Introduction
Green bean casserole is a classic dish that is often associated with Thanksgiving and holiday meals. This comforting and savory recipe combines tender green beans, creamy mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions, creating a delicious side dish that complements various main courses. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or looking to impress your family with a homemade feast, this green bean casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Green Beans: 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
Cream of Mushroom Soup: 1 can (10.5 ounces)
Milk: ½ cup
Soy Sauce: 1 teaspoon
Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon
Fried Onions: 1 ½ cups, divided
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup (optional)
Prep Time
Prep time for this dish is approximately 15 minutes. This includes washing and trimming the green beans and preparing the other ingredients for the casserole.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is about 30 minutes, resulting in a total time of approximately 45 minutes from prep to table. This recipe yields about 6 to 8 servings, making it perfect for a family gathering or festive occasion. Enjoy this dish that combines tradition and flavor, making every meal special.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preparing the Green Beans
Start by trimming the ends of the green beans. After that, wash them under cold running water. If you prefer, you can cut the green beans into bite-sized pieces.
Blanching the Green Beans
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the green beans and cook for about 5 minutes until tender but still crisp. Drain the beans and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. After a few minutes, drain the beans again and set them aside.
Making the Mushroom Sauce
In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, add diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent. Stir in garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle in flour and stir constantly for about 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens.
Adding Mushrooms
Add sliced mushrooms to the sauce and stir until they are coated. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combining Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched green beans with the mushroom sauce. Stir until the green beans are fully coated with the sauce.
Baking the Casserole
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the green bean mixture to a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Top with crispy fried onions. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until bubbling and golden brown.
Serving the Casserole
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This dish pairs well with a variety of main courses.
Notes
Substitutions
You can use fresh mushrooms instead of canned ones for a more robust flavor. Additionally, fresh green beans can be substituted if you prefer using frozen or canned; just adjust the cooking times accordingly.
Make-Ahead Tips
The green bean mixture can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Assemble everything in the baking dish and cover it with plastic wrap. Just bake it the next day, adding extra time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Cook techniques
Blanching Green Beans
Blanching involves cooking the green beans in boiling water for a short period, followed by quickly plunging them into ice water. This technique helps preserve the vibrant color and crunchiness of the beans.
Making a Creamy Sauce
Create a creamy sauce by combining sautéed mushrooms with cream, broth, and seasoning. This mixture adds rich flavor and moisture to the casserole, enhancing the overall taste.
Layering Ingredients
Layering the green beans with the creamy sauce and crispy fried onions allows for even distribution of flavors and textures throughout the casserole.
Baking to Perfection
Bake the casserole until it is bubbly and golden on top. Baking not only melds the flavors together but also provides a delightful crispiness to the fried onions.
Garnishing for Flavor
Finish the casserole with additional fried onions on top before serving for an extra crunch and flavor boost.
FAQ
Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Yes, fresh green beans are a great choice. Just be sure to blanch them before adding them to the casserole.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when ready to serve.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover green bean casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I use a different type of onion?
Yes, you can substitute with other types of onions, but keep in mind that they may alter the flavor profile slightly.
Is there a vegetarian version?
Yes, you can create a vegetarian version by using vegetable broth and ensuring that any toppings are also meat-free.
Conclusion
Green bean casserole is a warm and comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of sautéed green beans, creamy sauce, and crispy toppings. Whether served during holiday gatherings or as a simple weeknight side, this recipe allows for flexibility and creativity in the kitchen. Experimenting with different ingredients can elevate the classic dish and appeal to a wide array of tastes.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Classic Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions
This timeless version features tender green beans mixed with a creamy mushroom sauce, topped with crispy fried onions for that signature crunch.
Cheesy Green Bean Casserole
Add a rich layer of cheese into your casserole for an extra creamy texture and an indulgent flavor. Cheddar or Gruyère are great options.
Vegan Green Bean Casserole
Swap the dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives, such as cashew cream or almond milk, and use a vegan crispy topping to create a delicious vegan version.
Asian-Inspired Green Bean Casserole
Incorporate soy sauce and sesame oil into the mushroom sauce and top with fried shallots or cashews for a flavorful twist on the traditional dish.
Green Bean and Mushroom Almondine
Replace the traditional creamy sauce with sautéed garlic, lemon juice, and toasted almonds for a refreshing and lighter take on green bean casserole.