I’ve always loved the cozy warmth of green bean casserole, especially during the holidays. It’s a classic dish that brings back wonderful memories of family gatherings and delicious food. Made with tender green beans, sautéed mushrooms, and a creamy sauce, this casserole is an expected favorite at my table, combining flavors and textures that simply delight the palate. Plus, it’s straightforward to whip up, making it perfect for busy days or festive occasions.
This ultimate comfort food is all about that creamy texture and crispy topping. The savory mix of sautéed mushrooms and onions infuses the green beans with a depth of flavor, while the crispy fried onions on top give it that satisfying crunch we all crave. It’s ideal for anyone looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a heartwarming dish on a quiet evening.
Why you’ll love green bean casserole
- Quick to prepare and bake.
- Rich, savory flavor with a crunchy topping.
- A great make-ahead option for gatherings.
- Minimal cleanup with one baking dish.
- Vegetarian-friendly, using simple ingredients.
What ingredients do I need for green bean casserole?
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup chopped mushrooms
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup crispy fried onions
Ingredient notes & swaps:
- Fresh Green Beans: Can be substituted with frozen green beans if necessary.
- Creaminess: Use a plant-based milk for a dairy-free option.
- Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian alternative.
How do I make green bean casserole step-by-step?
It’s easy to create a delicious green bean casserole in just a few steps. Start by sautéing your aromatics, mix everything together, and let the oven do the work. You’ll have a comforting dish in no time.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add mushrooms, onion, and garlic; sauté until softened.
- In a bowl, mix together broth, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper.
- In a large baking dish, combine green beans, sautéed mixture, and the broth mixture.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, then top with crispy fried onions. Bake for an additional 10 minutes or until golden brown.
Pro Tip: To enhance the flavors, let the sautéed vegetables cool slightly before adding them to the casserole mixture to keep the sauce from separating.
Visual doneness cues: Look for bubbling edges and a golden-brown crust on top as signs that it’s ready.
How should I serve it?
Green bean casserole shines as a side dish alongside roasted meats, or it can be enjoyed on its own with some crusty bread. Feel free to sprinkle additional crispy fried onions or a bit of fresh parsley for an elegant touch on top.
Can I make it ahead? How do I store and reheat it?
Yes, you can prepare green bean casserole a day in advance! Simply assemble the dish, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it into the oven until heated through. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-5 days—simply reheat in the oven or microwave.
How do I fix common issues?
- If it’s dry: Add a splash more milk to the casserole before heating.
- Bland flavor: Amp up the seasoning with additional black pepper or a touch of garlic powder.
- Soggy texture: Avoid overcooking the green beans initially; they should still have a bit of crunch.
What variations can I try?
Experimenting with green bean casserole can be fun! Try adding cooked bacon or diced ham for a smoky flavor, or toss in some grated cheese for extra creaminess. You could also include other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added color and taste.
FAQs
Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes! Frozen green beans work well too; just make sure to thaw and drain them before incorporating them into the casserole.
Is it safe to freeze green bean casserole?
Freezing is possible, but for best texture, freeze before baking and bake from frozen when ready to enjoy.
What should I do if the casserole bubbles over?
If you notice overflow, consider placing a baking sheet under the casserole dish while it’s baking to catch drips and prevent messes.
Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add mushrooms, onion, and garlic; sauté until softened.
- In a bowl, mix together broth, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper.
- In a large baking dish, combine green beans, sautéed mixture, and the broth mixture.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, then top with crispy fried onions.
- Bake for an additional 10 minutes or until golden brown.