Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole

The Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole is a delightful twist on a classic dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This casserole features fresh green beans, a creamy Parmesan sauce, and savory caramelized mushrooms, topped with crispy French’s onions. Its rich flavors and comforting texture make it an ideal side dish for family gatherings, holiday meals, or simple weeknight dinners. Prepare to impress your guests with this gourmet take on a beloved favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Rich Flavors: The combination of Parmesan cream sauce and caramelized mushrooms creates a depth of flavor that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any family gathering; this casserole complements various main courses.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: A delicious option for vegetarian diners without compromising on taste.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare this casserole in advance and bake it just before serving.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking more efficient and enjoyable. Here are the essential tools you’ll need to create this dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Baking dish (2-quart)
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Pot: Ideal for blanching green beans quickly while retaining their vibrant color and crunch.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing mushrooms evenly to achieve that golden-brown color and rich flavor.
• Baking Dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking and allows for easy serving at gatherings.

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Ingredients

We turned up the dial on green bean casserole with a homemade Parmesan cream sauce, savory caramelized mushrooms, and fresh green beans. French’s onions stay.

For the Green Beans

• 2 lb. fresh green beans
• Kosher salt

For the Mushrooms

• 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• 1 lb. crimini mushrooms, sliced, divided
• 6 Tbsp. unsalted butter, divided
• 4 large sprigs thyme, divided

For the Cream Sauce

• 2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
• 1¼ cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 garlic cloves, finely grated
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• Freshly ground black pepper

Topping

• ¾ cup French’s fried onions

How to Make Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for baking the casserole until bubbly and lightly browned.

Step 2: Blanch the Green Beans

1. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fresh green beans.
2. Blanch them until they are bright green but still crisp, about 3 minutes per batch.
3. Drain the beans and let them cool before trimming the stem ends.

Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil.
2. Cook half of the sliced crimini mushrooms, undisturbed until they turn golden brown underneath (about 2 minutes).
3. Toss them gently and continue cooking until browned on both sides (around 3 more minutes).
4. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 2 sprigs of thyme. Cook until browned and tender (about 4 minutes). Season with kosher salt.
5. Transfer to a plate and repeat with remaining ingredients.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

1. In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, melt remaining tablespoons of unsalted butter.
2. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, cooking until golden brown (about 4 minutes).
3. Gradually whisk in 1¼ cups of whole milk followed by 1 cup of heavy cream. Bring to a simmer while whisking frequently until thickened (about 5 minutes).
4. Remove from heat; stir in finely grated garlic cloves and grated Parmesan cheese; season with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

1. In a greased baking dish (2-quart), arrange blanched green beans and sautéed mushrooms.
2. Pour the cream sauce over the mixture—don’t worry if it seems insufficient; it will thicken during baking.
3. Cover tightly with foil; bake until bubbling (25–30 minutes).
4. Remove foil; bake until lightly browned on top (15–20 minutes).
5. Top with French’s fried onions; return to oven until crispy (about 3 minutes).

Let it sit for about ten minutes before serving to allow it to set perfectly! Enjoy your delicious Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole!

How to Serve Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole

Serving the Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary dishes. This creamy and savory casserole can be enjoyed in various ways to elevate your dining experience.

Family Style

• Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish for a cozy family meal. This method encourages sharing and allows everyone to enjoy generous portions.

Individual Portions

• For a more formal setting, dish out individual servings in small ramekins. This adds a touch of elegance and makes it easier for guests to enjoy.

Topping Variations

• Enhance the traditional French’s fried onions by adding crispy shallots or homemade herb breadcrumbs on top before serving. This adds an extra layer of texture and flavor.

Salad Pairing

• Serve alongside a fresh green salad with a citrus vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing balances the richness of the casserole.

Bread Selection

• Offer crusty bread or soft dinner rolls on the side. They are perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce from the casserole.

How to Perfect Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole

Perfecting your green bean casserole can elevate this classic dish to new heights. Here are some tips to ensure your casserole stands out.

• Choose Fresh Beans: Always opt for fresh green beans over canned ones. They provide a better texture and flavor.
• Use Quality Cream: Using high-quality heavy cream will enrich your sauce, making it more decadent.
• Don’t Skip the Mushrooms: The caramelized crimini mushrooms add depth to the flavor profile, so be sure not to overlook them.
• Thoroughly Season Your Sauce: Taste and adjust seasoning as you prepare your béchamel sauce. A well-seasoned sauce makes all the difference.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for 10 minutes after baking helps it set up nicely, making it easier to serve.
• Experiment with Cheeses: While Parmesan is classic, consider mixing in other cheeses like Gruyère for added complexity in flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole

Pairing side dishes with your Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole can enhance your holiday meal or special occasion. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic complement the rich flavors of the casserole perfectly.
2. Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce offers a refreshing contrast that brightens up every bite.
3. Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast: Juicy, herb-crusted turkey breast provides a wonderful protein option that pairs beautifully with green beans.
4. Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots glazed in honey add color and sweetness to balance the savory notes of the casserole.
5. Stuffing or Dressing: A savory stuffing made with herbs and vegetables adds texture and flavor variety to your meal.
6. Sautéed Brussels Sprouts: Crisp-tender Brussels sprouts sautéed with garlic make for a crunchy yet tender side that complements the creaminess of the casserole.
7. Sweet Potato Casserole: A sweet potato dish topped with marshmallows or pecans creates a delightful sweet contrast against the savory casserole.
8. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with fresh vegetables provides a healthy crunch that enhances your dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your casserole from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using old green beans: Freshness matters! Always choose vibrant, crisp green beans for the best flavor and texture.
• Overcooking the green beans: Cook them only until bright green. They will continue cooking in the oven, so aim for slightly underdone.
• Skipping the mushrooms: Mushrooms add depth of flavor. Don’t skip them; sautéing enhances their taste significantly.
• Not seasoning the sauce adequately: Taste your sauce before combining it with the beans. Adjust salt and pepper as needed for a balanced flavor.
• Neglecting to let it rest: Allow the casserole to sit after baking. This helps it set and makes serving easier.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the casserole is completely cooled before sealing it.

Freezing Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• For best results, freeze without French’s onions on top; add them just before baking.

Reheating Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot. Cover to retain moisture.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring often until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole vegan?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use vegetable broth instead of milk. Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative.

Can I use frozen green beans instead?

Yes, but fresh green beans provide better texture and flavor. If using frozen, thaw and drain them before adding to the recipe.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole?

Consider adding spices like nutmeg or cayenne pepper for extra warmth. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can also brighten the dish.

Can this casserole be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare everything a day in advance, cover it tightly, and bake it when ready to serve.

What can I serve alongside this Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole?

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

The Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole is a delightful twist on a classic dish that’s perfect for gatherings or family dinners. Its creamy texture combined with savory mushrooms makes it irresistible. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables or spices for a personal touch!