ULTIMATE GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE BEST

I’ll never forget the first Thanksgiving I hosted; I was so nervous, determined to make everything perfect, right down to the last detail of the Green Bean Casserole. What I thought would be a disaster turned into a triumphant success, and that humble casserole was the star of the show! Today, I’m going to share all my secrets for making a truly unforgettable green bean casserole, one that will have everyone asking for seconds, I promise!

Let’s Talk Green Bean Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food

Green bean casserole. Just the name conjures up images of cozy holidays, family gatherings, and that warm, comforting feeling of home. It’s a dish that’s been gracing our tables for generations, and for good reason – it’s delicious! But let’s be honest, sometimes it can be a little… predictable. That’s where I come in. We’re going to take this classic and elevate it, infusing it with flavor and texture that will make it the talk of the table.

Why This Recipe Works

There are a million green bean casserole recipes out there, so what makes this one special? Here’s the secret sauce:

• Fresh Ingredients (When Possible): While canned green beans have their place, fresh or frozen green beans bring a vibrancy and sweetness that can’t be beat.
• Homemade Mushroom Sauce: Forget the canned soup! We’re making a luscious, creamy mushroom sauce from scratch that’s bursting with flavor.
• Crispy Fried Onions: Store-bought fried onions are fine in a pinch, but homemade are truly exceptional. We’ll talk about both options.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavors: We’re not just throwing ingredients together; we’re carefully layering flavors to create a harmonious and delicious dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need for the ultimate green bean casserole:

• Green Beans: 2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and snapped, or 2 (14.5 ounce) cans of green beans, drained, or 2 (10 ounce) packages of frozen green beans, thawed.
• Mushrooms: 1 pound cremini or white mushrooms, sliced.
• Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, chopped.
• Garlic: 2 cloves garlic, minced.
• Butter: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter.
• Flour: 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour.
• Chicken Broth: 2 cups chicken broth.
• Milk: 1 cup milk (whole or 2%).
• Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon soy sauce (for umami).
• Worcestershire Sauce: 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (for depth).
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.
• Crispy Fried Onions: 1 ½ cups store-bought crispy fried onions, or homemade (recipe below).

Making Homemade Crispy Fried Onions (Optional, But Highly Recommended!)

Okay, I know, making your own crispy fried onions sounds intimidating, but trust me, it’s worth it! The flavor is incredible, and they’re surprisingly easy to make.

Ingredients for Homemade Crispy Fried Onions:

• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions for Homemade Crispy Fried Onions:

1. Prepare the Onions: Separate the onion slices into rings.
2. Dredge the Onions: In a bowl, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge the onion rings in the flour mixture, making sure they’re evenly coated.
3. Fry the Onions: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the onion rings to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot.
4. Fry Until Golden Brown: Fry for 2-3 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain the Onions: Remove the onions from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. Season and Enjoy: Season the onions with a little extra salt, if desired. They’re best served immediately!

Step-by-Step Green Bean Casserole Instructions

Alright, let’s get down to business! Here’s how to make the best green bean casserole you’ve ever tasted:

1. Prepare the Green Beans: If using fresh green beans, blanch them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes until they’re bright green and slightly tender-crisp. Immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain well. If using canned or frozen green beans, drain them well and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Cook the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they’re softened and have released their moisture, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Make the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook until the sauce has thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine and Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the green beans and the mushroom sauce. Stir to coat. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with Onions: Sprinkle 1 cup of the crispy fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the onions are golden brown.
8. Add Remaining Onions: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of crispy fried onions over the top of the casserole during the last 5 minutes of baking. This prevents them from burning.
9. Let Rest: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly.

Tips for the Perfect Green Bean Casserole

Here are a few extra tips to ensure your green bean casserole is a masterpiece:

• Don’t Overcook the Green Beans: Overcooked green beans will be mushy and unappetizing. Aim for tender-crisp.
• Sauté the Mushrooms Properly: Don’t rush the mushroom-sautéing process. Cooking them long enough to release their moisture will concentrate their flavor.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: The amount of salt and pepper you need will depend on the saltiness of your chicken broth and the seasoning of your crispy fried onions. Taste the sauce and adjust accordingly.
• Use a Good-Quality Baking Dish: A good baking dish will distribute heat evenly and prevent the casserole from sticking.
• Make it Ahead: You can assemble the green bean casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Add the crispy fried onions just before baking.
• Spice It Up: For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mushroom sauce.
• Add Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese or Gruyere cheese on top of the casserole during the last 5 minutes of baking adds a delicious cheesy element.

