the warmth and rich flavors that make green bean casserole memorable. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving, a family dinner, or simply to indulge in something cozy and delicious, this Homemade Green Bean Casserole Recipe will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The simplicity of these ingredients is what makes this Homemade Green Bean Casserole Recipe so approachable yet unforgettable. Each component plays a key role, from the fresh green beans adding vibrant color and crispness to the luxurious blend of mushrooms and cheese that delivers the comforting creamy texture you crave.
- 1 lb fresh green beans (trimmed and halved): Fresh is key here for that perfect snap and vibrant flavor that canned just can’t match.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps gently cook the vegetables to tender perfection.
- 1 small yellow onion (finely chopped): Provides a sweet, mellow base to the creamy sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with subtle warmth and depth of flavor.
- 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms (sliced): These bring an earthy, hearty flavor that makes the sauce wonderfully savory.
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour: The thickening agent that helps turn the sauce into a luscious coating for the beans.
- 1 cup whole milk: Gives the sauce a silky texture and creamy body without overpowering other flavors.
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth: Adds savory layers and helps balance the richness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Elevates the casserole with salty, nutty notes.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring everything into harmony.
- 1 1/2 cups crispy fried onions (divided): For that iconic crunch and golden finish that makes green bean casserole so irresistible.
How to Make Homemade Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fresh green beans and cook them for 4 to 5 minutes until they are tender-crisp. This step is essential because it ensures the green beans remain lively in color and texture after baking. After boiling, drain the beans and immediately rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside while you prepare the creamy sauce that makes this Homemade Green Bean Casserole Recipe truly special.
Step 2: Sauté Your Aromatics and Mushrooms
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped yellow onion and cook it for about 3 to 4 minutes until it softens and releases its sweetness. Next, toss in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook everything together for 6 to 8 minutes until the mushrooms brown nicely and most of their moisture cooks off. This step builds the foundation of the casserole’s deep, savory flavor.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir for about a minute. This gentle cooking of the flour removes any raw taste and starts thickening the sauce. Gradually add the milk and low-sodium broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens to a silky, creamy consistency. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, then season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine and Assemble the Casserole
Gently fold the blanched green beans and half of the crispy fried onions into the creamy mushroom sauce. This blend ensures an evenly coated, flavorful mixture ready for baking. Transfer everything to a lightly greased 9×9-inch baking dish, and evenly sprinkle the remaining crispy fried onions on top to guarantee that signature golden, crunchy topping.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake the casserole uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes. You’re looking for that bubbly warmth from beneath and a perfectly golden crust on top. Once baked, this dish is ready to serve and impress, bringing that quintessential comfort side to your table.
How to Serve Homemade Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
While the crispy fried onion topping steals the show, you can add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a little extra Parmesan cheese just before serving to add a pop of color and burst of flavor. These simple garnishes elevate the presentation without overshadowing the casserole’s homey charm.
Side Dishes
This Homemade Green Bean Casserole Recipe pairs beautifully with roasted turkey or baked ham, making it a perfect centerpiece for holiday meals. For a full, festive plate, consider mashed potatoes, buttery dinner rolls, or a fresh cranberry sauce to add sweet and tart contrasts.
Creative Ways to Present
Love to impress guests? Serve this casserole in individual ramekins for personal servings or layer it in a clear glass casserole dish so everyone can admire the creamy layers and caramelized topping before digging in. Either way, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that sparks conversation and happy appetites.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from this Homemade Green Bean Casserole Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The casserole keeps its creamy texture well, though the crispy onion topping may soften slightly, which is easy to refresh by reheating under a broiler for a minute or two.
Freezing
This casserole freezes nicely if you prepare it fully assembled but before baking. Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and a layer of aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating
Reheat your green bean casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15 minutes. To restore that crunchy topping, switch to broil for the last 2 or 3 minutes—just watch carefully so it doesn’t burn. This method keeps your casserole tasting freshly baked and just as delicious.
FAQs
Can I use canned green beans instead of fresh for this Homemade Green Bean Casserole Recipe?
While fresh green beans give the best texture and flavor, you can substitute canned green beans if needed. Just be sure to drain them well and reduce the cooking time as canned beans are already cooked and softer.
Is there a vegetarian option for the broth in this recipe?
Absolutely! Use a low-sodium vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep the dish vegetarian without compromising on the savory depth of flavor.
What if I don’t have crispy fried onions on hand? Can I make my own?
Yes! You can make your own by thinly slicing onions, tossing them in flour and seasoning, then frying or baking them until golden and crisp. This adds a wonderful homemade touch and crunch to your casserole.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Definitely. You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This makes your meal prep easier and saves time on the day of serving.
What can I add to make this casserole extra creamy or rich?
For a richer sauce, replace some or all of the milk with half-and-half or even a splash of heavy cream. This adjustment makes the casserole decadently creamy and extra comforting.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about making a classic like this Homemade Green Bean Casserole Recipe with fresh ingredients and a little extra love. It shines as a side dish for holiday meals and transforms any dinner into a celebration of comfort food. I can’t wait for you to try it, share it with loved ones, and watch it become a go-to favorite in your kitchen, just like it is in mine.
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Homemade Green Bean Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This homemade green bean casserole is a classic American holiday side dish featuring tender green beans in a creamy mushroom sauce, topped with crispy fried onions for a satisfying crunch. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any festive gathering, this recipe delivers rich, comforting flavors with a homemade touch.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 lb fresh green beans (trimmed and halved)
- 1 small yellow onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms (sliced)
Sauce
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Topping
- 1 1/2 cups crispy fried onions (divided)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×9-inch or similar baking dish to prevent sticking and prepare for baking.
- Blanch Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the trimmed and halved green beans and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until they are just tender-crisp. Drain the green beans and immediately rinse them under cold water to stop cooking, then set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms and cook for another 6 to 8 minutes, until the mushrooms are browned and most of their moisture has evaporated.
- Make the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the cooked vegetables and stir for one minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the milk and low-sodium broth while stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and black pepper to your preference.
- Combine and Transfer: Fold the blanched green beans and half of the crispy fried onions into the creamy mushroom sauce mixture. Transfer everything evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Add Topping and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining crispy fried onions over the top of the casserole. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the dish is bubbly and the onions on top are golden brown and crispy.
Notes
- You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, refrigerate it, and bake it just before serving to save time on busy days.
- For extra richness and creaminess, substitute half-and-half for the whole milk in the sauce.
- To keep the crispy onions extra crunchy, add them just before baking rather than mixing them all into the sauce.
- Use low-sodium broth to better control the salt content in the casserole.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
