Homemade Green Bean Casserole

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both comforting and crowd-pleasing, let me introduce you to my Homemade Green Bean Casserole! This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it transforms the classic dish into something absolutely delightful and flavorful. Unlike many versions that rely on canned ingredients, this casserole features a creamy mushroom sauce made from scratch, tender green beans, and crispy fried shallots that add the perfect crunch. It’s not just for holidays; it’s an excellent choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings too!

The best part? You can whip up this casserole with simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Trust me, once you try this version of Homemade Green Bean Casserole, it will become a staple at your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously homemade: The scratch-made creamy mushroom sauce is packed with flavor—no canned stuff here!
• Perfect texture: Tender green beans combined with crispy shallots create a wonderful contrast that’s simply irresistible.
• Family-friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it a great addition to any meal.
• Make-ahead option: Prepare it in advance and bake just before serving for easy entertaining.
• Versatile: It pairs beautifully with holiday mains or can brighten up any weeknight dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make our Homemade Green Bean Casserole shine! You’ll find everything you need right here:

For the Crispy Shallots

• 4 medium shallots (halved lengthwise & then sliced thinly into half moons)
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• Creole Cajun Seasoning (homemade or store-bought or seasoned salt, to taste)

For the Casserole

• 24 ounces fresh green beans (ends trimmed)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 8 ounces baby bella mushrooms (sliced)
• 1 tablespoon garlic (minced or paste)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard (smooth or whole grain)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (or half and half)
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (divided)

Variations

This Homemade Green Bean Casserole is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand:

• Add protein: Stir in some cooked chicken or turkey for a heartier dish.
• Make it vegan: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a plant-based twist.
• Incorporate other veggies: Throw in some steamed broccoli or cauliflower florets for extra nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños if you like a kick!

How to Make Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Shallots

Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the sliced shallots. Fry them until they turn golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial because those crispy shallots will be the perfect topping that adds texture and flavor to your casserole!

Step 2: Cook the Green Beans

In another pot of boiling water, blanch the trimmed green beans for about 3-4 minutes until they’re bright green but still crisp. Immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop cooking. This keeps them vibrant and crunchy, which is key for our casserole!

Step 3: Make the Mushroom Sauce

In the same skillet used for frying shallots, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and sauté until they are soft and browned. Then stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute. Adding garlic at this stage enhances its flavor without burning—it’s all about balance!

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Sprinkle in the flour while stirring constantly to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth. Add lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer until thickened—this creamy mushroom sauce will be the heart of your casserole!

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Once your sauce has thickened nicely, fold in the blanched green beans along with half of the grated parmesan cheese. Mix well so every bean gets coated in that luscious sauce.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Transfer your mixture into a greased baking dish and top with the remaining parmesan cheese and those beautiful crispy shallots we made earlier. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

And there you have it—a comforting Homemade Green Bean Casserole that’s sure to impress everyone at your table! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Making your own green bean casserole is not only rewarding, but it also allows you to control the flavors and textures in a way that pre-packaged versions just can’t match!

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh green beans and mushrooms enhances the dish’s flavor and texture. Fresh vegetables provide a vibrant taste and a satisfying crunch that frozen or canned options often lack.

• Don’t Rush the Shallots: Frying shallots to a perfect golden brown can take some time, but it’s worth it! This step adds a delightful crunch and rich flavor to your casserole, making each bite even more enjoyable.

• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Start with smaller amounts of spices and seasonings, then adjust as you go. Everyone’s palate is different, and this allows you to personalize the dish to suit your taste buds.

• Experiment with Cheese: While Parmesan is delicious, consider mixing in other cheeses like Gruyère or cheddar for added depth. Each cheese brings its unique flavor profile that can elevate the richness of the casserole.

• Make It Ahead of Time: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This makes it a convenient option for holidays or busy weeknights!

How to Serve Homemade Green Bean Casserole

This homemade green bean casserole is not only delicious but also visually appealing when served right. Here are some ideas on how to present this comforting dish for any occasion.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme on top adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the rich flavors.
• Lemon Zest: Grating a little lemon zest over the top before serving gives a zesty kick that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the savory notes of the casserole, creating a balanced plate that’s both hearty and wholesome.
• Quinoa Salad: A light, refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a great contrast in textures while adding nutritional value.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic are always a crowd-pleaser and pair wonderfully with the richness of the green bean casserole.
• Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce brings brightness and acidity, cutting through the creaminess of the dish while adding an extra layer of flavor.

Enjoy crafting your Homemade Green Bean Casserole; it’s sure to become a cherished recipe you’ll return to again and again!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Homemade Green Bean Casserole is not only a delicious side dish but also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it ahead of time, making your holiday planning or busy weeknights a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate.
• Enjoy refrigerated leftovers within 3-4 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the casserole cool entirely.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• This casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover with foil and reheat for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through. Remove the foil in the last few minutes for a crispy top!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

Can I make a Homemade Green Bean Casserole without dairy?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy whipping cream with a non-dairy milk such as almond milk or coconut cream, and use plant-based butter instead of regular butter for a dairy-free version.

How do I prevent my green beans from being soggy in my Homemade Green Bean Casserole?

To keep your green beans tender yet crisp, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before adding them to the casserole. This technique helps maintain their vibrant color and crunch!

Can I use frozen green beans in this Homemade Green Bean Casserole?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans! Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess moisture before mixing them into the casserole.

What can I serve with my Homemade Green Bean Casserole?

This flavorful casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey, baked chicken, or even a hearty veggie loaf. It’s versatile enough to complement various mains!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this Homemade Green Bean Casserole! It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table. Whether it’s for a festive gathering or just a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your experiences; I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!

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