Homemade Green Bean Casserole

If you’re looking for a delicious side dish that brings everyone together, look no further than this Homemade Green Bean Casserole! This recipe is a true labor of love, featuring a creamy mushroom sauce made from scratch—no cans in sight. It’s loaded with tender yet crisp green beans, nutty parmesan, and topped with golden fried shallots that add the perfect crunch. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner on a busy weeknight or an elegant holiday feast, this casserole will be the star of the table.

What makes this casserole truly special is its versatility and comfort factor. It’s not just about the flavors; it’s about creating memories with loved ones. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Homemade Goodness: The creamy mushroom sauce is made from fresh ingredients, making every bite feel special.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore this dish, making it perfect for gatherings.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you’ll have this casserole ready in no time!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare elements in advance, making your meal planning easier.
• Flavor Explosion: Each layer of flavor—from savory mushrooms to crispy shallots—will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Homemade Green Bean Casserole uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting 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

The beauty of this Homemade Green Bean Casserole is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it according to your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add Protein: Toss in some cooked chicken or turkey for a heartier dish.
• Go Vegan: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a plant-based version.
• Spice it Up: Add more red pepper flakes if you like a kick of heat!
• Cheesy Delight: Mix in some shredded cheddar cheese for an extra cheesy goodness.

How to Make Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Crispy Shallots

Start by heating the vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced shallots and fry them until they turn golden brown. This process is essential as it adds an amazing crunch and sweetness to your casserole. Once cooked, drain them on paper towels and season lightly with Creole seasoning.

Step 2: Blanch the Green Beans

In another pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add your trimmed green beans and blanch them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re bright green but still crisp. This step keeps them vibrant and ensures they don’t become mushy when baked.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Mushroom Sauce

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they release their moisture and start to brown—this enhances their flavor. Then stir in garlic and cook for another minute before adding flour to create a roux. Gradually whisk in chicken broth while ensuring there are no lumps.

Step 4: Add Flavorful Ingredients

Once your sauce thickens slightly, mix in lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Finally, stir in the heavy cream and half of the grated parmesan until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

In a large mixing bowl, combine your blanched green beans with the creamy mushroom sauce. Stir gently until all beans are well coated. Transfer this mixture into a baking dish and sprinkle the remaining parmesan on top.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake your casserole for about 25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. In the last few minutes of baking, add those crispy shallots on top so they get warm but remain crunchy.

And there you have it! A comforting Homemade Green Bean Casserole that is sure to impress at any gathering while bringing smiles around the table. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Creating the perfect Homemade Green Bean Casserole is easier than you think! Here are some tips to help you achieve a deliciously creamy and crispy dish every time.

• Choose Fresh Green Beans: Opt for fresh green beans instead of frozen ones. They add a delightful crunch and vibrant color, enhancing the overall texture of your casserole.

• Make Your Own Fried Shallots: While store-bought fried shallots can be convenient, making your own enhances the flavor and ensures they’re perfectly crispy. Plus, it’s a fun way to add a personal touch to your dish!

• Adjust the Seasoning: Don’t be shy about seasoning! Taste your creamy mushroom sauce before adding it to the green beans. Adjust the salt, pepper, and spices according to your preference for maximum flavor.

• Use High-Quality Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan cheese melts better and provides a richer flavor than pre-packaged varieties. It truly elevates your casserole!

• Bake Until Golden Brown: Keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. You want that beautiful golden crust on top, which adds not just taste but also visual appeal!

How to Serve Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Serving your Homemade Green Bean Casserole beautifully can make a big difference at any meal. Here are some ideas on how to present this scrumptious side dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the casserole.
• Zest of Lemon: A light sprinkle of lemon zest on top just before serving brightens up the dish and enhances its flavors.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with roasted garlic provide a comforting balance to the green bean casserole’s crispiness.
• Honey Glazed Carrots: These sweet, tender carrots add a lovely contrast in both flavor and texture while being visually appealing on the plate.
• Herbed Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with fresh herbs, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers brings freshness to your table and pairs beautifully with the richness of the casserole.
• Stuffed Bell Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers filled with rice, vegetables, and spices complement your meal while adding another layer of color and nutrition.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Homemade Green Bean Casserole will not only taste incredible but will also look stunning at any gathering! Enjoy sharing this delightful dish with family and friends during special occasions or cozy weeknight dinners.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Homemade Green Bean Casserole is a fantastic option for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy a delicious side dish any day of the week! You can prepare it in advance and store it for later, ensuring that you always have something tasty on hand.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Prepare the casserole as directed, but do not bake it.
• Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date for reference!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through and bubbly.

FAQs

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

Can I make Homemade Green Bean Casserole without heavy cream?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even coconut cream for a lighter version while still maintaining creaminess.

What can I use instead of shallots in Homemade Green Bean Casserole?

If you don’t have shallots on hand, yellow onions or green onions can be great alternatives that will still provide flavor and texture.

How long does Homemade Green Bean Casserole last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your Homemade Green Bean Casserole will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

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

Definitely! Feel free to mix in mushrooms, carrots, or even corn to enhance flavors and textures in your casserole.

Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?

While this recipe includes dairy, you can easily adapt it by using plant-based milk and cheese alternatives to make it vegan-friendly!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Homemade Green Bean Casserole! It’s not just a dish; it’s a comforting reminder of holidays spent with loved ones. With its creamy sauce, fresh green beans, and crispy shallots, every bite is bound to bring a smile to your face. I’m excited for you to try making it—happy cooking!