Introduction
A warm, comforting green bean casserole has long been a holiday favorite, but when made vegan, it becomes a dish that everyone can enjoy guilt-free. The creamy sauce, the tender green beans, and the crisp fried onions on top come together to form a dish that feels both nostalgic and modern. Vegan cooking allows you to enjoy all the richness and flavor of the classic version without using any animal products, making it suitable for every kind of guest at your table.
The best part about this vegan green bean casserole is how satisfying it tastes. You still get the creamy texture, the savory depth, and that familiar crisp topping, but with plant-based ingredients that are lighter and more nourishing. The secret lies in building layers of flavor through simple techniques—sautéing vegetables, blending creamy sauces, and baking everything until bubbly and golden.
Whether it’s for Thanksgiving, a Sunday family dinner, or a cozy meal in the middle of the week, this vegan casserole feels comforting yet fresh. It is not only wholesome but also beautifully balanced. The combination of textures—from the creamy base to the crunchy topping—makes every bite memorable. This version captures the heart of the traditional recipe while staying true to a compassionate, plant-based lifestyle.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh green beans (trimmed) | 1 pound | 130 |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | 240 |
| Yellow onion (chopped) | 1 medium | 45 |
| Garlic cloves (minced) | 3 | 15 |
| Mushrooms (sliced) | 2 cups | 30 |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tablespoons | 60 |
| Vegetable broth | 1 cup | 15 |
| Unsweetened almond milk | 1 cup | 30 |
| Soy sauce | 1 tablespoon | 10 |
| Nutritional yeast | 2 tablespoons | 40 |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | 0 |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon | 3 |
| Crispy fried onions | 1 cup | 160 |
These ingredients come together to form a delicious casserole that’s creamy, flavorful, and full of comforting texture. The mushrooms create a rich base for the sauce, while almond milk and vegetable broth keep it light and dairy-free. Nutritional yeast adds that subtle cheesy taste that makes the dish feel indulgent.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Wash and trim the green beans then boil in salted water for four minutes.
- Shock the beans in ice water to stop cooking and keep color.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook chopped onion until soft.
- Add minced garlic and cook for one minute until fragrant.
- Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release moisture and brown.
- Stir in flour then slowly add vegetable broth while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Pour in almond milk and soy sauce and simmer until the sauce thickens.
- Mix nutritional yeast salt and pepper into the sauce and taste for seasoning.
- Combine beans with the sauce in a greased baking dish and top with half the onions.
- Bake at 375°F for twenty to twenty five minutes then add remaining onions and bake five minutes more.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
A vegan green bean casserole can be adjusted in many ways to suit different tastes and textures. If you prefer a thicker sauce, add an extra tablespoon of flour during cooking. For a creamier flavor, replace almond milk with oat or coconut milk. Each type of milk adds its own character to the dish.
You can also experiment with additional vegetables like carrots, celery, or peas for more color and variety. For a hint of spice, sprinkle in a bit of smoked paprika or crushed red pepper. If you enjoy a cheesy taste, increase the amount of nutritional yeast or add a handful of vegan cheese shreds before baking.
For a completely homemade experience, try making your own crispy onion topping. Coat thinly sliced onions in flour and bake them until crisp instead of using store-bought ones. It adds a fresh and wholesome touch.
If you are preparing this dish for a holiday meal, you can make it a day ahead. Simply assemble the casserole without baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it as directed until hot and bubbling.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of vegan green bean casserole (based on 6 servings) approximately contains:
- Calories: 240
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 430mg
The dish is light yet satisfying, providing a balance of nutrients while keeping the flavors rich and comforting. It’s a great choice for those following a vegan lifestyle or anyone looking to add more plant-based meals to their diet.
Serving Suggestions
Vegan green bean casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes. Serve it alongside roasted tofu, vegan meatloaf, or mashed potatoes for a complete comfort meal. It also complements lighter dishes like quinoa salad or lentil loaf for a wholesome balance.
For a festive spread, serve it as part of a holiday table with stuffing, cranberry sauce, and roasted vegetables. The creamy texture and savory flavor help balance other sides and make it a favorite among both vegans and non-vegans.
You can also serve leftovers as a filling for wraps or as a topping over toasted bread for a quick and tasty lunch. When reheating, add a splash of almond milk to keep the texture creamy and fresh.
Conclusion
Vegan green bean casserole captures everything people love about traditional comfort food while keeping it wholesome and cruelty-free. The creamy sauce, tender vegetables, and crisp topping come together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that feels both indulgent and nourishing.
Making it from scratch brings a sense of pride and joy to the kitchen. The aroma, the bubbling sauce, and the golden topping make it a delight to prepare and serve. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something cozy, this vegan version ensures everyone at the table can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal that feels full of care and heart.
