Homemade Green Bean Casserole

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that brings everyone together, then this Homemade Green Bean Casserole is just what you need! This recipe has been a cherished favorite in my family for years. What makes it truly special is the creamy mushroom sauce made from scratch—no canned soup here! It’s rich, flavorful, and perfectly complements the tender yet crisp green beans. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday gathering, this casserole fits right in and always impresses.

The combination of nutty parmesan and homemade crispy fried shallots on top adds delightful texture and flavor. Trust me; once you try this homemade version, you won’t want to go back to the store-bought kind!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, this casserole comes together quickly, making it perfect for any occasion.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves creamy comfort food! This dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh ingredients and homemade sauce creates a dish that’s rich in taste.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect alongside your favorite mains or as part of a potluck spread.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these simple, wholesome ingredients to create your delicious Homemade Green Bean Casserole. Each component plays an important role in building layers of flavor that make this dish so memorable.

For the Crispy 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

This Homemade Green Bean Casserole is quite flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients while still keeping that comforting essence.

• Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some sliced bell peppers or carrots for an added crunch and color.
• Cheese Lovers Delight: Mix in other cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a different flavor profile.
• Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a bit of heat!
• Nutty Twist: Sprinkle some toasted nuts on top before serving for an added crunch and nuttiness.

How to Make Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Crispy Shallots

Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the thinly sliced shallots. Cook them until they are golden brown and crispy. This step is key because these shallots will add that delicious crunch on top of your casserole! Once ready, remove them from the skillet and let them drain on paper towels.

Step 2: Cook the Green Beans

In another pot, bring water to a rolling boil. Add the trimmed green beans and cook for about 5 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. This blanching step helps maintain their vibrant color and prevents them from becoming mushy in the oven later on.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Mushroom Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and sauté until they’re soft and have released their moisture. Stir in minced garlic, cooking just until fragrant. Then sprinkle flour over the mushrooms, stirring constantly until combined—this will help thicken your sauce. Gradually whisk in chicken broth while cooking over medium heat until it thickens beautifully.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Once your sauce has thickened, stir in lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), nutmeg, salt, pepper, and cream. Finally, fold in the cooked green beans gently so they’re well coated with that luscious sauce.

Step 5: Bake Your Casserole

Transfer everything into a baking dish and sprinkle half of the grated parmesan on top. Bake at 350°F for about 25 minutes until bubbly. In those last few minutes of baking, toss your crispy shallots on top along with any remaining parmesan for extra cheesiness!

I hope this Homemade Green Bean Casserole becomes as beloved in your home as it is in mine! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Homemade Green Bean Casserole

To help you achieve the best homemade green bean casserole, here are some handy tips that will elevate your dish to the next level!

• Use Fresh Green Beans: Fresh green beans provide a vibrant color and a satisfying crunch compared to canned ones. They also absorb the creamy sauce better, enhancing the overall flavor.

• Cook Shallots Properly: Sautéing shallots until they’re golden brown ensures they develop a deep, sweet flavor that adds richness to your casserole. This step is essential for that homemade touch!

• Adjust Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go! A little extra salt or a dash more of Creole seasoning can make all the difference in achieving a well-balanced dish.

• Crispy Topping is Key: For those delicious fried shallots, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying. This will give you that perfect crunch, making every bite delightful!

• Let it Rest: After baking, let your casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to serve without falling apart.

How to Serve Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Presenting your homemade green bean casserole beautifully can make all the difference at the dinner table. With its delightful texture and creamy sauce, it’s sure to be a showstopper!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the casserole.
• Toasted Almonds: A handful of toasted almonds sprinkled on top provides an extra layer of crunch and a subtle nutty flavor.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic create a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with the casserole’s richness.
• Glazed Carrots: Sweet glazed carrots add a burst of color and sweetness that balances out the savory notes of your green bean casserole.
• Herb-Roasted Chicken: Juicy chicken seasoned with fresh herbs offers a hearty protein option that complements this veggie side dish nicely.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with fresh vegetables and a lemon vinaigrette brings brightness to your meal while keeping it healthy and satisfying.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your homemade green bean casserole will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on any dining table! Enjoy sharing this delicious creation with friends and family during special occasions or cozy weeknight dinners.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Homemade Green Bean Casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, saving you precious minutes on busy days or holiday gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Prepare the casserole as per the instructions but do not bake it.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover the casserole with foil and bake for about 25-30 minutes until heated through.
• For a crisp topping, uncover for the last 10 minutes of baking.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious dish!

Can I make Homemade Green Bean Casserole without heavy cream?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative if you prefer a lighter version.

How do I store my Homemade Green Bean Casserole?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing before baking.

Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to your casserole for the best texture!

What can I serve with Homemade Green Bean Casserole?

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, grilled chicken, or even as a hearty side for vegetarian mains like stuffed peppers.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Homemade Green Bean Casserole brings warmth and joy to your table! It’s a comforting dish packed with flavor that will surely impress your family and friends. Enjoy making this recipe and savoring every bite! Your special occasions just got a little more delicious—happy cooking!