Green Bean Casserole Recipe
If you love classic comfort food, then you probably know and love this green bean casserole recipe. A staple at holiday tables for generations, this dish delivers rich, savory flavor with creamy mushroom sauce, tender green beans, and crispy fried onions. While the traditional recipe holds a special place in many kitchens, our version is easy to prepare and just as satisfying. Get ready to make a green bean casserole that’s both timeless and irresistible!
What to Look for When Buying Green Beans
You can use frozen green beans, but fresh ones deliver the best flavor and texture. When shopping for green beans at the grocery store or farmers market, keep these tips in mind:
- Color: Look for bright green beans that are free of blemishes or dark spots. Avoid any that are discolored, wilted, or moldy.
- Texture: They should be firm and snap easily when bent.
- Stem Ends: The ends should be moist, not dry or shriveled.
- Shape: Choose straight beans with consistent size for even cooking.
Can You Use Cream of Mushroom Soup in a Green Bean Casserole Recipe?
Yes! While many homemade versions use fresh mushrooms, cream, and milk, you can substitute with canned cream of mushroom soup. It’s a convenient option that adds rich flavor and reduces prep time. Perfect for busy holidays or weeknight dinners.
Can You Make Green Bean Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely. Green bean casserole is a great make-ahead dish:
- Fried onions: Prepare up to 1 month in advance and store in an airtight container.
- Mushroom sauce: Can be made 3–4 days ahead and refrigerated.
- Full assembly: Build the entire casserole up to 2 days in advance. Cover tightly with foil and refrigerate until ready to bake.
To serve, bake as directed below.
Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 1 lb green beans
- ½ lb button mushrooms, sliced and divided
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup fried onions
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Bring salted water to a boil in a large pot. Add green beans and cook for 3 minutes. Drain and trim ends.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook mushrooms for 5 minutes until browned.
- Add 2 tbsp butter and continue to cook mushrooms until dark brown and tender. Season with salt and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt remaining 2 tbsp butter over medium-low heat. Stir in flour and cook for 4 minutes to form a roux.
- Whisk in milk and cream. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until thickened—about 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In a 2-quart baking dish, combine green beans and mushrooms. Pour sauce over top and mix gently.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbling.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes until browned.
- Top with fried onions and bake uncovered for 3 more minutes. Let sit 10 minutes before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Green Bean Casserole Recipe
- Easy to make: Minimal prep with rich, homemade flavor.
- Flexible: Make it ahead of time or swap in shortcuts like cream of mushroom soup.
- Perfect for holidays: A crowd-pleaser at Thanksgiving, Christmas, and more.
