Homemade Green Bean Casserole

If you’re looking for a recipe that combines comfort, flavor, and simplicity, then my Homemade Green Bean Casserole is just what you need! This dish has been a staple in my home for years. It takes the classic green bean casserole to a whole new level with a creamy mushroom sauce made from scratch—no cans here! Each bite of this casserole brings together tender green beans, nutty parmesan, and crispy fried shallots that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family gathering, this casserole is the perfect side dish to complement any meal. Trust me; once you try this homemade version, you’ll never look at store-bought casseroles the same way again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Homemade goodness: The creamy mushroom sauce is made from fresh ingredients, giving it an unbeatable flavor.
• Perfect for gatherings: This dish serves 8, making it ideal for family dinners or holiday celebrations.
• Easy preparation: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, anyone can whip this up with ease.
• Kid-approved: The combination of flavors makes it a hit with kids and adults alike!
• Versatile side dish: Pair it with your favorite mains or enjoy it on its own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Homemade Green Bean Casserole, you’ll use simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dish:

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 cheese (divided)

Variations

One of the best things about this Homemade Green Bean Casserole is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add protein: Toss in some cooked chicken or turkey for a heartier dish that’s perfect as an entree.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute cashew cream for heavy whipping cream and nutritional yeast for parmesan to keep it plant-based.
• Mix in other veggies: Add diced carrots or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, try adding more red pepper flakes or even some jalapeños for a kick!

How to Make Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Fried Shallots

Start by frying those shallots! In a saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced shallots and cook until they turn golden brown. This adds an incredible crunch and sweetness to your casserole. Remember to keep an eye on them – they can go from perfectly fried to burnt in no time!

Step 2: Cook the Green Beans

While your shallots are frying, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the trimmed green beans and blanch them for about 5 minutes until bright green but still crisp. Drain and set aside. Blanching helps retain their vibrant color and crunchiness in the final dish.

Step 3: Make the Mushroom Sauce

In a skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add sliced baby bella mushrooms and garlic; sauté until tender. Stirring frequently enhances their flavors. Sprinkle in flour to help thicken your sauce. Gradually whisk in chicken broth while cooking until smooth. Add lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), nutmeg, salt, pepper, heavy cream, and half of the parmesan cheese.

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large baking dish, combine blanched green beans with your creamy mushroom sauce. Mix well so every green bean gets coated in that luscious sauce. Top with remaining parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake your casserole for about 25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Finally, sprinkle those crispy fried shallots over the top just before serving for that delightful crunch!

And there you have it—a Homemade Green Bean Casserole that’s sure to impress at any gathering! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Making this Homemade Green Bean Casserole is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you can ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh green beans and baby bella mushrooms will enhance the flavor and texture of your casserole, making it taste vibrant and homemade.

• Don’t Skip the Shallots: Crispy fried shallots add a wonderful crunch and depth of flavor that elevates this dish. They’re simple to make and absolutely worth the effort!

• Adjust the Seasoning: Tasting as you go is key! Customize the seasoning to your liking by adjusting the Creole Cajun seasoning or adding more herbs for a personal touch.

• Make It Ahead: You can prepare the mushroom sauce and green beans in advance. Just combine them before baking, which makes it easier for holiday gatherings or busy weeknights.

• Experiment with Cheese: While parmesan is delicious, feel free to mix in other cheese options like Gruyère or cheddar for a different flavor profile that suits your taste.

How to Serve Homemade Green Bean Casserole

This casserole not only tastes amazing but also looks stunning on any table. Here are some ideas on how to present this dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme adds color and freshness, enhancing both the look and taste of your casserole.
• Lemon Zest: A light grating of lemon zest right before serving brightens up the flavors and adds a zesty kick that compliments the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with roasted garlic provide a rich, comforting side that pairs perfectly with the crunchy texture of green bean casserole.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed with olive oil and sea salt, these caramelized sprouts offer a delightful contrast in flavor while contributing to a balanced meal.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette adds freshness and balances out the richness of the casserole.
• Stuffed Acorn Squash: Sweet acorn squash stuffed with wild rice and cranberries brings seasonal flair and sweetness to your plate, complementing the savory green beans beautifully.

With these serving suggestions, your Homemade Green Bean Casserole will shine on any table—whether it’s Thanksgiving dinner or an everyday meal! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Homemade Green Bean Casserole is not only a delightful dish for any gathering but also perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it ahead of time, making your holiday or weeknight dinners a breeze!

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

• Prepare the casserole as directed but do not bake it.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake covered for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through. Uncover for the last 10 minutes for a crispy topping.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious casserole that you might find helpful!

Can I make Homemade Green Bean Casserole without dairy?

Yes! You can substitute heavy whipping cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream to keep the recipe dairy-free.

What can I use instead of shallots in Homemade Green Bean Casserole?

You can use onions as a substitute if you don’t have shallots on hand. They will add a different flavor but still be delicious!

How long does Homemade Green Bean Casserole last in the fridge?

Homemade Green Bean Casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when kept in an airtight container.

Can I use frozen green beans for this casserole?

Absolutely! If using frozen green beans, make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before adding them to your casserole.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Homemade Green Bean Casserole as much as I do! It’s a heartwarming dish that brings comfort and joy, perfect for sharing with family and friends at your next gathering. Don’t hesitate to try it out; I’m sure it will become a beloved favorite in your home. Happy cooking!