Transform your holiday table with this elevated From-Scratch Green Bean and Mushroom Casserole. Made with fresh green beans, sautéed mushrooms, and a rich, creamy homemade sauce, this dish skips the canned soup for a truly delicious upgrade. Topped with crispy fried onions, it delivers a delightful crunch in every bite. Perfect as a side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion, this casserole pairs beautifully with roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or even a simple salad. With its comforting flavors and elegant presentation, it’s sure to become a family favorite year after year.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 pound mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 cup crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 2-quart baking dish and set aside.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and blanch for 3 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the mushrooms and cook for 5-6 minutes until tender and golden brown.
- Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir well to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Reduce heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using. Remove from heat.
- Combine the green beans with the mushroom sauce, mixing gently to coat. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with crispy fried onions and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbling and the topping is golden brown.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 260 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
From-Scratch Green Bean and Mushroom Casserole: A Classic Reimagined
The Green Bean and Mushroom Casserole has been a beloved dish on holiday tables for decades, but its origins date back to the 1950s. The traditional version was popularized by a recipe using canned green beans, condensed mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions. While convenient, the classic recipe often lacks the fresh, vibrant flavors that homemade ingredients can provide.
This from-scratch version breathes new life into the dish by replacing processed ingredients with fresh green beans, sautéed mushrooms, a rich homemade sauce, and perfectly crisp onion toppings. The result is a side dish that is not only more flavorful but also healthier, satisfying, and packed with natural ingredients.
Why This Recipe is the Best
- Fresh Ingredients Enhance Flavor
Fresh green beans provide a tender yet slightly crisp texture that you simply can’t get from canned beans. Sautéed mushrooms add an earthy richness, while a homemade sauce delivers creamy, savory notes that elevate the entire dish. The use of fresh ingredients means every bite bursts with flavor, making this casserole a standout on any table. - Perfect for Special Occasions
While this dish works wonderfully as a side for a regular weeknight meal, it truly shines during holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. The casserole pairs effortlessly with roasted turkey, ham, or beef, making it an ideal companion to hearty main courses. Its beautiful presentation and rich aroma make it a crowd-pleaser at potlucks and family gatherings. - Healthier than Traditional Versions
Many traditional green bean casseroles rely on condensed soups and canned vegetables, which are often high in sodium and preservatives. This from-scratch version skips the processed ingredients, using fresh produce and a homemade cream sauce. It’s a healthier alternative that still retains the creamy, comforting essence of the classic recipe. - Customizable to Suit Dietary Needs
This recipe is highly versatile and can be tailored to accommodate different dietary preferences. For example, you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and fried onions. For a vegan option, substitute dairy milk with plant-based milk and heavy cream with cashew cream or coconut milk. - Timeless Comfort Food
The casserole’s creamy texture, rich flavors, and crispy topping make it the ultimate comfort food. It’s hearty enough to satisfy picky eaters while still appealing to those with more refined palates.
The Benefits of Key Ingredients
- Green Beans:
Green beans are a nutrient powerhouse. They’re low in calories but rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, which supports digestive health. Their bright green color and tender texture add freshness and visual appeal to the dish. - Mushrooms:
Mushrooms bring an earthy depth of flavor while also providing important nutrients like B vitamins, potassium, and antioxidants. They’re known for their immune-boosting properties and are a great source of plant-based umami. - Homemade Cream Sauce:
By making the sauce from scratch, you control the ingredients, ensuring it’s free from additives and excessive sodium. The creaminess comes from milk and heavy cream, which add richness without overpowering the other flavors. - Crispy Fried Onions:
The crispy topping not only adds texture but also a hint of indulgence. If you make them from scratch, you can further enhance the flavor with seasonings like paprika or garlic powder.
Cooking Tips for Success
- Blanch the Green Beans:
Blanching the green beans before baking ensures they retain their vibrant color and firm texture. After boiling, immediately rinse the beans in cold water or immerse them in an ice bath to stop the cooking process. - Choose the Right Mushrooms:
While white button mushrooms work well, consider using cremini or baby portobello mushrooms for a deeper, more robust flavor. - Season as You Go:
To achieve the best flavor, season each component of the dish as you prepare it. Add salt and pepper to the mushrooms, adjust the seasoning in the cream sauce, and taste as you go. - Crispy Onions:
Store-bought crispy onions are convenient, but making them at home adds a personal touch. Thinly slice onions, coat them in flour and seasonings, then fry them until golden brown for a fresh and crunchy topping. - Experiment with Additions:
Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cream sauce for a warm, spiced undertone, or sprinkle in some shredded cheese like Gruyère or sharp cheddar for extra richness.
A Star on Any Table
This casserole is more than just a side dish—it’s a centerpiece. The creamy sauce envelops the tender green beans and mushrooms, creating a decadent texture that contrasts beautifully with the crispy onion topping. Its inviting aroma and elegant presentation make it a talking point at any gathering.
Variations to Try
- Cheesy Upgrade:
Add shredded cheese to the cream sauce or sprinkle it on top before baking for an extra gooey, indulgent casserole. - Bacon Bliss:
Incorporate crispy bacon bits into the mushroom mixture for a smoky, savory twist. - Spicy Kick:
Add a dash of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the cream sauce for a touch of heat. - Herbaceous Delight:
Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives to enhance the dish’s aroma and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a wide variety of dishes. Serve it alongside roasted turkey, honey-glazed ham, or prime rib for a complete holiday feast. It’s also an excellent accompaniment to mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and stuffing. For a lighter pairing, consider serving it with a crisp green salad or roasted root vegetables.
Why Your Guests Will Love It
This casserole is a nostalgic nod to tradition with a modern twist. Guests will appreciate the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients and the homemade touch. The balance of creamy, crunchy, and savory elements ensures that everyone will come back for seconds. Plus, it’s easy to make in advance, leaving you more time to enjoy the festivities.
Conclusion
The From-Scratch Green Bean and Mushroom Casserole is a recipe that truly stands the test of time. It combines the comfort of classic flavors with the vibrancy of fresh ingredients, making it a must-have at any holiday gathering. Whether you’re cooking for a large family dinner or a small gathering of friends, this dish delivers warmth, flavor, and joy in every bite.