Homemade Green Bean Casserole

If you’re looking for a dish that brings warmth and joy to your table, you’ve come to the right place! This Homemade Green Bean Casserole is more than just a side dish; it’s a heartfelt celebration of flavors and textures. I adore this recipe because it transforms simple ingredients into something truly special. The creamy mushroom sauce is made from scratch, ensuring there’s no can in sight, and trust me, your family will appreciate the extra effort!

Perfect for busy weeknights or festive family gatherings, this casserole is a reliable crowd-pleaser. With tender green beans, nutty parmesan cheese, and crispy shallots on top, every bite is filled with deliciousness. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe even more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Homemade Goodness: Forget the canned stuff! This casserole features a scratch-made creamy mushroom sauce that tastes leaps and bounds better.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will enjoy digging into this comforting dish.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare it ahead of time and simply bake it when you’re ready. Perfect for those busy holiday meals!
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with turkey, chicken, or even a hearty vegetarian main course. It fits any occasion beautifully!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Homemade Green Bean Casserole is a breeze! They are all simple and wholesome, making it easy to whip up this delicious side. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 best things about this Homemade Green Bean Casserole is its flexibility! Feel free to experiment with these variations:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some sautéed carrots or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
• Cheesy Twist: Swap in some cheddar cheese for part of the parmesan for an extra cheesy flavor.
• Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley to brighten up the dish.
• Spice it Up: If you like a bit of heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add jalapeños.

How to Make Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Crispy Shallots

Start by heating the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the sliced shallots. Fry them until they turn golden brown and crispy—this will take about 5-7 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally so they don’t burn! These crispy shallots will give your casserole that delightful crunch.

Step 2: Cook the Green Beans

While your shallots are frying, bring a pot of salted water to boil. Add your trimmed green beans and cook them for about 5 minutes until they’re bright green and just tender. Drain them quickly and plunge them into ice water to stop cooking. This keeps them crisp!

Step 3: Make the Creamy Mushroom Sauce

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add sliced mushrooms and minced garlic, cooking until they’re tender—about 4 minutes. Sprinkle in flour to create a roux; this thickens our sauce beautifully! Gradually whisk in chicken broth followed by lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, red pepper flakes, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Once your sauce has thickened—about 5 minutes—stir in heavy cream and half of the parmesan cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Next, gently fold in those vibrant green beans until they are well coated.

Step 5: Assemble & Bake

Transfer everything into a greased baking dish. Top with remaining parmesan cheese along with those crispy fried shallots you made earlier. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Now you have yourself a beautiful Homemade Green Bean Casserole that is sure to impress family and friends at any gathering! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Creating the perfect Homemade Green Bean Casserole is a delightful experience, especially with a few handy tips to guide you!

• Choose Fresh Green Beans: Using fresh green beans instead of canned ones not only enhances the flavor but also provides a lovely crisp texture. Look for beans that are vibrant and firm.

• Make Your Own Fried Shallots: While store-bought fried shallots are convenient, homemade ones have a superior crunch and flavor. Plus, they allow you to control the seasoning!

• Season Your Sauce Well: Don’t be shy with your seasonings! The creamy mushroom sauce is where all the flavor comes from, so taste as you go and adjust the spices to your liking.

• Don’t Overcook the Beans: Blanching the green beans for just a few minutes keeps them tender yet crisp in the final dish. You want that perfect bite!

• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing your casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavors.

How to Serve Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Presenting your Homemade Green Bean Casserole can be as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to make your dish shine at any table setting.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the casserole.
• Toasted Almonds: For an added crunch, consider topping with toasted almonds. They bring an earthy flavor that complements the green beans beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing, creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and balance out the texture of the casserole.

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These little gems offer a delightful caramelized flavor when roasted. Their slight bitterness contrasts nicely with the creamy casserole.

• Stuffed Acorn Squash: Sweet and savory stuffed acorn squash makes for a beautiful presentation while being packed with flavor. They add seasonal flair to your meal.

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is always a hit! Its buttery goodness makes it perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce from your casserole.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Homemade Green Bean Casserole will be a star at any gathering! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Homemade Green Bean Casserole is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious home-cooked meals without the fuss on busy days. You can prepare it in advance and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Cool the casserole completely before freezing.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or transfer to a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover with foil and reheat for about 20-25 minutes, until warmed through.
• For crispy topping, uncover for the last 5 minutes of reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I make Homemade Green Bean Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just follow the storage instructions above.

What can I use instead of heavy cream in Homemade Green Bean Casserole?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream for a lighter option while maintaining creaminess.

How do I make Homemade Green Bean Casserole gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients are verified gluten-free as well.

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

Absolutely! Frozen green beans can be used; just make sure to thaw and drain them well before mixing them into your casserole.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this Homemade Green Bean Casserole! It’s not just a dish; it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings friends and family together. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, I’m certain this recipe will become a cherished favorite. Enjoy making it, and don’t hesitate to share your experience—happy cooking!