Green Bean Casserole offers a delightful twist to a classic comfort dish. This version transforms traditional flavors into a fresh, vibrant side that’s perfect for gatherings. Whether it’s holiday dinners or a cozy family meal, this casserole shines with its creamy texture and savory notes. With fresh green beans, mushrooms, and garlic, it captures the essence of home-cooked goodness, reminding us of the importance of comfort food in our lives.
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe is not just about the ingredients; it’s about the experience. Green Bean Casserole stands out because it combines fresh vegetables with the creamy, nostalgic flavors we all adore. It’s quick and easy to whip up, making it a budget-friendly option, especially when fresh green beans are in season. Perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive holiday feasts, it’s a crowd-pleaser that your family will request time and time again.
“This casserole was a hit at our Thanksgiving dinner! Everyone loved the fresh green beans paired with the creamy mushroom sauce and crispy onions. Will definitely make it again!”
The cooking process explained
Making Green Bean Casserole is straightforward and rewarding. The steps involve sautéing aromatics, blanching green beans, and bringing everything together in one delicious dish. Here’s what to expect: you’ll melt butter, cook mushrooms and garlic, then blend all the ingredients before baking to perfection. It’s the simplicity of the method that makes this dish so pleasing!
What you’ll need
Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you need to create this mouthwatering casserole:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup onion (finely diced)
- 8-ounce package button mushrooms (sliced)
- 3 cups fresh green beans (ends removed and cut in half)
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 (10.75-ounce) can low-sodium cream of mushroom soup
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- crispy onion strings for topping
You can also substitute low-sodium options for a healthier dish, or explore different types of mushrooms for a unique flavor profile.
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the diced onions and sliced mushrooms, sautéing until tender, stirring occasionally.
- Mix in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh green beans and chicken broth. Bring to a boil.
- Cook the green beans for about 8 minutes until they are crisp-tender, then drain thoroughly and set aside.
- Spray a 2-quart baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, mushroom mixture, green beans, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and top with crispy onion strings.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until heated through.
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving Green Bean Casserole, the possibilities are endless! It pairs beautifully with roasted meats, like turkey or chicken, and can be a hearty complement to mashed potatoes or stuffing. Consider adding a splash of citrus or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top to elevate the presentation. This dish is versatile enough to shine on any dinner table.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To ensure your leftover casserole stays delicious, store any extras in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3-4 days. When reheating, consider using an oven for even heating, or a microwave if time is short. If you plan to keep it longer, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil; it can stay good for up to 2 months in the freezer.
Pro chef tips
To make this Green Bean Casserole even more scrumptious, consider these tips:
- Use fresh green beans instead of frozen for the best texture.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the mixture.
- Toast your crispy onion strings in the oven for a few minutes before adding them on top for an even crunchier texture.
Recipe variations
If you want to switch things up, consider trying different variations:
- Swap the green beans for asparagus or broccoli for a fresh twist.
- Add some cooked beef or pancetta for added richness.
- Experiment with different cheeses, like cheddar or Gruyere, for unique flavor profiles.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare and cook?
The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 40-45 minutes.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, then bake just before serving.
Are there any suitable substitutions for dietary restrictions?
Yes! To make the dish vegetarian, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Gluten-free cream of mushroom soup is available, making this recipe adaptable for those with gluten sensitivities.
By using fresh ingredients and following a simple cooking process, this Green Bean Casserole will become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the blend of flavors and textures that make it a standout dish for any occasion!
PrintGreen Bean Casserole
A delightful twist on the classic comfort dish, combining fresh green beans, mushrooms, and creamy flavors perfect for gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup onion, finely diced
- 8-ounce package button mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cups fresh green beans, ends removed and cut in half
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 (10.75-ounce) can low-sodium cream of mushroom soup
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Crispy onion strings for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the diced onions and sliced mushrooms, sautéing until tender, stirring occasionally.
- Mix in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh green beans and chicken broth. Bring to a boil.
- Cook the green beans for about 8 minutes until they are crisp-tender, then drain thoroughly and set aside.
- Spray a 2-quart baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, mushroom mixture, green beans, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and top with crispy onion strings.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until heated through.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of Worcestershire sauce. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg






