Green bean casserole is a beloved side dish that graces many tables during family gatherings, holiday celebrations, and cozy weeknight dinners. With its creamy mushroom sauce, tender green beans, and crispy fried onion topping, it strikes a perfect balance between comfort food and classic flavor.
This recipe uses fresh ingredients for a from-scratch version that elevates the traditional dish while still delivering the familiar taste everyone loves. Here’s a detailed guide on how to make this green bean casserole for six servings.
1. Green Bean Casserole Recipe Ingredients
To create a delicious and hearty green bean casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs fresh green beans, trimmed and cut in half
- 2 tbsp canola oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 8 oz baby bella mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 5 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk, room temperature
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
- 6 oz French’s fried onions, divided (half for the casserole and half for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the trimmed green beans and blanch them for about 4-5 minutes, just until they turn bright green and begin to soften. Immediately transfer the beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons of canola oil. Add the diced yellow onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 5-6 minutes, allowing them to release their moisture and brown slightly. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom and onion mixture. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the whole milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add the heavy whipping cream and continue to stir as the mixture thickens. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once the sauce reaches a creamy consistency, season with salt and fresh cracked black pepper to taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched green beans with the creamy mushroom sauce. Stir in half of the French’s fried onions. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Step 5: Bake and Finish
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s hot and bubbling. Remove from the oven, sprinkle the remaining fried onions evenly over the top, and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to crisp up the topping.
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm and enjoy!
2. Tips for Perfect Green Bean Casserole
Use fresh green beans for the best texture
Canned or frozen beans can work in a pinch, but fresh beans provide a crunchier, more vibrant bite.
Don’t skip the ice bath after blanching
This step ensures the green beans stay bright green and don’t overcook during baking.
Cook the flour long enough in the skillet
This prevents a pasty flavor and helps develop a rich, nutty base for the cream sauce.
Whisk continuously while adding milk
This helps create a smooth, lump-free sauce that coats the green beans evenly.
Add the fried onions at the right time
Mixing some into the casserole gives extra flavor, while reserving some for the topping adds a satisfying crunch.
3. Variations & Substitutions
Make it vegetarian-friendly
Simply use plant-based milk and cream alternatives, and ensure your fried onions are free of animal byproducts.
Add protein for a heartier dish
Stir in cooked, diced chicken or crispy bacon to transform this casserole into a full meal.
Use different mushrooms
Swap the baby bella mushrooms for cremini, shiitake, or even wild mushrooms to add unique earthy flavors.
Try a cheese twist
Mix in shredded gruyère, cheddar, or parmesan to the sauce for a rich, cheesy variation.
Make it gluten-free
Substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, and use certified gluten-free fried onions.
4. How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Store any leftover green bean casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave, covered loosely with a microwave-safe lid or wrap, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
For a crispier texture, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes. If the topping has softened, you can add a fresh layer of fried onions before reheating to restore the crunch.
Green bean casserole is a timeless favorite that warms the soul and brings people together. With its creamy homemade sauce, fresh vegetables, and savory onion topping, this dish is sure to become a staple at your table. Whether it’s for a festive holiday meal or a comforting weeknight dinner, this green bean casserole delivers on flavor, texture, and nostalgia.
