Description
A timeless favorite, this classic green bean casserole is the ultimate comfort side dish. Creamy mushroom sauce coats tender green beans, topped with a golden, crispy layer of French fried onions. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or cozy weeknight dinners, it’s a dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to every table.
Ingredients
-
1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and halved
-
2 tablespoons butter
-
1 medium onion, finely chopped
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
-
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
-
1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
-
1 cup heavy cream
-
1 teaspoon salt
-
½ teaspoon black pepper
-
½ teaspoon paprika
-
1 can (6 ounces) French fried onions
-
Optional: ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
-
Blanch the green beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and immediately plunge into ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again and set aside.
-
Prepare the creamy mushroom sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
-
Cook the mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and become golden brown, about 5-6 minutes.
-
Make the sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir well to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the broth and heavy cream until smooth and thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce has a creamy consistency.
-
Combine green beans and sauce: Add the blanched green beans to the mushroom sauce and stir until evenly coated. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
-
Add toppings: Sprinkle the French fried onions evenly over the casserole. For an extra layer of flavor, you can also sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
-
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
-
Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle and make it easier to scoop.
Notes
-
Use fresh green beans for the best texture and flavor, but frozen beans can be used if thawed and drained.
-
Blanching the green beans ensures they stay crisp and vibrant.
-
Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate; add the topping just before baking to maintain its crunch.
-
For a richer flavor, sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the French fried onions before baking.
-
Adjust seasoning to taste; you can add herbs like thyme or parsley for added depth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes