Green Bean Casserole Recipe

This Green Bean Casserole Recipe features fresh beans, homemade mushroom sauce, and crispy fried onions. Simple, creamy, and perfect for holidays or weeknight dinners.

Green Bean Casserole Recipe
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I never thought I’d get emotional about a green bean casserole, but here we are. Growing up, this dish was always the unsung hero of our Thanksgiving table, sitting quietly next to the turkey while everyone raved about the mashed potatoes.

Fast forward to my first time hosting Thanksgiving, and I was determined to recreate that creamy, crispy-topped magic. My first attempt was a disaster – I used canned soup straight from the pantry, and it turned out bland and watery. That’s when I decided to master a Green Bean Casserole Recipe from scratch.

After years of tweaking and testing, I’ve landed on this version that combines fresh ingredients with just the right amount of nostalgia. The secret is making your own cream of mushroom base and getting those fried onions perfectly golden and crunchy.

Quick Recipe Summary
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Servings8-10
Difficulty LevelEasy

Why You’ll Love This Green Bean Casserole Recipe

This isn’t your average holiday side dish thrown together at the last minute. It’s a thoughtfully crafted recipe that elevates simple ingredients into something truly memorable.

The homemade mushroom sauce adds depth and richness that canned versions simply can’t match. You’ll taste the difference in every creamy, savory bite.

The texture is spot-on – tender green beans that still have a slight snap, surrounded by velvety sauce and topped with those irresistibly crispy onions. It’s the perfect balance that keeps people coming back for seconds.

  • Made from scratch: Real ingredients mean real flavor, with no mystery additives or preservatives
  • Customizable: Easy to adjust seasonings, swap dairy options, or add your favorite extras
  • Make-ahead friendly: Most of the work can be done the day before, saving you stress on the big day
  • Crowd-pleaser: Even picky eaters who claim they don’t like green beans always ask for this recipe
  • Budget-friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients that don’t break the bank during the expensive holiday season

Looking for more comforting side dishes? My sweet potato casserole is always a hit at our holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

This recipe uses straightforward ingredients that come together to create something extraordinary. I’ve learned that using fresh green beans makes all the difference in both texture and flavor.

For the Green Bean Base:

  • 2 pounds (900g) fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon (5g) salt for blanching water

For the Homemade Mushroom Sauce:

  • 4 tablespoons (56g) unsalted butter
  • 12 ounces (340g) cremini mushrooms, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup (31g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups (480ml) whole milk
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon (2g) onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon (1g) black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon (0.5g) ground nutmeg
  • 1 cup (100g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese

For the Crispy Topping:

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Having the right tools makes this recipe come together smoothly. I’ve made this enough times to know which equipment truly matters.

After making this casserole countless times, I’ve found a few products that genuinely make the process easier and the results better. These are my tried-and-true favorites.

1. Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Baking Dish

I switched to this baking dish three years ago and haven’t looked back. It distributes heat incredibly evenly, so your casserole cooks uniformly without any burnt edges or cold spots in the middle. The enameled surface also makes cleanup surprisingly easy, even with all that baked-on cheese.

Get it on Amazon

2. French’s Crispy Fried Onions

Yes, you can make your own fried onions, but these are honestly perfect. They stay crispy even after baking, and they have that classic flavor everyone expects from green bean casserole. I always keep an extra canister in my pantry during the holidays.

Get it on Amazon

3. Microplane Premium Classic Zester

This tool has completely changed how I grate Parmesan for the sauce. Freshly grated cheese melts so much better than pre-shredded, and this zester makes quick work of it. It’s also perfect for adding fresh nutmeg, which really elevates the mushroom sauce.

Get it on Amazon

4. All-Clad Stainless Steel Skillet

A quality skillet makes a huge difference when you’re making the mushroom sauce from scratch. This one heats evenly, so your roux doesn’t burn, and the stainless steel surface helps develop those beautiful fond bits from the mushrooms that add extra flavor to the sauce.

Get it on Amazon

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Green Bean Casserole

Follow these detailed steps for a perfectly creamy, crispy casserole every time. I’ve included all the little tips I’ve learned along the way.

1. Prepare and Blanch the Green Beans

Getting the green beans just right is crucial for the perfect texture in your finished casserole.

