Deliciously baked green bean casserole topped with crispy onions

Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole

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A creamy, crunchy side dish that is quick to make and loved at family meals.

introduction

This Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole is creamy, warm, and has a crunchy top. It uses fresh green beans, mushrooms, and a simple cream sauce. For another rich take with extra crisp topping, you can read an extra creamy version with crispy onions to compare ideas.

why make this recipe

Make this dish because it is easy, tastes like home, and feeds a crowd. It is better than canned versions because it uses fresh beans and mushrooms. You can make it ahead and bake it before guests arrive.

how to make Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole

Bring a pot of salty water to a boil. Blanch the green beans for three minutes, then cool them in cold water. Sauté the mushrooms in olive oil until they turn golden and set them aside. Make the cream sauce by melting butter, stirring in flour, then whisking in milk and cream until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, garlic, and thyme. Layer the beans and mushrooms in a baking dish and pour the sauce on top. Cover and bake, then uncover and brown the top before adding fried onions. This approach follows a classic green bean casserole method that keeps the beans bright and the sauce silky.

Ingredients :

  • 2 lb. fresh green beans
  • Kosher salt
  • 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 lb. crimini mushrooms
  • 6 Tbsp. unsalted butter
  • 4 large sprigs thyme
  • 2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
  • 1¼ cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • ¾ cup French’s fried onions

Directions :

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F and boil a large pot of salted water.
  2. Cook fresh green beans in boiling water for 3 minutes, drain and cool.
  3. Sauté mushrooms in olive oil until golden brown; season with salt and set aside.
  4. Make a cream sauce by melting butter, adding flour, milk, and cream; whisk and season.
  5. Layer green beans and mushrooms in a baking dish, pour cream sauce on top.
  6. Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes; uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. Top with fried onions and bake for 3 more minutes.
  7. Let sit for 10 minutes before serving.

how to serve Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole

Serve warm as a side dish with roast turkey, chicken, or ham. Spoon it onto plates with a large spatula so the sauce stays with the beans. Let it rest 10 minutes so it firms up and is easier to serve.

how to store Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole

Cool the casserole to room temperature, then cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes until hot, then add fried onions and bake 2–3 more minutes.

tips to make Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole

  • Use fresh green beans for better texture and bright color.
  • Don’t overcook the beans in the pot; blanch just 3 minutes to keep them crisp.
  • Sauté mushrooms until they are golden to bring out their flavor.
  • Whisk the cream sauce well to avoid lumps.
  • Add the fried onions at the end for best crunch. You can read some Ina Garten style tips for serving and timing if you want more ideas.

variation (if any)

  • Add cooked bacon bits for a smoky flavor.
  • Use green beans and asparagus mix for a spring version.
  • Stir in a little Dijon mustard for a tangy note.
  • Replace Parmesan with Gruyère for a richer taste.

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 of time?
A: Yes. Assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready and add the fried onions at the end.

Q: Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?
A: You can, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. Use full-fat milk and cream for best texture.

Q: How do I keep the fried onions crisp?
A: Add them only in the last few minutes of baking or sprinkle them on right before serving.