Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Indulge in the timeless delight of this Homemade Green Bean Casserole, a dish that brings together tender green beans enveloped in a rich, creamy mushroom sauce, all crowned with crispy fried shallots. This casserole elevates a classic favorite by incorporating fresh ingredients and scratch-made components, ensuring a depth of flavor that surpasses the traditional canned versions. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a comforting side dish to any meal, this recipe offers a harmonious

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 4 medium shallots, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced into half-moons
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• Creole Cajun seasoning or seasoned salt, to taste
• 24 ounces fresh green beans, ends trimmed
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 8 ounces baby bella mushrooms, sliced
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup heavy whipping cream
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided

Directions:

1. Prepare the Fried Shallots:
   • In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the vegetable oil and sliced shallots simultaneously. Cook, stirring often, for about 15-20 minutes until the shallots are golden brown. If browning too quickly, reduce the heat as needed.
   • Using a slotted spoon, transfer the crispy shallots to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Season immediately with Creole Cajun seasoning or seasoned salt to taste. Set aside.
   • Strain the remaining oil through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any shallot debris. Reserve the shallot-infused oil for future use.
2. Blanch the Green Beans:
   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the trimmed green beans and cook for 3 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender.
   • Immediately drain the green beans and transfer them to a bowl filled with ice water to halt the cooking process. Once cooled, drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Creamy Mushroom Sauce:
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic; sauté for 3-4 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and lightly browned.
   • Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the mushroom mixture, stirring continuously until the flour is fully incorporated.
   • Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine and scraping up any browned bits from the skillet.
   • Stir in the fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), ground nutmeg, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
   • Add the heavy whipping cream and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth, about 1-2 minutes.
4. Assemble and Bake:
   • In a 9×13-inch (or similar size) oven-safe casserole dish, combine the blanched green beans and the creamy mushroom sauce, tossing to ensure the green beans are evenly coated.
   • Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top of the green bean mixture.
   • Transfer the casserole to the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes.
   • Remove from the oven, stir gently, and evenly distribute the prepared crispy shallots over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 7-10 minutes until the shallots are crispy and the casserole is bubbly.
5. Serve:
   • Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this classic side dish hot.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes

Kcal: Approximately 220 kcal per serving | Servings: 8 servings

Homemade Green Bean Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic Reinvented

Green bean casserole is a beloved staple at holiday gatherings, particularly in the United States, where it has become synonymous with Thanksgiving feasts. Originating in the 1950s, this dish was initially developed by the Campbell Soup Company as a way to promote their Cream of Mushroom Soup. Its simplicity and hearty flavors quickly turned it into a household favorite. Over the years, however, the recipe has been modernized to emphasize fresh, wholesome ingredients without sacrificing its nostalgic appeal.

The History Behind Green Bean Casserole

The original recipe, created by home economist Dorcas Reilly in 1955, was designed to be quick, affordable, and made with pantry staples. With canned green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions, it was easy to prepare and had an irresistible crunchy topping. Its popularity soared as families across America adopted it for holiday menus.

This modern homemade version pays homage to the classic while upgrading the ingredients for a richer, fresher flavor. By using fresh green beans, baby bella mushrooms, and a creamy homemade sauce, this dish retains its comforting roots but elevates the taste profile to appeal to today’s health-conscious and flavor-focused cooks.

Why This Recipe Is the Best

1. Fresh Ingredients: Unlike the traditional version that relies on canned vegetables, this recipe uses fresh green beans for a crisp texture and vibrant color. Baby bella mushrooms provide earthy umami flavor, while garlic and thyme enhance the aromatic profile.
2. Homemade Sauce: The creamy mushroom sauce replaces canned soup with a blend of butter, flour, chicken broth, and heavy cream, offering a rich and silky texture without preservatives.
3. Crispy Shallot Topping: Instead of pre-packaged fried onions, this recipe features homemade crispy shallots, seasoned perfectly to add crunch and depth.
4. Customizable Flavor: Ingredients like Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and nutmeg create layers of flavor, while red pepper flakes can be added for a slight kick.
5. Crowd-Pleaser: This casserole combines comforting flavors and textures, making it a versatile side dish suitable for family dinners, potlucks, and festive celebrations.

Nutritional Benefits

While traditional green bean casseroles are often laden with sodium and processed ingredients, this homemade recipe offers healthier alternatives. Fresh green beans are packed with fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, and essential minerals like iron and calcium. Mushrooms provide antioxidants and immune-boosting properties, while heavy cream and Parmesan cheese deliver a touch of indulgence balanced by their calcium content.

By preparing the crispy shallots from scratch and using high-quality oils, this recipe also avoids trans fats often found in pre-made fried onions. The addition of fresh herbs and garlic enhances the nutritional value, offering anti-inflammatory and antibacterial benefits.

Tips for Making the Perfect Green Bean Casserole

1. Blanch the Green Beans: Boiling green beans briefly and then shocking them in ice water preserves their bright color and crispness.
2. Prep Ahead: You can make the creamy sauce and crispy shallots a day in advance, saving time during busy holiday preparations.
3. Texture Matters: Ensure the sauce is thick enough to coat the green beans but not too heavy, so the casserole doesn’t turn out soggy.
4. Cheese Variation: While Parmesan adds a nutty flavor, you can experiment with Gruyère or sharp cheddar for a twist.
5. Serving Suggestions: Serve this dish alongside roasted turkey, glazed ham, or prime rib for a complete holiday feast.

Variations and Add-Ons

• Vegan Option: Swap butter for vegan margarine, heavy cream for coconut cream, and chicken broth for vegetable broth.
• Protein Boost: Add cooked bacon bits or shredded rotisserie chicken to make it a one-dish meal.
• Gluten-Free Alternative: Replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat.

Why It Belongs on Your Holiday Table

Green bean casserole is more than just a side dish; it’s a comforting reminder of home and tradition. Whether you’re hosting a formal holiday dinner or preparing a casual potluck, this recipe delivers a balance of elegance and simplicity. The layers of fresh vegetables, rich creaminess, and crispy toppings create a dish that satisfies both nostalgic cravings and modern culinary expectations.

Conclusion

This homemade green bean casserole reinvents a classic with fresh, high-quality ingredients and rich flavors that are perfect for any gathering. It proves that comfort food can be both indulgent and wholesome, making it a timeless addition to your recipe collection. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays or simply looking for a comforting side dish, this casserole is guaranteed to impress. So, the next time you’re planning a family meal, give this updated classic a try. It not only tastes amazing but also tells a story of tradition and innovation, bringing everyone at the table closer together.