Homemade Green Bean Casserole

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that will make your taste buds dance, you’ve just found the perfect recipe! This Homemade Green Bean Casserole is a beloved classic in my kitchen, and I’m excited to share it with you. The creamy mushroom sauce, made from scratch, is rich with flavor and brings everything together beautifully. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday gathering, this dish shines on any table.

What makes this casserole truly special is its delightful combination of textures and flavors. You’ll love the tender yet crisp green beans intertwined with the nutty parmesan and topped with crispy homemade shallots. It’s a showstopper that everyone will be reaching for seconds of!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and wholesome ingredients, this casserole comes together quickly.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike adore this comforting dish—it’s a sure hit at dinner!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it in advance, making holiday meal prep a breeze.
• Flavor-Packed Goodness: The scratch-made mushroom sauce brings deep flavors that canned versions just can’t match.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Homemade Green Bean Casserole uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need to create this delicious side dish!

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to customize it to your liking! Here are some delicious variations you might consider:

• Add Protein: Toss in some cooked chicken or turkey for a heartier option—perfect if you’re looking to make it a main dish!
• Go Vegan: Substitute the butter with olive oil and use plant-based cream for a vegan-friendly version.
• Spice It Up: Add some chopped jalapeños or chili flakes if you want a little kick.
• Mix in Other Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like corn or carrots for an even greater variety of flavors.

How to Make Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Crispy Shallots

Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced shallots, sprinkling them with Creole seasoning. Fry them until golden brown and crispy—this will take about 5-7 minutes. Remove them from the oil and let them drain on paper towels. This step not only adds crunch but also infuses your casserole with sweet onion flavor!

Step 2: Cook the Green Beans

In another pot, bring salted water to a boil. Blanch the green beans for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green but still crisp. Quickly transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This method keeps them vibrant and crunchy in your casserole.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Mushroom Sauce

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and garlic, sautéing until they soften and release their juices—this takes about 5 minutes. Sprinkle in flour and stir continuously for about one minute before slowly whisking in chicken broth. Cook until thickened; then add lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, red pepper flakes, nutmeg, salt, pepper, and heavy cream. This sauce is where all that flavor comes from!

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, combine blanched green beans with the creamy mushroom sauce until they are well coated. Pour this delicious mixture into a baking dish.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Sprinkle half of your crispy shallots on top of the casserole before baking at 350°F for about 25 minutes until bubbly. Don’t forget to sprinkle on the remaining shallots right before serving for that extra crunch! Enjoy every bite of this comforting Homemade Green Bean Casserole!

Pro Tips for Making Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Creating the perfect Homemade Green Bean Casserole is all about the little details! Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Choose fresh green beans: Using fresh green beans makes a world of difference in texture and flavor compared to canned options. They retain their crispness and provide a vibrant color to your casserole.
• Make your own crispy shallots: While store-bought options are convenient, frying your own shallots adds a depth of flavor that is simply unmatched. The natural sweetness of the shallots caramelizes beautifully, giving your casserole a gourmet touch.
• Season your sauce well: The creamy mushroom sauce is the heart of this dish, so don’t hesitate to taste and adjust seasoning as you go. A well-seasoned sauce will enhance the overall flavor and make your casserole unforgettable.
• Use high-quality parmesan: Freshly grated parmesan not only melts better but also packs in more flavor than pre-grated varieties. This small change can elevate each bite!
• Don’t overcook the green beans: Blanching them just until they’re bright green and tender-crisp before baking ensures they maintain their texture and vibrant color, adding visual appeal to your casserole.

How to Serve Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Presenting your Homemade Green Bean Casserole can be as delightful as making it! Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner, here are some ideas on how to serve it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that contrasts nicely with the creamy casserole.
• Toasted breadcrumbs: For an extra layer of crunch, consider sprinkling some toasted breadcrumbs over the top just before serving.

Side Dishes

• Roasted garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic complement the rich flavors of the casserole while providing a comforting side.
• Honey glazed carrots: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory elements of the green bean casserole, creating a delightful balance on the plate.
• Quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette: This light and refreshing salad adds a healthy twist, bringing brightness and texture that contrasts well with the creamy dish.
• Cranberry sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce can cut through the richness of your casserole, making it an ideal accompaniment for holiday meals.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Homemade Green Bean Casserole will not only taste fantastic but also impress everyone at the table! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Homemade Green Bean Casserole is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it for later, saving you time and effort during busy holiday seasons or weeknight dinners.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.

Freezing

• To freeze, cool the casserole completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover the casserole with foil to prevent it from drying out while reheating.
• Heat for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through. You can uncover the dish during the last few minutes to crisp up the top.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Homemade Green Bean Casserole that might help you in your cooking journey!

Can I make Homemade Green Bean Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re putting it in cold.

How do I store leftovers of Homemade Green Bean Casserole?

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It reheats beautifully and makes for a great quick meal!

Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh for this Homemade Green Bean Casserole?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans. Just be sure to thaw them and drain off any excess moisture before mixing them into the casserole.

What can I substitute for heavy whipping cream in Homemade Green Bean Casserole?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or a non-dairy milk alternative like coconut milk can work well as substitutes.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Homemade Green Bean Casserole as much as I do! With its rich flavors and delightful textures, it’s bound to become a favorite at your table. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or just a cozy family dinner, this dish brings warmth and happiness with every bite. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or any variations you try!