  • Fill your large pot with water and add 1 teaspoon of salt, then bring it to a rolling boil over high heat
  • While the water heats, trim the ends off your green beans and cut them into uniform 2-inch pieces for even cooking
  • Prepare a large bowl filled with ice water and set it near your stove for shocking the beans
  • Once the water boils, carefully add the green beans and cook for exactly 4-5 minutes until they’re bright green and crisp-tender
  • Immediately drain the beans in a colander and plunge them into the ice bath to stop the cooking process
  • Let them sit in the ice water for 2-3 minutes, then drain thoroughly and pat dry with clean kitchen towels
  • Set the blanched beans aside while you prepare the sauce

Another favorite of mine is this creamed spinach, which uses a similar creamy base.

2. Sauté the Mushrooms

The mushrooms add incredible depth and umami flavor to your casserole.

  • Heat your large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter
  • Once the butter melts and starts to foam, add the sliced mushrooms in a single layer
  • Let the mushrooms cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes to develop a golden-brown color on one side
  • Stir and continue cooking for another 5-6 minutes until the mushrooms release their moisture and it evaporates
  • Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning
  • Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then transfer the cooked mushrooms to a plate

3. Make the Cream Sauce

This homemade sauce is what truly sets this casserole apart from canned versions.

  • In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat
  • Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for 2-3 minutes to create a roux that’s golden and smells slightly nutty
  • Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming
  • Add the heavy cream and continue whisking as the mixture comes to a gentle simmer
  • Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon
  • Stir in the onion powder, black pepper, salt, and ground nutmeg
  • Add the grated Parmesan cheese and whisk until it melts completely and the sauce is smooth
  • Return the cooked mushrooms to the skillet and stir to combine

4. Combine and Assemble

Now it’s time to bring everything together in your baking dish.

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C)
  • Lightly grease your 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray
  • Add the blanched green beans to the mushroom cream sauce in the skillet
  • Gently fold everything together until the beans are evenly coated with sauce
  • Pour the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly
  • Use a spatula to smooth the top so it bakes uniformly

Read Also: Hashbrown Casserole Recipe

5. Prepare the Crispy Topping

The crunchy topping is what makes this casserole absolutely irresistible.

  • In a medium bowl, combine the French fried onions and panko breadcrumbs
  • Drizzle the melted butter over the mixture and toss everything together with your hands or a fork
  • Make sure the butter is evenly distributed throughout the onions and breadcrumbs
  • Sprinkle this topping mixture evenly over the green bean casserole
  • Press down very gently so the topping adheres to the sauce

6. Bake to Perfection

The final baking brings everything together into golden, bubbly perfection.

  • Place the casserole on the center rack of your preheated oven
  • Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the sauce is bubbling around the edges
  • If the topping is browning too quickly, tent the dish loosely with aluminum foil
  • The casserole is done when the topping is golden brown and crispy, and the sauce bubbles vigorously
  • Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving
  • Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired for a pop of color and extra flavor

Tips for The Best Green Bean Casserole

These are the tricks I’ve learned over years of making this dish that really make a difference.

  • Don’t skip the blanching: This step keeps your green beans bright green and ensures they’re tender but not mushy in the final dish
  • Use fresh mushrooms: They add so much more flavor than canned soup, and slicing them thin helps them meld perfectly into the sauce
  • Grate your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting, so always grate Parmesan fresh
  • Watch your roux: Cook the flour and butter mixture long enough to eliminate the raw flour taste but not so long that it burns
  • Add the milk gradually: Pouring it in slowly while whisking prevents lumps and gives you a silky-smooth sauce
  • Let it rest: Those 5 minutes after baking allow the sauce to thicken slightly and make serving much neater
  • Toast the topping separately: For extra-crispy onions, toast them with the breadcrumbs in a dry skillet before adding to the casserole
  • Season as you go: Taste the sauce before combining with beans and adjust salt and pepper to your preference
  • Don’t overcook: The green beans will continue cooking in the oven, so keep them crisp-tender during blanching
  • Use room temperature dairy: This helps your sauce come together more smoothly without breaking

For another classic comfort dish, try my thanksgiving stuffing.

Serving Suggestions

Green Bean Casserole Recipe

This versatile casserole pairs beautifully with so many dishes and occasions.

Green bean casserole shines brightest on the holiday table alongside traditional favorites. It’s the perfect complement to roasted turkey, honey-glazed ham, or prime rib, providing a creamy, savory element that balances richer main courses.

For a complete holiday spread, serve it with these classics:

Variations of Green Bean Casserole

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

The beauty of this casserole is how adaptable it is while still maintaining that classic comfort food appeal.

