Name: Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb fresh green beans, rinsed, trimmed and halved; 8 ounces cremini or white mushrooms, sliced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, finely grated; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 2 tablespoons flour; 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth; 2 cups fried onions, divided; 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs

Jump to Recipe

If you’re searching for a comforting, creamy dish that sings of nostalgia and holiday charm, this Green Bean Casserole recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a perfect harmony of tender green beans, rich mushroom sauce, and that irresistible crispy onion topping you will crave every time. Whether it’s a festive feast or a simple weeknight dinner, this Green Bean Casserole brings warmth, flavor, and a touch of elegance to your table with each delicious bite.

Green Bean Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Green Bean Casserole is delightfully simple, but each component plays a vital role. From fresh green beans that bring vibrant color and crunch to the creamy mushroom sauce that wraps everything in comfort, these ingredients come together to create a dish that’s both approachable and extraordinary.

1 lb fresh green beans: Provides that fresh, crisp texture and bright flavor that forms the base of the casserole.
3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds a rich, silky mouthfeel, used for cooking and topping.
8 ounces cremini or white mushrooms: Offer earthy depth and umami essential for the creamy sauce.
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly without overpowering.
1/4 teaspoon pepper: Adds just a touch of warmth and balance.
3 garlic cloves (minced): Infuse the sauce with a subtle aromatic lift that’s simply irresistible.
2 tablespoons flour: The thickening agent that gives the sauce a luscious, velvety consistency.
1 cup vegetable or chicken broth: Builds the savory foundation of the sauce, adaptable to your preference.
1 cup heavy cream: Brings creamy richness that turns the sauce into a luscious blanket for the green beans.
2 cups fried onions (divided): Provide that iconic crispy topping and some added crunch in the casserole base.
1/4 cup panko bread crumbs: Toasted for an extra golden and crunchy finish.
1/4 cup parmesan cheese (finely grated): Adds a salty, nutty, savory punch to elevate the topping even more.

How to Make Green Bean Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and greasing a 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Then, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the fresh green beans for 3 to 4 minutes. This step softens them just enough while keeping their vibrant color and satisfying crunch. Immediately transfer them to ice water to stop the cooking process, then drain well and set aside to dry on a towel. This process ensures your green beans stay bright and fresh throughout the casserole.

Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms and Garlic

Next, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms, kosher salt, and pepper, cooking them for about five minutes until they release their moisture and start to brown slightly. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another two minutes for a punch of fragrant flavor that melds beautifully with the earthiness of the mushrooms.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir well to coat everything evenly. Slowly pour in your vegetable or chicken broth, letting it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes — this will help thicken the sauce. Lower the heat to medium-low and add the heavy cream, stirring frequently. Allow the sauce to thicken to a velvety consistency over 5 to 10 minutes, making sure it’s smooth and creamy — this is the soul of your Green Bean Casserole.

Step 4: Combine and Assemble

Remove the sauce from heat and gently fold in the blanched green beans and one cup of the fried onions. This mixture is what will bring the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and fresh textures. Pour everything into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly, setting the stage for the delicious topping.

Step 5: Prepare the Crispy Topping

In a medium skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the panko breadcrumbs and toast them for 3 to 4 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, then sprinkle this over the casserole along with the remaining fried onions and the finely grated parmesan cheese. This topping will bake into a crispy, cheesy crust that is utterly divine.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake the assembled Green Bean Casserole uncovered for about 20 minutes at 375 degrees Fahrenheit. You want the sauce bubbling gently along the edges and the topping a deep, appetizing golden. This finishing step melds all the flavors and textures together, making it almost impossible to resist digging in right out of the oven.

