Green Bean Casserole Classic
Creamy green bean casserole with tender beans, rich sauce, and crispy fried onions. Perfect holiday or comfort side dish with optional mushrooms and cheese for extra flavor.
Equipment
- 1 large pot for blanching green beans
- 1 large skillet to make sauce
- 1 baking dish for casserole
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh green beans trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces (or use thawed frozen)
- 10 ounces sliced mushrooms optional
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk whole or 2%
- 1 cup heavy cream optional
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1½ to 2 cups crispy fried onions store-bought or homemade
- Optional: sprinkle grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- If using fresh green beans, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch green beans for 5 to 7 minutes until bright green and just tender, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and cook chopped onion until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Sprinkle flour over onions and stir constantly for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk and cream (if using), stirring to prevent lumps.
- Cook sauce, whisking frequently, until thickened and coats the back of a spoon, approximately 5 to 7 minutes.
- Season sauce with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Add cooked green beans and sliced mushrooms to the sauce, stirring gently to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and evenly sprinkle crispy fried onions over the top.
- Optionally, sprinkle grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese before adding fried onions.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the sauce bubbles and onions turn golden brown.
- Allow casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving warm.
Notes
- Blanching fresh green beans preserves color and tenderness without mushiness.
- Sauté mushrooms briefly for deeper flavor and better texture.
- Assemble casserole up to one day ahead without topping; add onions before baking.
- Enhance topping crunch by mixing crushed crackers or panko with fried onions.
- Pairs well with roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or fresh green salad.