Homemade Green Bean Casserole

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that will steal the show at your next family gathering, look no further than this Homemade Green Bean Casserole. This dish is so much more than just a holiday staple; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and rich flavors that everyone will adore. I love how the creamy mushroom sauce adds depth to the tender green beans, making each bite a delightful experience. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or Thanksgiving dinner, this casserole is sure to make your table feel warm and inviting.

The best part? You can whip it up from scratch without any canned ingredients. It’s an easy recipe that brings joy to both the cook and the guests. Plus, it’s an excellent way to showcase vibrant green beans in a delicious way!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Homemade Flavor: The creamy mushroom sauce is made from scratch, giving you that rich taste that beats store-bought any day!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this side dish. It pairs perfectly with just about anything!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare most of this dish in advance, making your holiday cooking a breeze.
• Versatile Dish: This casserole works well for any occasion, from casual weeknights to festive gatherings.
• Texture Delight: With crispy shallots on top and tender green beans underneath, every bite is satisfying!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Homemade Green Bean Casserole! You won’t need anything fancy to create this delicious dish—just fresh produce and a few pantry staples!

For the Crispy Shallots

• 4 medium shallots (halved lengthwise & then sliced thinly into half moons)
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• Creole Cajun Seasoning—homemade or store-bought (or seasoned salt), to taste

For the Casserole

• 24 ounces fresh green beans (ends trimmed)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 8 ounces baby bella mushrooms (sliced)
• 1 tablespoon garlic (minced or paste)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard (smooth or whole grain)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (or half and half)
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (divided)

Variations

One of the most delightful aspects of this Homemade Green Bean Casserole is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.

• Add Protein: Toss in some cooked chicken or turkey for added heartiness.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use plant-based cheese to keep it dairy-free.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or sage for unique flavor profiles.
• Cheesy Twist: Try mixing in some cheddar cheese along with parmesan for an extra cheesy goodness!

How to Make Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Shallots

Start by frying those shallots! Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced shallots and fry until they turn golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds a crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy casserole below.

Step 2: Cook the Green Beans

While your shallots are frying, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the trimmed green beans for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green but still crisp. This process keeps them vibrant while ensuring they don’t become mushy in the casserole.

Step 3: Make the Mushroom Sauce

In another pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and sauté until they’re golden brown, about 5 minutes. Then add garlic and cook for an additional minute. Stir in flour and cook for another minute before slowly whisking in chicken broth. The sauce should thicken nicely—this is where all that creamy goodness comes from!

Step 4: Combine Everything

Once your mushroom sauce has thickened, add in lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), nutmeg, salt, pepper, cream, and half of your parmesan cheese. Mix well until everything is combined.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

In a baking dish, combine blanched green beans with the creamy mushroom sauce. Top with crispy fried shallots and sprinkle remaining parmesan cheese on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

And there you have it! Your Homemade Green Bean Casserole is ready to shine on your dining table! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Creating the perfect homemade green bean casserole is all about attention to detail and a few insider tricks. Here are some pro tips to elevate your dish!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh green beans and mushrooms not only enhance the flavor but provide a wonderful texture that canned alternatives just can’t match.

• Fry shallots perfectly: Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the shallots. This will help them crisp up beautifully, giving your casserole that delightful crunch.

• Season your sauce generously: Don’t be shy with your spices! Adjusting seasonings like Creole Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

• Don’t overcook the green beans: Blanch them until just tender before mixing with the sauce. This keeps them vibrant and crisp, ensuring you get that satisfying snap when you bite into them.

• Layer for flavor: When assembling your casserole, layer some of that delicious creamy mushroom sauce between the green beans and sprinkle some parmesan cheese at different stages for an extra cheesy goodness throughout.

How to Serve Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Homemade green bean casserole is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Here are some ideas on how to present this dish beautifully at your table!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of bright green parsley adds color and freshness.
• Lemon zest: Just a touch of lemon zest can brighten the rich flavors of the casserole.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the savory flavors of the casserole, making for a well-rounded meal.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes bring comfort to any plate and pair perfectly with this dish.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with fresh vegetables and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
• Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with herbs offers a delightful texture that balances out the creamy casserole.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re well on your way to making an unforgettable homemade green bean casserole that’s sure to impress everyone at your table! Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Homemade Green Bean Casserole is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, making your busy days a little easier. Here’s how to store and reheat your casserole:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the casserole cool completely.
• Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze before baking.

Reheating

• If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last few minutes to crisp up the top.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

Can I use canned green beans in this Homemade Green Bean Casserole?

While fresh green beans give the best texture and flavor, you can use canned green beans if you’re short on time. Just make sure to drain and rinse them well before adding them to the casserole.

How do I make this Homemade Green Bean Casserole vegan-friendly?

To make this casserole vegan, simply replace heavy whipping cream with a plant-based cream alternative and opt for vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also swap out parmesan cheese for a vegan cheese product.

What can I serve with this Homemade Green Bean Casserole?

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, turkey, or even a hearty vegetarian main like stuffed bell peppers. It’s versatile enough to complement many meals!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Homemade Green Bean Casserole as much as I do! It’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will surely impress your family and friends during any gathering. Remember, cooking is all about love and creativity—so feel free to add your own twist! Happy cooking!