How to Serve Green Bean Casserole

Garnishes

Adding fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives on top right after baking instantly brightens the dish and adds an extra layer of color and freshness. For an unexpected twist, a scatter of toasted almonds or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise, turning your Green Bean Casserole into a stunning centerpiece.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with classic roasted turkey or baked ham, especially during holiday gatherings. For a lighter meal, add a crisp green salad and crusty bread to round out the plate. The creamy, crispy Green Bean Casserole acts as a rich complement, balancing out more straightforward or simply prepared mains.

Creative Ways to Present

Instead of a traditional casserole dish, try making individual servings in ramekins for a charming, personalized touch — perfect for dinner parties. Layering the green beans and sauce in transparent glass baking dishes also creates a visually stunning effect, showing off the beautiful textures and colors of this classic. You can even transform leftovers into a hearty pot pie filling or a delightful pasta sauce, proving how versatile this Green Bean Casserole can be.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover your Green Bean Casserole tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. Leftovers will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making for an excellent next-day meal or a reliable fridge standby when you’re short on time.

Freezing

You can freeze the casserole before baking or after it has cooled following baking. Wrap it tightly with foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or baking again.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes, to maintain that crispy topping. Microwaving is quicker but might soften the topping; a brief broil at the end can restore some crunch if needed.

FAQs

Can I use canned green beans instead of fresh?

While fresh green beans offer the best flavor and texture for this casserole, you can use canned beans in a pinch. Just be sure to drain them well and reduce blanching time to avoid mushiness.

What can I substitute for fried onions?

If you want to go homemade or healthier, crispy baked shallots or toasted panko with a sprinkle of seasoning work beautifully as a crunchy topping alternative.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

This recipe is vegetarian-friendly as written if you choose vegetable broth. Using chicken broth will make it non-vegetarian, so swap accordingly based on your dietary preferences.

Can I make this casserole vegan?

Yes! Use vegan butter, a plant-based cream substitute, and ensure your broth is vegetable-based. For the topping, replace parmesan with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese options.

How far in advance can I prepare this casserole?

You can prepare the casserole fully assembled but unbaked the day before. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and bake fresh when ready to serve for best results.

Final Thoughts

This Green Bean Casserole is more than just a side dish — it’s a classic comfort food that carries with it warmth, flavor, and a little bit of magic. Whether it’s holiday season or any day you crave something cozy and delicious, this recipe is going to become a favorite you reach for again and again. Give it a try, and I promise it will bring a smile to your dinner table and a happy sigh from everyone who tastes it.

Green Bean Casserole Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 18 reviews

Author: Naomi
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A classic and creamy Green Bean Casserole featuring fresh green beans, sautéed mushrooms, a rich garlic cream sauce, and topped with crispy fried onions, toasted panko breadcrumbs, and parmesan cheese. Perfectly baked to a bubbly finish, this comforting side dish is ideal for holiday dinners or any family meal.

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F and grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Blanch Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and blanch for 3 to 4 minutes until just tender. Drain and immediately immerse into ice water to halt cooking. Drain once more and pat dry on a towel. Set aside.
Sauté Mushrooms and Garlic: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
Create the Sauce: Sprinkle flour over the mushrooms and stir until well combined to form a roux. Gradually pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, stirring continuously. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. Reduce heat to medium-low, add heavy cream, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens, about 5 to 10 minutes.
Combine and Transfer: Remove from heat and fold in the blanched green beans and 1 cup of fried onions, mixing until they’re evenly coated with the sauce. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Prepare Topping: In a medium skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add panko bread crumbs and toast them for 3 to 4 minutes until golden. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Top and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining fried onions, toasted panko breadcrumbs, and grated parmesan cheese evenly over the casserole. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your creamy, crispy green bean casserole!

Notes

For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and ensure fried onions are vegetarian-friendly.
Fresh green beans yield the best texture; canned beans can be used but will alter the flavor and texture.
For extra flavor, add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the sauce (ensure Worcestershire sauce is vegetarian if needed).
To make ahead, prepare the casserole through step 5, refrigerate, then add topping and bake before serving.
Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking, Sautéing, Blanching
Cuisine: American