Homemade Green Bean Casserole

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that brings everyone to the table, look no further than this Homemade Green Bean Casserole! This recipe is a cherished favorite in my household, and I can’t wait to share it with you. With its creamy mushroom sauce made from scratch, this casserole is bursting with flavor and texture. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, and trust me, it’s a hit during the holidays!

What makes this dish even more special is the crispy fried shallots on top. They add a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the tender green beans. This Homemade Green Bean Casserole is not just food; it’s a warm hug served in a dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a culinary expert to whip up this dish. The steps are straightforward and fun!
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love digging into this creamy, flavorful casserole.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a casual dinner, this side dish fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep it in advance, saving time on busy days.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Enjoy knowing exactly what goes into your meal—no cans here!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for this Homemade Green Bean Casserole are simple and wholesome. Each one plays an important role in creating layers of flavor and texture. Let’s gather what we need to make this delicious 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! Feel free to make adjustments or include your favorite ingredients. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some sautéed carrots or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute vegan butter and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a plant-based version.
• Cheesy Twist: Mix in some cheddar cheese along with the parmesan for an extra cheesy flavor.
• Spice It Up: Add more red pepper flakes if you like things a bit spicy!

How to Make Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Shallots

Start by heating the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced shallots and fry until they turn golden brown and crispy. This step is crucial because those crunchy shallots add amazing texture to your casserole!

Step 2: Cook the Green Beans

While the shallots are frying, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the trimmed green beans for about 3-4 minutes until they’re bright green but still crisp. This helps maintain their vibrant color and crunchiness in the final dish.

Step 3: Make the Mushroom Sauce

In another pan, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Sauté sliced baby bella mushrooms until they’re soft. Then add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in flour to create a roux, which thickens our creamy sauce beautifully.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Slowly whisk in chicken broth, followed by lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, red pepper flakes, nutmeg, salt, black pepper, and heavy cream. Bring everything to a gentle simmer until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Assemble & Bake

In a large baking dish, combine blanched green beans with your creamy mushroom sauce. Sprinkle half of the grated parmesan over the top before baking at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until bubbly.

Step 6: Top with Shallots

Finally, remove from oven and sprinkle those crispy fried shallots on top along with any remaining parmesan cheese. Pop it back in just until everything is warmed through again—about 5 minutes does it!

Now you have yourself an unforgettable Homemade Green Bean Casserole that’s sure to impress! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Making a delicious Homemade Green Bean Casserole is all about the details, and these tips will help you elevate your dish to perfection!

• Choose Fresh Green Beans: Fresh green beans have a crunch and vibrant flavor that frozen or canned varieties simply can’t match. Look for bright green, firm beans to ensure the best texture.

• Make Your Own Fried Shallots: While store-bought options exist, homemade fried shallots add a rich, fresh taste and extra crunch. Plus, you can control the seasoning and texture to suit your preference!

• Use Quality Broth: A good chicken broth can make or break your creamy mushroom sauce. Opt for a low-sodium, high-quality broth for a deeper flavor without overwhelming saltiness.

• Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Every palate is different! Don’t hesitate to taste as you go and adjust the Creole seasoning, lemon juice, or Worcestershire sauce to find the perfect balance for your dish.

• Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to sit for about 5-10 minutes after baking helps thicken the sauce and makes serving easier. Plus, it gives everyone a chance to appreciate the delicious aroma!

How to Serve Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Presenting your Homemade Green Bean Casserole beautifully can enhance its appeal at any gathering! Here are some ideas to showcase this dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or thyme adds a pop of color and freshness on top of your casserole.
• Extra Grated Parmesan: Add a little more freshly grated parmesan just before serving for an extra cheesy touch.
• Zest of Lemon: A light sprinkle of lemon zest right before serving can brighten up the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with roasted garlic make for a comforting classic that pairs perfectly with green bean casserole.
• Maple Glazed Carrots: Sweet and savory maple glazed carrots bring a delightful contrast in flavor while adding vibrant color to your table.
• Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce offers a refreshing burst that complements the richness of the casserole exceptionally well.
• Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with quinoa, vegetables, and spices provide an eye-catching side that is both healthy and hearty.

Now you’re all set to whip up this delightful Homemade Green Bean Casserole and share it with family and friends. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Homemade Green Bean Casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it, making your holiday cooking or weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

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

Reheating

• Thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. Remove foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the top.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I make Homemade Green Bean Casserole without cream?

Yes! You can substitute heavy whipping cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream for a lighter version.

What is the best way to store Homemade Green Bean Casserole?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it!

Can I use frozen green beans for Homemade Green Bean Casserole?

Absolutely! Frozen green beans work well too, just be sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to your casserole.

How do I make Homemade Green Bean Casserole healthier?

To make it healthier, use less butter or swap out heavy cream for a lighter option like almond milk or a non-dairy creamer.

Can I prepare Homemade Green Bean Casserole ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This makes meal prep much easier!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Homemade Green Bean Casserole as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to any meal, especially during the holidays. With its creamy mushroom sauce and crispy shallots, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with love and laughter!