why make this recipe
Green Bean Casserole From Scratch is a classic comfort food that brings warmth to the table. Made with fresh ingredients, this dish provides a healthier, homemade alternative to the store-bought versions. You can feel good about serving a dish that is not only delicious but packed with flavor. Plus, it’s a great choice for family gatherings and holiday meals.
how to make Green Bean Casserole From Scratch
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and cut (or frozen thawed/drained)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 8 oz mushrooms (button/cremini), sliced
- 1 small onion, finely diced (or 1 shallot)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk (or half-and-half for richer sauce)
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 6 oz crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 190 °C (≈375 °F).
- If you are using fresh green beans, trim and cut them. Blanch the green beans in boiling salted water for about 4–5 minutes until they are bright-green and just tender-crisp. Then drain and set them aside. If you are using frozen green beans, ensure they are thawed and drained.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion (or shallot) and cook until softened. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture. Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to coat. Gradually whisk in the broth and milk (or half-and-half), stirring constantly until a creamy sauce forms and thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if you are using it.
- Gently stir the blanched green beans into the sauce until they are well coated. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle the crispy fried onions evenly on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20–25 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the onions are golden and crisp. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
how to serve Green Bean Casserole From Scratch
Serve Green Bean Casserole From Scratch as a side dish at family dinners, holiday gatherings, or potlucks. It pairs well with roasted meats and other traditional sides.
how to store Green Bean Casserole From Scratch
After serving, allow any leftovers to cool completely. Store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven until hot, or use the microwave for quicker servings.
tips to make Green Bean Casserole From Scratch
- For extra flavor, add some grated cheese to the sauce before mixing in the green beans.
- You can use a mix of mushrooms for varied taste.
- If you want a crunchier topping, you can bake the casserole a little longer or add more fried onions on top.
variation (if any)
You can make a vegetarian version by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a lighter option, consider using low-fat milk.
FAQs
Q: Can I use canned green beans for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use canned green beans. However, they may not have the same fresh taste and texture as fresh or frozen.
Q: How can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the casserole and assemble it in the baking dish. Cover it and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: Can I freeze Green Bean Casserole From Scratch?
A: It’s not recommended to freeze the casserole because the texture of the green beans can change when thawed. However, you can freeze the sauce separately and combine it with fresh green beans when you are ready to bake.
Green Bean Casserole From Scratch
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 190 °C (≈375 °F).
- If using fresh green beans, trim and cut them. Blanch in boiling salted water for about 4–5 minutes until bright-green and just tender-crisp, then drain and set aside. If using frozen green beans, ensure they are thawed and drained.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion (or shallot) and cook until softened.
- Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture. Then, add minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Sprinkle flour over vegetables and stir to coat. Gradually whisk in broth and milk (or half-and-half), stirring constantly until a creamy sauce forms and thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using.
- Gently stir blanched green beans into the sauce until well coated. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle crispy fried onions evenly on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20–25 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the onions are golden and crisp. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.