Save A nostalgic, creamy side dish featuring tender green beans, savory mushrooms, and crispy fried onions—a classic for holiday feasts and family dinners.
I first tasted this classic green bean casserole at a family Thanksgiving many years ago. The golden, crunchy onions on top were so irresistible that everyone went back for seconds. Over time, it became a must-have on our holiday table, bringing comfort and nostalgia with every bite.
Ingredients
- Fresh green beans: 900 g (2 lb), trimmed and cut into 5 cm (2-inch) pieces (or substitute with 900 g frozen cut green beans, thawed and drained)
- Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp
- Cremini or button mushrooms: 250 g (9 oz), sliced
- Yellow onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- Garlic cloves: 2, minced
- All-purpose flour: 2 tbsp
- Whole milk: 240 ml (1 cup)
- Heavy cream: 120 ml (½ cup)
- Low-sodium vegetable broth: 120 ml (½ cup)
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: ½ tsp
- Ground nutmeg: ½ tsp (optional)
- Crispy fried onions: 150 g (1½ cups), store-bought or homemade
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Prepare green beans:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add green beans and cook for 5 minutes until just tender but still bright green. Drain and immediately rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
- Cook vegetables:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add mushrooms and cook for 5-6 minutes until tender and browned. Add onion and garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Make sauce:
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in milk, cream, and broth. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
- Combine beans and sauce:
- Add the drained green beans to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
- Assemble casserole:
- Transfer the mixture to a 2-liter (2-quart) baking dish. Sprinkle half of the crispy fried onions on top.
- Bake:
- Bake for 25 minutes until bubbling. Remove from oven, top with remaining onions, and bake for 5-7 minutes more until golden and crisp.
- Rest and serve:
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Save This casserole is always requested at family dinners and has become an annual tradition. Its familiar flavors connect generations around the table and make each gathering special.
Preparation and Cooking Tips
Trim and cut green beans in advance to save time. For extra flavor, add a bit of sharp cheddar or Gruyère cheese to the sauce base when simmering.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this casserole with roast turkey, chicken, or add to a vegetarian holiday spread alongside mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) to restore crispiness to the onion topping.
Save Tuck extra crispy onions on top just before serving for a satisfying crunch. This retro dish brings smiles to every holiday table.
Recipe Guide
- → Can frozen green beans be used?
Yes, frozen cut green beans can be substituted after thawing and draining to maintain texture and flavor.
- → How can I make the topping crispier?
Bake the fried onions separately until golden before adding to ensure they stay extra crispy on top.
- → What cheese can enhance the flavor?
Adding grated sharp cheddar or Gruyère to the sauce creates a richer, deeper taste profile.
- → Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead?
Yes, assemble through the sauce and green beans step, refrigerate up to 24 hours, and add onions before baking.
- → What pairs well with this dish?
It complements roast turkey, chicken, or other savory mains, enriching holiday or family dinners.