Creamy green beans topped with crispy fried onions in a serving dish

Creamy Green Beans with Crispy Fried Onions

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why make this recipe

This dish is creamy, crunchy, and easy to make. It pairs well with many meals and brings a homemade touch to any table.

introduction

Creamy Green Beans with Crispy Fried Onions gives you tender green beans in a smooth sauce topped with crunchy onions. It is a simple twist on the classic side dish, similar to the best ever green bean casserole extra creamy with crispy onions, but quick to put together and ready to bake.

how to make Creamy Green Beans with Crispy Fried Onions

Trim and blanch the green beans first so they stay bright and crisp. For a quick texture tip try the crack green beans method before mixing with the sauce. Make the roux, add the broth and cream, then mix the beans with the sauce and top with crispy onions before baking.

Ingredients :

  • 1 lb fresh green beans
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup crispy fried onions

Directions :

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Trim the ends of the green beans and blanch them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes.
  4. Gradually add the broth, stirring until smooth. Then add the heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, cooking until the sauce thickens.
  5. Combine the green beans with the creamy sauce and stir well.
  6. Pour the mixture into a baking dish and top with crispy fried onions.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until heated through and the onions are golden brown. Serve hot.

how to serve Creamy Green Beans with Crispy Fried Onions

Serve hot from the oven. This dish goes well with roasted meats, baked ham, or a simple roasted chicken. Spoon onto the plate so the sauce and onions stay on top.

how to store Creamy Green Beans with Crispy Fried Onions

Cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warm to keep the onions a bit crispy. You can store the fried onions separately and add them just before serving for extra crunch.

tips to make Creamy Green Beans with Crispy Fried Onions

  • Blanch the beans just long enough to keep some snap.
  • Cook the roux for a minute to remove the raw flour taste.
  • If you want a richer sauce, try ideas from other creamy recipes like this creamy cajun potato soup with andouille sausage.
  • Add salt slowly and taste as you go.

variation (if any)

  • Add cooked bacon or ham for a smoky start.
  • Stir in shredded cheese for extra richness.
  • Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen green beans?
A: Yes. Thaw and drain them well, then reduce blanch time so they do not get mushy.

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Assemble the casserole and keep it covered in the fridge. Bake before serving and add fresh fried onions on top if you want extra crispness.

Q: How do I keep the onions crispy?
A: Store fried onions separately and add them in the last few minutes of baking or right before serving.

Q: Can I use milk instead of cream?
A: You can, but the sauce will be thinner. Add a bit more flour to thicken or use half-and-half.

Q: Is there a gluten-free option?
A: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux and check the fried onions are gluten-free.