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

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh ingredients and a creamy mushroom sauce creates an irresistible taste.
• Homemade Goodness: No canned soups here! Everything is made from scratch for ultimate freshness.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or a cozy dinner at home.
• Crispy Topping: The fried shallots add a delightful crunch that elevates the entire dish.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you’ll have a beautiful casserole ready in no time!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes cooking much smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Saucepan
• Baking dish
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep frying pan: Ideal for frying shallots evenly and achieving that perfect crunch.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Saucepan: Essential for preparing the creamy mushroom sauce on the stovetop.

Ingredients

For the Crispy Shallots

• 4 medium shallots (halved lengthwise & then sliced thinly into half moons)
• 1 cup vegetable oil

For the Casserole

• Creole Cajun Seasoning – homemade or store-bought (or seasoned salt), to taste
• 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 Shallots

• Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
• Add the sliced shallots to the hot oil in batches. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3–5 minutes.
• Remove them with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Sprinkle with salt.

Step 2: Cook the Green Beans

• In a large pot of boiling salted water, blanch the green beans for about 3 minutes until they are bright green but still crisp.
• Drain them and immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop cooking. Once cool, drain again.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Mushroom Sauce

• In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until browned.
• Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
• Sprinkle flour over mushrooms and stir continuously for about 2 minutes.
• Gradually whisk in chicken broth. Continue whisking until thickened.
• Add lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, red pepper flakes, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

• In a mixing bowl, combine blanched green beans with the creamy mushroom sauce.
• Fold in half of the grated parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Bake

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and top with remaining parmesan cheese.
• Bake in preheated oven for about 25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Step 6: Serve

• Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving topped with crispy shallots. Enjoy your Homemade Green Bean Casserole!

How to Serve Homemade Green Bean Casserole

This Homemade Green Bean Casserole is a delightful side dish that pairs beautifully with various mains. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Roasted Proteins

• Herb-Roasted Chicken: The juicy, flavorful chicken complements the creamy texture of the casserole.
• Garlic Butter Shrimp: Sweet and succulent shrimp add a seafood twist that contrasts nicely with the green beans.

Complement with Fresh Salads

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette will balance the richness of the casserole.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and tangy dressing offer a classic pairing that enhances your meal.

Add Some Grains

• Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf can add an earthy element to your plate.
• Wild Rice Medley: The chewy texture of wild rice pairs well with the creamy sauce in the casserole.

How to Perfect Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Creating the perfect Homemade Green Bean Casserole requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh green beans and mushrooms provide better flavor and texture than canned alternatives.
• Don’t Overcook Beans: Blanch green beans until just tender to keep them crisp in the final dish.
• Make Your Own Fried Shallots: Homemade shallots have a fresher taste than store-bought, adding depth to your casserole.
• Balance Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more Creole Cajun seasoning for desired flavor.
• Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix different cheeses like Gruyère or cheddar for added richness.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking helps settle flavors and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Homemade Green Bean Casserole pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some top recommendations that will make your meal even more satisfying.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these mashed potatoes are always a hit at any gathering.
2. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots provide a lovely contrast to savory dishes.
3. Creamed Spinach: This rich side adds a velvety texture that complements green bean casserole perfectly.
4. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances the savory flavors while providing great nutrition.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy, caramelized sprouts enhance the meal’s texture and earthiness.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Soft and slightly sweet cornbread offers a comforting addition that everyone will love.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Homemade Green Bean Casserole can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using canned ingredients: Relying on canned green beans or soup can lead to a bland dish. Instead, use fresh green beans and make your own creamy mushroom sauce for richer flavors.

• Overcooking the green beans: Overcooked green beans become mushy and lose their vibrant color. Blanch them briefly before adding them to the casserole to keep them crisp-tender.

• Skipping seasoning: Neglecting spices can make your casserole taste flat. Use Creole Cajun seasoning or seasoned salt to add depth and flavor in every bite.

• Not using enough cheese: Skimping on parmesan will reduce the dish’s savory richness. Ensure you incorporate plenty of freshly grated parmesan throughout the casserole for a deliciously cheesy finish.

• Ignoring texture: A lack of crispy toppings makes the casserole less exciting. Be sure to prepare homemade crispy fried shallots for that perfect crunch on top.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Homemade Green Bean Casserole

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or place in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months; label with the date for reference.

Reheating Homemade Green Bean Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish. Heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a Homemade Green Bean Casserole.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in Homemade Green Bean Casserole?

You can use half-and-half, coconut cream, or a plant-based cream alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option without sacrificing creaminess.

Can I use frozen green beans instead?

Yes! Frozen green beans work well; just ensure they are thawed and drained before adding them to your casserole to maintain the right texture.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Homemade Green Bean Casserole?

Consider adding sautéed garlic or onion, or incorporating different herbs like rosemary or dill for an extra layer of flavor.

Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it up to a day in advance, store it covered in the fridge, and bake it just before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Green Bean Casserole is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. With its creamy mushroom sauce and crispy shallots, it’s sure to impress at holiday dinners or casual gatherings alike. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or different seasonings!