Pin Recipe A nostalgic creamy side dish featuring tender green beans savory mushrooms and crispy fried onions a classic for holiday feasts and family dinners.
This casserole brings back memories of family gatherings where we eagerly gathered around the table for a warm hearty meal the aroma of bubbling sauce and crispy onions signaling the start of another delicious tradition.
Ingredients
- Fresh Green Beans: 900 g (2 lb) trimmed and cut into 5 cm (2-inch) pieces or substitute with 900 g frozen cut green beans thawed and drained
- Unsalted Butter: 2 tbsp
- Cremini or Button Mushrooms: 250 g (9 oz) sliced
- Yellow Onion: 1 small finely chopped
- Garlic Cloves: 2 minced
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 tbsp
- Whole Milk: 240 ml (1 cup)
- Heavy Cream: 120 ml (½ cup)
- Low-Sodium Vegetable Broth: 120 ml (½ cup)
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Black Pepper: ½ tsp
- Ground Nutmeg: ½ tsp optional
- Crispy Fried Onions: 150 g (1½ cups) store-bought or homemade
Instructions
- Prep Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Blanch Beans:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add green beans and cook for 5 minutes until just tender but still bright green. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
- Cook Vegetables:
- In a large skillet over medium heat melt butter. Add mushrooms and cook for 5-6 minutes until tender and browned. Add onion and garlic stirring for another 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Make Sauce:
- Stir in flour and cook 1 minute stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in milk cream and broth. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened about 5 minutes. Season with salt pepper and nutmeg if using.
- Combine Beans and Sauce:
- Add the drained green beans to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
- Assemble:
- Transfer the mixture to a 2-liter (2-quart) baking dish. Sprinkle half of the crispy fried onions on top.
- Bake:
- Bake for 25 minutes until bubbling. Remove from oven top with remaining onions and bake for 5-7 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Serve:
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Pin Recipe My family looks forward to this casserole every holiday enjoying every bite and laughing together as the dish disappears before our eyes.
Make Ahead and Storing
Assemble the casserole up to step 6 and refrigerate for up to 24 hours covered. Simply add the fried onions and bake just before serving to keep everything deliciously crisp.
Cheesy Variation
For extra flavor stir 50 g grated sharp cheddar or Gruyère into the sauce before baking. The cheesy twist is always a hit with guests.
Serving Suggestions
This classic casserole pairs perfectly with roast turkey or chicken and serves as a standout vegetarian side for any festive table.
Pin Recipe This homestyle green bean casserole brings warmth and nostalgia to every gathering. Enjoy the creamy sauce crispy topping and the joy of sharing with loved ones.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen cut green beans can be used. Be sure to thaw and drain them well before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
- → What vegetables are used in this dish?
The main vegetables include green beans, cremini or button mushrooms, and yellow onions, which are sautéed to build flavor.
- → How do I get the topping crispy?
The topping of fried onions is baked twice: once during baking the casserole and again to crisp them golden on top.
- → Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can assemble it up to the point before adding the crispy onions, refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then add onions and bake before serving.
- → Are there suggested pairings for this dish?
This side pairs wonderfully with roast turkey or chicken, making it a great choice for holiday meals.