Homemade Green Bean Casserole

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that brings everyone together, look no further than this Homemade Green Bean Casserole! This recipe is a cherished part of my family gatherings, and I know it will soon be a favorite in yours too. The creamy mushroom sauce made from scratch is what makes this casserole truly special—no cans here! It’s filled with tender, crisp green beans, nutty parmesan, and topped with crispy fried shallots that add the perfect crunch. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive holiday dinner, this casserole fits right in.

This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a delightful side at Thanksgiving, Sunday dinners, or any time you want to impress your loved ones with minimal effort!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: This casserole comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for both quick dinners and elaborate feasts!
• Family-friendly appeal: With its creamy texture and savory flavors, even the pickiest eaters will ask for seconds.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare it in advance, saving time on busy days without sacrificing flavor.
• Deliciously comforting: The combination of fresh green beans and rich mushroom sauce creates an irresistible dish everyone will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Homemade Green Bean Casserole uses simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Each one contributes to the rich flavors and textures that make this dish so delightful. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Fried 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 Homemade Green Bean Casserole is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add protein: Toss in some cooked shredded chicken or turkey for a heartier meal.
• Swap the veggies: Mix in other vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for added color and nutrition.
• Make it vegan: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.
• Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes or try different herbs like rosemary for a unique twist.

How to Make Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Fried Shallots

Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced shallots. Fry them until they are golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. This step is essential because these fried shallots will provide a crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy casserole beneath.

Step 2: Cook the Green Beans

While your shallots are frying, bring a pot of salted water to boil. Blanch the trimmed green beans for about 5 minutes until they’re tender yet crisp. This quick cooking method helps maintain their vibrant color and crunchiness—exactly what we want!

Step 3: Make the Creamy Mushroom Sauce

In another pan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Sauté until the mushrooms are browned and tender, which should take around 5-6 minutes. Then stir in flour to create a roux; this thickens our sauce beautifully!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Gradually whisk in chicken broth while keeping an eye out for lumps. Then add lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, red pepper flakes if using, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until everything is well combined and thickened—this creamy mixture is going to take your casserole to another level!

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

In a large mixing bowl, combine blanched green beans with your mushroom sauce. Pour this mix into a greased baking dish and top it off with half of your grated parmesan cheese followed by those crispy fried shallots and remaining cheese.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top! The aroma wafting through your kitchen during this time will drive everyone wild with anticipation.

Now you’re ready to serve this delightful Homemade Green Bean Casserole! Trust me; it’s going to become an instant favorite at every gathering!

Pro Tips for Making Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Making a delicious homemade green bean casserole is all about the little details that elevate the dish. Here are some pro tips to ensure your casserole shines!

• Use Fresh Green Beans: Fresh green beans bring a vibrant color and crisp texture that frozen or canned options simply can’t match. It makes a huge difference in flavor and presentation.

• Make Your Own Fried Shallots: While store-bought fried shallots are convenient, making them from scratch adds a fresh, crispy crunch and allows you to control the seasoning. Plus, they’ll be bursting with flavor!

• Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Properly seasoning your sauce is key! Taste as you go and adjust the Creole Cajun seasoning and other spices according to your preference. A well-seasoned dish is always more enjoyable.

• Incorporate Different Mushrooms: While baby bella mushrooms are fantastic, you can mix in shiitake or cremini mushrooms for added depth of flavor. Each type brings its own unique taste and texture.

• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to rest for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set up nicely and makes serving easier. Plus, the flavors will meld together beautifully during this time!

How to Serve Homemade Green Bean Casserole

When it comes to serving your homemade green bean casserole, presentation is everything! Here’s how to make it look as great as it tastes.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top right before serving for a pop of color and freshness that enhances the dish visually and flavor-wise.

• Zest of Lemon: A light sprinkle of lemon zest can brighten up the rich flavors of your casserole, adding an unexpected zing that complements the creamy elements perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These classic mashed potatoes are smooth and buttery, making them a comforting side that pairs harmoniously with the creamy textures of the casserole.

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Toss Brussels sprouts in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until crispy. Their earthy flavor adds a nice contrast to the richness of the casserole.

• Herbed Quinoa Salad: This light salad made with quinoa, fresh vegetables, and herbs offers a refreshing balance to your meal while providing a healthy grain option.

• Maple-Glazed Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots drizzled with maple syrup add a hint of natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like our green bean casserole.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your homemade green bean casserole is sure to be a hit at any gathering or family dinner! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Homemade Green Bean Casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, store it properly, and enjoy its deliciousness on busy days or holiday gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Let the casserole cool to room temperature.
• Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap tightly with plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover with foil and reheat for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Remove foil during the last 5 minutes for a crispy top!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe.

Can I make Homemade Green Bean Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the entire casserole ahead of time and assemble it without baking. Just cover it and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

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

If you’re looking for a lighter option, half and half works wonderfully as a substitute. You can also use non-dairy options like almond milk blended with a bit of cornstarch for thickness.

How do I keep my green beans crisp in Homemade Green Bean Casserole?

To maintain their crispness, avoid overcooking the green beans before adding them to your casserole. Blanching them briefly can help keep that delightful crunch!

Can I add other vegetables to my Homemade Green Bean Casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in some sautéed carrots or bell peppers for added color and flavor. Just ensure they are cooked adequately so they blend well with the green beans.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Homemade Green Bean Casserole! With its creamy mushroom sauce, tender green beans, and crunchy shallots, it’s sure to be a hit at your table. Whether you’re serving it during holidays or just because, this recipe brings warmth and comfort to every meal. Enjoy cooking, sharing, and savoring every bite!