Variations and Add-Ins

Want to put your own spin on this classic dish? Here are a few ideas:

• Bacon: Cooked and crumbled bacon adds a smoky, salty flavor that complements the green beans and mushrooms perfectly.
• Different Mushrooms: Experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or oyster mushrooms, for a more complex flavor.
• Different Vegetables: Add other vegetables, such as roasted red peppers or caramelized onions, for extra flavor and texture. If you like potatoes, try the Green Bean Potato Casserole!
• Cream Cheese: Stir in a few tablespoons of cream cheese to the mushroom sauce for a richer, creamier flavor.
• Wine: Add a splash of dry white wine to the mushroom sauce while it’s simmering for added depth of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Green bean casserole is a classic side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any holiday meal. It also pairs well with:

• Roasted chicken or turkey
• Ham
• Meatloaf
• Pork chops
• Mashed potatoes
• Stuffing
• Cranberry sauce

Troubleshooting

Sometimes, things don’t go exactly as planned. Here are a few common green bean casserole problems and how to fix them:

• Casserole is too dry: Add a little more chicken broth or milk to the sauce.
• Casserole is too watery: Cook the sauce for a few more minutes to thicken it. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to the sauce.
• Crispy fried onions are burning: Add them later in the baking process, during the last 5 minutes.
• Green beans are mushy: Don’t overcook the green beans. Blanch them briefly or use canned or frozen green beans.

Other Great Side Dishes

If you want to round out your holiday menu, consider adding some of these other delicious side dishes:

• Green Bean Bake: A slightly different twist on the classic.
• Green Beans: Simple, flavorful, and always a hit.
• Crack Green Beans: Another great green bean option!

Storage Instructions

Leftover green bean casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some frequently asked questions about green bean casserole:

Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans. Thaw them completely and drain them well before using.

Can I use canned cream of mushroom soup?

While I highly recommend making the mushroom sauce from scratch for the best flavor, you can substitute canned cream of mushroom soup if you’re short on time. Use about 2 cans (10.75 ounces each) and reduce the amount of chicken broth accordingly.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Also make sure that the Worcestershire sauce you use is vegetarian (some brands contain anchovies).

Can I freeze green bean casserole?

Freezing green bean casserole isn’t recommended, as the texture of the sauce and green beans can change after thawing. It’s best to enjoy it fresh.

How can I prevent the crispy fried onions from burning?

Add them during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Conclusion

There you have it – my ultimate guide to making the best Green Bean Casserole. With a little extra effort, you can transform this classic dish into a truly unforgettable side that will impress your family and friends. Happy cooking!

Lady Maria

ULTIMATE GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE BEST

This ultimate green bean casserole recipe elevates the classic dish with fresh ingredients and homemade mushroom sauce. It delivers a comforting and flavorful experience that will impress family and friends, making it the star of any holiday meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 8

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and snapped, or 2 14.5 ounce) cans of green beans, drained, or 2 (10 ounce
• 1 pound cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk whole or 2%
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• 1 1/2 cups store-bought crispy fried onions, or homemade recipe follows
• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced for homemade crispy fried onions
• 1 cup all-purpose flour for homemade crispy fried onions
• 1 teaspoon salt for homemade crispy fried onions
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper for homemade crispy fried onions
• Vegetable oil for frying for homemade crispy fried onions

Equipment

• large skillet
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Large bowl
• whisk
• slotted spoon
• paper towels
• Pot or deep fryer (for homemade fried onions, optional)
• knife
• Cutting board

Method

 

1. If using fresh green beans, blanch them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes until they’re bright green and slightly tender-crisp. Immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain well. If using canned or frozen green beans, drain them well and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they’re softened and have released their moisture, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook until the sauce has thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
6. In a large bowl, combine the green beans and the mushroom sauce. Stir to coat.
7. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
8. Sprinkle 1 cup of the crispy fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the onions are golden brown.
10. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of crispy fried onions over the top of the casserole during the last 5 minutes of baking. This prevents them from burning.
11. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly.
12. To make homemade crispy fried onions: Separate the onion slices into rings. In a bowl, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge the onion rings in the flour mixture, making sure they’re evenly coated. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the onion rings to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 2-3 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and crispy. Remove the onions from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Season the onions with a little extra salt, if desired. They’re best served immediately!

Notes

For a richer flavor, use fresh green beans. Don’t overcook the green beans; aim for tender-crisp. Sauté the mushrooms properly to concentrate their flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mushroom sauce. A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Gruyere cheese adds a delicious cheesy element. You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Leftover green bean casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Freezing is not recommended.