Why Make This Recipe
Green Bean Casserole is a classic dish that features tender green beans in a creamy sauce topped with crispy fried onions. It’s a dish that many people associate with family gatherings and holiday feasts, making it a nostalgic choice for home cooks everywhere.
Making this casserole is not only simple, but it’s also a great way to bring something special to your table. The combination of flavors and textures creates a harmonious dish that complements any meal.
Equipment Needed for Green Bean Casserole
To successfully prepare Green Bean Casserole, having the right equipment can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you will need:
- Large pot for boiling
- Slotted spoon or tongs
- Large bowl for ice bath
- Medium saucepan for sautéing
- Whisk for mixing
- 13" x 9" baking dish
What You Need to Make Green Bean Casserole
To create this delicious Green Bean Casserole, gather the following ingredients:
- Kosher salt
- 3 lb. green beans, trimmed
- 12 Tbsp. unsalted butter, divided
- 2 yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1 lb. cremini mushrooms, sliced
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 6 cups whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups French’s fried onions
How to Cook Green Bean Casserole Step by Step
To start, preheat your oven to 350 degrees. This temperature will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly. As the oven heats, prepare an ice bath in a large bowl. This is important for stopping the cooking process of the green beans when they are done boiling.
In a large pot, bring generously salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the trimmed green beans and stir them occasionally. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes or until they are bright green and tender crisp. When they are ready, use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer the cooked beans into the ice bath to cool down quickly. After a few minutes, drain the beans and transfer them to another large bowl.
Next, take another large pot and place it over medium heat. Melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in this pot. Once melted, add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook them for around 7 minutes, or until they become softened and translucent. After that, add the sliced cremini mushrooms to the pot. Continue cooking until the mushrooms are browned, which should take about another 7 minutes.
Once the mushrooms are nicely browned, add the finely chopped garlic and cook for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Be sure to season this mixture with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. After the garlic is cooked, transfer the entire onion and mushroom mixture to the bowl with the green beans.
Now, it’s time to make the creamy sauce. In the same pot, melt the remaining 8 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly with a whisk. Cook this mixture until it becomes golden, which should take around 3 minutes. Then, gradually whisk in the milk, and add a little more salt and pepper to taste.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to cook until it thickens, about 4 minutes. Once it’s thickened, pour this creamy sauce over the green bean mixture and stir everything together until well combined.
Transfer the combined mixture to a 13" x 9" baking dish. Spread it evenly to ensure that it cooks uniformly. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the casserole is warmed through and bubbling delightfully.
To finish off, sprinkle the crispy fried onions on top of the casserole and return it to the oven. Bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the fried onions are heated through and crispy again.
How to Make Green Bean Casserole
Making Green Bean Casserole is straightforward. The most time-consuming part is preparing the ingredients, but the final result is worth it. Once you gather everything you need, following the steps above makes the process easy.
You begin by blanching the green beans, then cooking the onion and mushroom mixture for added flavor. Making the cream sauce ties everything together beautifully, which is then baked to perfection and finished with the crunchy topping.
This dish is perfect for potlucks, gatherings, or as a side to your family dinners. With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you can create a delicious casserole that will impress.
How to Serve Green Bean Casserole
Green Bean Casserole can be served as a side dish, perfect for complementing many main courses. The creaminess of the casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, such as turkey or chicken, and its freshness is a wonderful contrast to heartier dishes.
Scoop out generous portions onto your guests’ plates. You can serve it hot straight from the oven or allow it to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional fried onions on top for an eye-catching presentation and extra crunch.
What to Serve with Green Bean Casserole
When planning a meal, it’s essential to consider the other dishes you will serve alongside your Green Bean Casserole. It pairs beautifully with various main courses and sides.
Consider serving it with a succulent roast chicken or prime rib for a heartier meal. Mashed potatoes or rice are excellent choices for complementing both the texture and flavor of the casserole. You can also add a simple green salad or cranberry sauce for a refreshing touch.
How to Store Green Bean Casserole
If you find yourself with leftovers, you’ll be pleased to know that Green Bean Casserole can be stored for later enjoyment. Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
You can keep it in the refrigerator where it will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat the casserole in the oven at 350 degrees until warmed through.
Avoid reheating in the microwave, as this can make the casserole soggy, especially the fried onions on top.
Tips to Make Green Bean Casserole
To ensure that your Green Bean Casserole turns out perfectly, consider these tips. First, it’s essential to properly trim the green beans. Remove the ends where they were attached to the plant.
When cooking the onions and mushrooms, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This allows for better browning and flavor development. Be mindful of the seasoning; tasting as you go will help you achieve the perfect balance.
Finally, for an extra boost of flavor, add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the cream sauce. This enhances the umami experience.
Variation
If you’re interested in putting a unique twist on Green Bean Casserole, consider a recipe variation. You can swap out the cremini mushrooms with other types such as shiitake or button mushrooms depending on your preference.
For a bit of a kick, add in some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes. If you want to make it a full meal, consider layering cooked pasta into the casserole, mixing it with the green beans and sauce before baking.
Best Time to Make Green Bean Casserole
The best time to make Green Bean Casserole is during the holiday season. It is a cherished dish during Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners. However, it can also be enjoyed year-round as a delightful side for family gatherings or casual dinners.
Even on busy weeknights, this casserole can make a quick and satisfying meal option. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple weekday dinner, Green Bean Casserole fits seamlessly into any occasion.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Green Bean Casserole, there are a few common pitfalls to keep in mind to ensure your dish turns out perfectly. Do not overcook the green beans. They should be bright green and crisp, not mushy.
Another mistake is skimping on the seasoning. Adequate salt and pepper are crucial for enhancing flavors, so don’t be afraid to taste and adjust as you go. Lastly, avoid using stale fried onions as a topping, as they can ruin the texture and taste of your final dish.
Nutritional Notes
Green Bean Casserole is a hearty dish that can offer some nutritional benefits. Green beans themselves are low in calories and high in vitamins A and C. They also provide dietary fiber which is good for digestive health.
However, keep in mind that the butter and cream sauce can increase the calorie count. If you prefer a lighter version, consider using low-fat milk or a butter alternative in the recipe.
FAQs
Can I make Green Bean Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the entire casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it on the day you plan to serve.
Can I freeze Green Bean Casserole?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen. Freeze before baking, then simply bake from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of French’s fried onions?
If you want to avoid processed ingredients, you can make your own crispy onion topping by frying fresh onions in oil until golden brown.
Conclusion
Green Bean Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that brings warmth and joy to any table. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation steps, it’s a recipe that can be enjoyed by everyone, making it a favorite for gatherings and celebrations.
Whether you serve it for a holiday feast or a casual family dinner, this casserole is sure to please. With a basic understanding and a bit of creativity, you can make this classic recipe your own. Enjoy making and sharing it with loved ones!
