Green bean casserole is a timeless classic that brings comfort and joy to any meal, especially during the holidays.
It’s creamy, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser.
This recipe for the best green bean casserole will make your next gathering unforgettable.
Fresh green beans, creamy mushrooms, and a crispy topping combine to create a dish that is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make.
Whether you’re preparing for a holiday feast or just a cozy family dinner, this green bean casserole will surely impress.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs fresh green beans
- 16 oz cremini mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 6-8 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 1/2 cups crispy fried onions
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup water
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon Better than Bouillon Chicken Base
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons low sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F.
Step 2: Prepare the Green Beans
Trim the ends off the green beans.
Place them in slightly salted boiling water to blanch for 5-7 minutes.
This process will help them stay crisp.
Once blanched, remove them into iced water to stop the cooking process. Set the beans aside.
Step 3: Cook the Onions
In a deep, large skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter.
Once melted, add the finely chopped onion. Cook for about 3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
Step 4: Add Mushrooms and Garlic
Next, add the sliced mushrooms and the cooking oil to the skillet.
Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring often.
This will allow the mushrooms to release their juices and become tender.
After 10 minutes, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
Step 5: Add the Flour
Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and onion mixture.
Stir everything together and let it cook for 2 minutes.
This step is important as it helps to thicken the sauce.
Step 6: Add Liquids
Slowly pour in the water and whole milk while stirring constantly.
This will help to prevent clumps from forming.
Continue stirring until the mixture is smooth.
Step 7: Season the Sauce
Add the Better than Bouillon Chicken Base, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard to the mixture.
Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Let the sauce thicken slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
Remember, it will continue to thicken as it bakes.
Once the sauce is thickened, remove it from the heat.
Step 8: Mix in Crispy Fried Onions
Stir in 3/4 cup of crispy fried onions.
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Step 9: Combine with Green Beans
Drain the green beans and pat them dry with paper towels.
Add the green beans to the sauce and mix well.
Transfer the mixture into a deep casserole dish.
Step 10: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for 30 minutes.
While the casserole is baking, prepare the topping.
In a small bowl, combine the remaining 3/4 cup crispy fried onions with 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese.
Mix them together thoroughly.
Step 11: Add Topping and Finish Baking
Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven.
Sprinkle the Parmesan and crispy fried onion mixture over the top.
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
This will give the topping a delightful crunch and golden color.
Enjoy your green bean casserole hot and fresh out of the oven!
It’s the perfect side dish that combines creamy, savory flavors with a crispy topping, making it a hit at any meal.
Additional Tips
For a richer flavor, you can use half-and-half instead of whole milk.
Feel free to use different types of cheese if you prefer. Cheddar or Gruyère can add a unique twist to the classic recipe.
If you’re looking to save time, you can use canned green beans, but fresh beans really make a difference in taste and texture.
Green bean casserole can be made ahead of time. Prepare it up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, bake it according to the instructions, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
This green bean casserole is more than just a side dish; it’s a comforting, satisfying part of any holiday feast or family meal. Its creamy texture, combined with the crispy fried onions and Parmesan cheese topping, makes it irresistible.
Give this recipe a try and watch as it becomes a new favorite in your home!