Homemade Green Bean Casserole

A Homemade Green Bean Casserole recipe that you will absolutely love! The scratch-made, extra flavorful creamy mushroom sauce is the heart of this recipe (not a can in sight!). Tender yet crisp green beans, lots of nutty parmesan, and homemade crispy fried shallots that top this beauty. Loaded with flavor, textures, and ample deliciousness! Perfect side dish to pair alongside holiday mains and beyond!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Sauce: The creamy mushroom sauce made from scratch elevates the dish, offering rich flavors.
• Crispy Topping: Homemade fried shallots add a delightful crunch and texture that complements the tender green beans.
• Versatile Side Dish: This casserole works well for holidays or any family meal, making it a go-to recipe.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you’ll have a delicious casserole ready in under an hour.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh green beans and high-quality ingredients enhances the overall taste.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Homemade Green Bean Casserole, having the right tools makes the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• A large skillet
• Mixing bowls
• A baking dish
• A sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables and creating your creamy sauce without crowding.
• Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently, making your prep work easier.
• Baking Dish: A sturdy dish ensures even cooking and allows for easy serving once baked.
• Sharp Knife: Ensures clean cuts when slicing shallots and mushrooms, enhancing presentation.

Ingredients

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 (divided)

How to Make Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Crispy Shallots

• Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the sliced shallots carefully to avoid splatter. Fry until golden brown, about 5–7 minutes.
• Remove shallots from oil and drain on paper towels. Season with Creole Cajun seasoning while still warm.

Step 2: Cook the Green Beans

• In the same skillet, boil water and add trimmed green beans. Cook for 3–4 minutes until bright green but still crisp.
• Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Mushroom Sauce

• In the skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and garlic; sauté until mushrooms are soft.
• Sprinkle flour over the mixture. Stir constantly for about a minute to cook off raw flour taste.
• Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Finish the Sauce

• Stir in lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, red pepper flakes, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
• Add heavy whipping cream or half-and-half. Simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes until thickened.

Step 5: Assemble & Bake

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a baking dish, combine green beans with mushroom sauce. Mix well to coat evenly.
• Top with half of the crispy shallots and sprinkle remaining parmesan cheese on top.
• Bake for about 15 minutes until bubbly. Remove from oven and add remaining shallots before serving.

Enjoy your delightful Homemade Green Bean Casserole at your next meal!

How to Serve Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Serving Homemade Green Bean Casserole can elevate any meal, especially during festive occasions. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will complement this creamy dish beautifully.

Family Style

• Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish to the table for a warm, inviting presentation that encourages sharing.

Individual Portions

• For a more elegant touch, spoon the casserole into individual ramekins. This adds a personal feel and is great for dinner parties.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each serving with freshly chopped parsley or thyme to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

With a Side Salad

• A simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole, providing a refreshing contrast.

Paired with Bread

• Serve with crusty bread or rolls to soak up the delicious sauce, enhancing the overall dining experience.

As Part of a Buffet

• Include the casserole on a buffet table among other sides, making it an appealing option for guests to enjoy at their leisure.

How to Perfect Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Creating the perfect Homemade Green Bean Casserole involves attention to detail and some handy tips. Follow these suggestions for optimal results.

• Choose Fresh Green Beans: Use fresh green beans for better texture and flavor compared to canned ones.
• Make Your Own Crispy Shallots: Fry shallots until golden brown for that irresistible crunch instead of using store-bought.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go while adding seasoning; this helps achieve balanced flavors in your sauce.
• Use Quality Broth: Opt for homemade or high-quality chicken broth to enhance the depth of flavor in your casserole.
• Don’t Overcook Beans: Blanch green beans briefly before mixing them into the casserole; they should remain tender-crisp.
• Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking; this helps it set and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Pairing Homemade Green Bean Casserole with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal’s appeal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with roasted garlic add richness and comfort to your dinner.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts bring a nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with the casserole’s creaminess.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with veggies offers a nutritious balance alongside this rich dish.
4. Sweet Potato Casserole: The sweetness of baked sweet potatoes provides an excellent contrast to savory flavors.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Fluffy cornbread muffins are perfect for soaking up extra sauce from the casserole while adding warmth.
6. Stuffed Acorn Squash: Savory stuffed squash adds seasonal flair and showcases autumn flavors that pair well together.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will help you achieve the best Homemade Green Bean Casserole. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using canned ingredients: Relying on canned soup or beans can lead to a less flavorful dish. Opt for fresh green beans and homemade sauces for better taste.
• Overcooking the green beans: Cooking the beans too long can make them mushy. Blanch them until just tender for a perfect texture in your casserole.
• Skipping seasoning: Failing to season your sauce can leave it bland. Use Creole seasoning and other spices generously to enhance the flavor profile.
• Not preparing crispy shallots properly: If shallots are not fried correctly, they may turn soggy. Ensure they are thinly sliced and fried until golden brown for the right crunch.
• Neglecting cheese variety: Using only one type of cheese may limit flavor depth. Combine different cheeses like parmesan and cheddar for a richer taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Homemade Green Bean Casserole in an airtight container.
• It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Homemade Green Bean Casserole

• Freeze casserole in a freezer-safe container if you want to store it longer.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Homemade Green Bean Casserole

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I customize my Homemade Green Bean Casserole?

You can add different vegetables like mushrooms or corn for added flavor and texture. Experiment with herbs like rosemary or parsley as well!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare everything up to the baking step and refrigerate overnight. Bake just before serving.

What is the best way to serve Homemade Green Bean Casserole?

This casserole pairs excellently with roasted chicken or turkey, making it a great side dish for holiday meals or family gatherings.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and skip any meat additions while maintaining all other ingredients.

How do I ensure my sauce is creamy?

Whisk flour into butter thoroughly before adding broth gradually. This creates a smooth base that results in a creamy sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Green Bean Casserole is not just delicious but also versatile enough to fit any meal occasion. Its rich flavors and textures make it perfect for holidays and everyday dining alike! Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings according to your taste preferences.