Homemade Green Bean Casserole

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that brings a smile to every table, you’ve found it! This Homemade Green Bean Casserole is not just any casserole; it’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures that has become a family favorite in my home. The creamy mushroom sauce is made from scratch, which means no cans involved—just pure, wholesome goodness.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings alike. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner or just trying to spice up your meal prep routine, this casserole checks all the boxes: it’s hearty, delicious, and will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Made from Scratch: Enjoy the rich taste of homemade creamy mushroom sauce that elevates the dish beyond the ordinary.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love this comforting side, making it ideal for family dinners.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, this recipe is straightforward enough for beginner cooks.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy weeknight meal or a holiday feast, this casserole fits right in.
• Flexible Ingredients: Swap in your favorite veggies or spices to make this dish uniquely yours.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Homemade Green Bean Casserole is easy and fun! These are simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your kitchen.

For the Fried 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 (divided)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or what flavors you love.

• Add Other Veggies: Toss in some sautéed carrots or bell peppers for added color and nutrients.
• Make it Vegan: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a plant-based option.
• Spice it Up: Add some chopped jalapeños or more red pepper flakes if you like a little kick.
• Cheesy Twist: Mix in your favorite cheese alongside the parmesan for extra creaminess.

How to Make Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Fried Shallots

Start by frying the shallots until they are golden brown and crispy. Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the shallots, stirring occasionally. This step is crucial as it adds a delightful crunch and enhances the flavor profile of your casserole.

Step 2: Blanch the Green Beans

In another pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the trimmed green beans and blanch them for about 3-5 minutes until they are bright green but still crisp. This process locks in their vibrant color and helps retain their texture during baking.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Mushroom Sauce

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and minced garlic, cooking until softened. Sprinkle flour over them and stir well. Gradually pour in chicken broth while stirring continuously until smooth. Adding lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, red pepper flakes, nutmeg, salt, and pepper creates an aromatic base that makes this casserole truly special.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

In a large bowl, mix together the blanched green beans with your creamy mushroom sauce. Fold in half of your freshly grated parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor. Pour everything into a baking dish and top with those crispy fried shallots along with any remaining parmesan.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake your casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Enjoy sharing this Homemade Green Bean Casserole with loved ones; it’s sure to be cherished just as much as it is in my home!

Pro Tips for Making Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Making this casserole from scratch is a breeze with a few handy tips to ensure that yours turns out creamy, flavorful, and perfectly textured!

• Use fresh green beans: Fresh green beans offer a vibrant crunch and flavor that frozen or canned options simply can’t match. Trim the ends carefully for the best presentation.

• Sauté shallots until golden: Cooking the shallots until they’re golden brown not only adds depth to the flavor but also gives your casserole a beautiful color contrast and a delightful crunch.

• Don’t skip the seasoning: Adding Creole Cajun seasoning (or seasoned salt) is essential to elevate the dish. This step enhances the overall flavor profile, making each bite deliciously memorable.

• Incorporate lemon juice: A touch of fresh lemon juice brightens up the creamy sauce and balances out the richness. This little addition makes a significant difference in taste!

• Top with extra cheese: Adding an extra sprinkle of parmesan before baking creates a golden, cheesy crust that adds both flavor and texture. Who can resist that?

How to Serve Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Serving your homemade green bean casserole can be as delightful as preparing it! Here are some ideas to make your presentation shine.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy casserole.
• Toasted breadcrumbs: For an added crunch, sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs on top right before serving. It’s an easy way to enhance texture without much fuss.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Potatoes: Perfectly crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with rosemary or garlic make for a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with the creaminess of the casserole.
• Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots glazed with honey add a lovely sweetness to your plate, balancing out savory flavors.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of your casserole.
• Stuffed Acorn Squash: If you’re looking for something hearty yet healthy, stuffed acorn squash filled with grains and nuts makes for an impressive side that’s deliciously complementary.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Homemade Green Bean Casserole will not only impress at any gathering but also become a cherished recipe in your home! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Homemade Green Bean Casserole is not only a delightful dish but also a fantastic option for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy the comforting flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Cool the casserole completely before freezing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months. For best quality, consume within a month.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• You can also microwave individual portions on high until warm.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries that may help you out.

Can I make Homemade Green Bean Casserole without heavy cream?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even a plant-based alternative like coconut cream for a lighter version.

What kind of green beans should I use for my Homemade Green Bean Casserole?

Fresh green beans are recommended for their crisp texture and vibrant flavor. However, you can also use frozen green beans if fresh ones are unavailable—just ensure they are thawed and drained well before using.

How do I ensure my Homemade Green Bean Casserole doesn’t become too watery?

Make sure to sauté the mushrooms thoroughly to release excess moisture before adding them to the sauce. Additionally, allowing the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking will help thicken it up nicely!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Homemade Green Bean Casserole becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen as it has in mine! With its rich flavors and delightful textures, it’s perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. Enjoy making it as much as I enjoyed sharing this recipe with you! Feel free to get creative and make it your own; I can’t wait for you to try it!