Introduction
Green bean casserole is a true classic dish that has found its way into countless family dinners and holiday celebrations. It is one of those comforting recipes that brings people together around the table. The combination of tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and crispy fried onions on top creates a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
Many people know green bean casserole from the store-bought canned versions that use cream of mushroom soup and pre-packaged fried onions. While those are convenient and popular, making this dish from scratch takes it to a whole new level. Fresh ingredients, a homemade mushroom sauce, and perfectly blanched green beans deliver a fresher taste that feels wholesome and satisfying.
Plus, when you make it yourself, you can control the quality and seasoning exactly how you like it. Whether you want to impress your guests or simply enjoy a delicious side dish for your next meal, this recipe will show you how to make green bean casserole from scratch with simple ingredients and easy steps.
The result is a rich, creamy, and crunchy casserole that everyone will want to eat again and again.
Ingredients Needed
To make a delicious green bean casserole from scratch, you will need fresh and simple ingredients. Fresh green beans are the star of this dish, so pick ones that are bright green and firm. The homemade creamy mushroom sauce is what makes this casserole special.
You will use butter, all-purpose flour, and milk to create a smooth sauce that coats the green beans perfectly. Fresh mushrooms and onions bring savory depth to the dish, and garlic adds a nice hint of aroma. A splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce helps boost the umami flavor, giving the casserole more complexity.
Finally, crispy fried onions on top provide that signature crunchy finish that makes green bean casserole so irresistible. You can buy these onions ready-made or make your own for an extra touch.
Here is a handy ingredients table with calorie counts to help you keep track of nutrition.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh green beans | 1 pound (about 4 cups) | 140 kcal |
| Butter | 3 tablespoons | 300 kcal |
| All-purpose flour | 3 tablespoons | 90 kcal |
| Whole milk | 1 cup | 150 kcal |
| Mushrooms (sliced) | 8 ounces | 40 kcal |
| Yellow onion (small) | 1/2 | 20 kcal |
| Garlic cloves | 2 (minced) | 8 kcal |
| Salt | To taste | 0 kcal |
| Black pepper | To taste | 0 kcal |
| Soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce | 1 teaspoon | 5 kcal |
| Crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade) | 1 cup | 120 kcal |
This recipe serves about six people, so adjust the amounts if you are cooking for a larger group.
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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making green bean casserole from scratch is easier than it sounds, and it does not take much time. The key is to start by preparing your fresh green beans properly.
First, wash and trim the ends of the green beans. Then blanch them by boiling in salted water for a few minutes until they turn bright green and become slightly tender. This step keeps the beans crisp but cooked just right. Immediately after boiling, transfer the beans to an ice bath to stop the cooking process and maintain their vibrant color. Drain them well and set aside while you prepare the mushroom sauce.
For the sauce, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and soft, which usually takes around three minutes. Next, add minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook these together until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown lightly, about five to seven minutes.
Now stir in the flour to coat the mushrooms and onions. Cooking the flour for a couple of minutes helps remove the raw flour taste and thickens the sauce. Gradually whisk in the milk while stirring constantly. This step is important to avoid lumps and create a smooth, creamy sauce.
Add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for depth, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens, usually about five minutes.
Once your sauce is ready, preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Combine the blanched green beans with the mushroom sauce in a large mixing bowl. Stir well to coat every bean in the creamy mixture.
Transfer everything into a greased baking dish and smooth the top. Finally, sprinkle a generous layer of crispy fried onions evenly over the casserole. Bake uncovered for twenty-five to thirty minutes or until the casserole bubbles and the onions turn golden brown and crispy.
The result is a casserole with tender green beans coated in a rich sauce and topped with a crunchy, flavorful crust.
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Tips for Customizing the Recipe
One of the best things about making green bean casserole from scratch is how easy it is to customize the recipe to your liking.
If you love cheese, try stirring in a cup of shredded cheddar or Gruyere cheese into the mushroom sauce before baking. It adds creaminess and a rich, savory note.
For a more earthy flavor, experiment with different mushroom varieties like cremini or shiitake instead of regular button mushrooms.
You can also make this dish vegan by replacing butter with olive oil or a plant-based margarine and using a non-dairy milk such as almond or oat milk. Vegan fried onions can be found in many stores or easily made at home by frying thinly sliced onions in oil until crispy.
To add a bit of extra crunch and texture, try mixing in some toasted sliced almonds or breadcrumbs on top before baking.
If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the mushroom sauce for a subtle spicy kick.
The beauty of this recipe is that it is very forgiving and flexible, so feel free to make it your own.
Nutritional Information
Green bean casserole made from scratch is a healthier alternative to canned versions that are often loaded with preservatives and excess sodium.
A serving of this casserole, assuming six servings in total, has approximately one hundred forty-five calories. It provides a good amount of protein from the milk and mushrooms and a modest amount of fat mainly from the butter.
The dish also contains fiber from the fresh green beans, which helps support digestion. Sodium levels will vary depending on how much salt and soy sauce you use, so adjust those to your dietary needs.
This casserole is a well-balanced side dish that brings vegetable goodness to your plate with creamy satisfaction without unnecessary additives.
Serving Suggestions
Green bean casserole is a versatile side that pairs well with many main courses. It is a staple at Thanksgiving dinner but can be enjoyed any time of year.
Serve it alongside roasted turkey, baked ham, or grilled chicken for a complete meal. It also goes beautifully with mashed potatoes, wild rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
For a fresh touch, garnish the casserole with chopped fresh herbs like thyme or parsley just before serving.
If you have leftovers, they reheat nicely in the oven or microwave and make a great side for sandwiches or simple weekday dinners.
This dish is always a crowd-pleaser and adds a comforting, home-cooked feel to any meal.
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Conclusion
Making green bean casserole from scratch is a rewarding and tasty way to enjoy this classic dish. By using fresh green beans and a homemade mushroom sauce, you elevate the flavors and textures far beyond the canned versions.
The creamy sauce and crispy onions combine perfectly to create a dish that is both satisfying and comforting. With easy steps and simple ingredients, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
Plus, it is easy to customize with cheese, different mushrooms, or vegan options. Whether for a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, this green bean casserole will become a favorite at your table.
Enjoy the freshness and flavor of this homemade classic every time.