  • Add bacon: Crumble 6-8 strips of cooked bacon into the green bean mixture before baking for smoky richness
  • Use different mushrooms: Try shiitake, oyster, or a wild mushroom blend for more complex, earthy flavors
  • Make it lighter: Substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and use 2% milk instead of whole
  • Add cheese to the topping: Mix 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Gruyere into the fried onion mixture
  • Try fresh herbs: Fold in fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage leaves with the green beans
  • Spice it up: Add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cream sauce
  • Go dairy-free: Use plant-based butter, coconut cream, and nutritional yeast instead of cheese
  • Add almonds: Mix 1/2 cup sliced toasted almonds into the topping for extra crunch
  • Include water chestnuts: Add 1 can of sliced water chestnuts for additional texture
  • Make mini casseroles: Divide the mixture among individual ramekins for personalized servings

You might also enjoy: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Storage and Reheating

Proper storage keeps your casserole tasting fresh, though I doubt you’ll have much left over.

This casserole stores beautifully and actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

  • Refrigerator storage: Cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container, then refrigerate for up to 4 days
  • Freezing instructions: Prepare the casserole completely but don’t add the topping, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing for up to 3 months
  • Thawing method: Transfer frozen casserole to the refrigerator 24 hours before baking, allowing it to thaw completely
  • Reheating in the oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until heated through, then remove foil and bake 5 more minutes to crisp the topping
  • Microwave option: Heat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes on high, though the topping won’t be as crispy
  • Make-ahead tip: Assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate, then add the topping and bake just before serving
  • Refreshing leftovers: Add a splash of cream or milk when reheating if the sauce seems dry
  • Storing components separately: Keep the green bean mixture and crispy topping in separate containers to maintain the topping’s crunch

Nutritional Facts

Per serving (based on 10 servings):

  • Calories: 285
  • Total Fat: 19g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 52mg
  • Sodium: 425mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 21g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 6g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Vitamin A: 15% DV
  • Vitamin C: 12% DV
  • Calcium: 18% DV
  • Iron: 8% DV

Note: Nutritional information is approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

Another favorite: Taco Casserole

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

While this is definitely a comfort food, it does include some genuinely nutritious components.

Green beans are the star vegetable here, and they bring more to the table than just color and crunch. They’re loaded with vitamins K and C, which support bone health and immune function.

Key health highlights include:

  • Green beans: Rich in antioxidants, fiber, and folate that support digestive health and may reduce inflammation
  • Mushrooms: Provide selenium, B vitamins, and compounds that may boost immune function and support heart health
  • Garlic: Contains allicin, which has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular benefits
  • Parmesan cheese: Offers calcium and protein, plus it’s naturally lower in lactose than many other cheeses
  • Olive oil: Contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and anti-inflammatory compounds
  • Nutmeg: Has antioxidant properties and may aid digestion, though we use just a small amount for flavor

FAQs About Green Bean Casserole

1. Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen green beans work in a pinch and can save you prep time. Thaw them completely and pat them very dry before mixing with the sauce to avoid a watery casserole. Keep in mind that frozen beans tend to be softer than fresh, so they may not have quite the same crisp-tender texture, but the flavor will still be delicious.

2. How do I keep the topping crispy?

The key is not to add the topping until right before baking, and make sure your oven is fully preheated. If you’re making the casserole ahead, store the topping separately and add it just before the dish goes in the oven. You can also toast the onions and breadcrumbs in a dry skillet beforehand for extra crispiness.

3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely, and it’s actually one of the best make-ahead holiday dishes. Assemble everything except the topping up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes, add the topping, and bake as directed, adding 5-10 extra minutes since it’s starting cold.

4. What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half works well and lightens up the dish considerably, though the sauce won’t be quite as rich. You can also use all whole milk, but add an extra tablespoon of flour to help thicken the sauce. For a dairy-free version, full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream are excellent alternatives that maintain the creamy texture.

5. Why is my casserole watery?

This usually happens when the green beans aren’t dried thoroughly after blanching, or the sauce isn’t cooked long enough to thicken properly. Make sure to pat your beans completely dry with kitchen towels and cook the cream sauce until it’s thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. If your sauce seems thin, simmer it a few extra minutes before adding the beans.

Read Also: Mississippi Pot Roast

Final Thoughts

Green bean casserole has earned its place as a holiday classic for good reason. It’s comforting, crowd-pleasing, and surprisingly simple to make from scratch.

This version honors the traditional flavors we all love while elevating them with fresh ingredients and homemade sauce. The result is a casserole that’s creamy, savory, and topped with that signature crispy crunch that makes it impossible to resist second helpings.

I hope this recipe becomes a cherished part of your holiday traditions like it has for my family. Give it a try this season and let me know how it turns out in the comments below!

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