Okay, friends, let me tell you about a dish that screams “holidays” in my family. Green Bean Casserole. It’s not just a side, it’ll be the best. A warm hug on the plate. I know some folks think of it as a “meh” dish, but trust me, this recipe? This is not your average can-of-soup-dumped-on-beans What is Grandma’s secret recipe? If you think of it as the Thanksgiving version of mac and cheese – comforting, crowd-pleasing and delicious, I’d recommend it. Is it true that you are on the right track? I’m talking creamy, crunchy, savory perfection that even the green bean haters will devour. What’s the best green bean casserole you’ve ever had?
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What is green bean casserole?
What is a green bean casserole? What is this baked dish? Green beans in a creamy sauce, topped with crispy bacon. Think of it as a savory comfort food hug. What is the best way to make green beans into something truly special? Is it special and craveable? What is the magic of details? What is the perfect balance of flavor, crispiness, and quality of the sauce? What are the ingredients that elevate it from a simple side dish to an upscale holiday staple? Is it a must-have at Thanksgiving and Christmas in my family, and I bet it’ll become one in yours too.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Honestly, where do I even begin? This recipe is amazing, and I’m not just saying that because it’s my grandma’s. What I love most about this is the flavor – it’s savory, creamy, and has that perfect umami richness that just keeps you coming back for more. It’s SO much better than the canned soup versions. The creamy sauce isn’t gloopy or artificial-tasting; it’s luscious and flavorful.
But beyond the taste, it’s SO easy to make! Seriously, don’t let the word “casserole” intimidate you. This one comes together in a snap. It’s also a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you want something comforting and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s pretty budget-friendly too. Green beans are inexpensive, and you probably already have most of the other ingredients in your pantry. This Green Bean Casserole is also surprisingly versatile. You can serve it as a side dish with just about anything, from roasted chicken to grilled steak. You can even add cooked mushrooms or bacon for extra flavor! It’s similar to a scalloped potatoes recipe, but lighter, fresher, and definitely more green!
How do I make a green bean casserole?
Quick Overview
How do I make a green bean casserole? How do I make a creamy sauce? How do you mix green beans? ), pour the sauce over them, and top with those gloriously crispy fried onions. When it’s golden brown, you bake it until bubbly and brown. How do you cook green beans? Is the end result worth it?
Ingredients
For the Main Casserole:
* 2 tablespoons butter: Unsalted is best, so you can control the saltiness of the dish.
* 1 medium onion, chopped: Yellow or white onion works perfectly. I prefer yellow for its slightly sweeter flavor.
* 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is always best, but you can use ½ teaspoon of garlic powder in a pinch.
* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: This helps to thicken the sauce. You can use gluten-free all-purpose flour if needed.
* 2 cups milk: I always use whole milk for the creamiest sauce, but 2% will also work. I’ve even tested this with almond milk, and it actually made it even creamier!
* 1 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste.
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground pepper is always the way to go!
* 1 pound green beans, trimmed: Fresh or frozen (thawed) work great. If using fresh, blanch them for a few minutes first to ensure they’re tender-crisp.
* 1 (6-ounce) can crispy fried onions: I always go for the name brand because I think they taste the best. But use whatever you like!
How do I follow
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. How do you keep a casserole from sticking? I always use a glass dish because it distributes the heat evenly and looks pretty on the table.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. What should I do to avoid burning the garlic?
Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over the cooked onions and garlic, and stir constantly for about 1 minute. Slowly whisk in the milk until smooth. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the pan to prevent the sauce from sticking.
Step 4: Add Green Beans
Add the green beans to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Stir to coat them evenly. If you’re using fresh green beans, make sure they’ve been tender-crisp before adding them to the sauce.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
In a large baking dish, pour the green bean mixture into the prepared dish. Spread it evenly. How do I cook everything evenly?
Step 6: Top with Fried Onions
Sprinkle the crispy fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole. I always save a few onions to sprinkle on top after baking for extra crunch.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the fried onions are crisp. Are they golden brown? If the onions start to brown too quickly, you can tent the casserole with foil.
Step 8: Cool & Serve
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the sauce to thicken up a bit. Garnish with extra fried onions, if desired. I also like to sprinkle on a little fresh parsley for a pop of color.
What is the best way to serve it?
Green Bean Casserole is a great side dish. What are some of my favorite serving suggestions?
For Thanksgiving/ChristmasIs it a must-have alongside turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce? I always make sure to have a big spoonful of green beans next to my turkey on Thanksgiving!
For weeknight dinners:Serve with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked ham. What is a quick and easy way to add vegetables to your meal?
For Potlucks: Green Bean Casserole is always a hit at potlucks. It’s easy to transport and everyone loves it!
What is a vegetarian meal?Pair it with a hearty lentil loaf or vegetarian wellington. It adds a creamy, savory element to the meal.
My family tradition is to serve it alongside my Mom’s famous meatloaf, which has been passed down down the generations. Is there any single What is a perfect comfort food duo?
How do I make a green bean casserole?
How do I take my green bean casserole to the next level?
What is the difference between frozen and fresh green beans?Both work great, but if using fresh, blanch them for a few minutes first to ensure they’re not damaged. I find that frozen green beans can sometimes be a little waterlogged, so make sure to thaw them. Is it necessary to pat dry the tomatoes before adding them to the sauce?
Don’t overcook green beans.If you overcooked green beans, they will be mushy and unappealing.
How do I make my own fried onions?If you’re feeling ambitious, you can make your own fried onions. Is it true that canned foods taste better than canned? How do you slice onions, toss with flour, salt and pepper, and fry until golden brown?
Add some Bacon: How can you Cooked, crumbled bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor to the casserole. I always add a little bit of bacon for an extra layer of flavor!
How do you use fresh herbs?Add fresh parsley or thyme to a casserole.
Experiment with different cheeses.Add shredded cheddar cheese or Gruyere cheese to the sauce for a cheesy twist. I’ve tried this with several different cheeses and always love the result!
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little bit of heat. My husband loves when I add a little kick to the casserole!
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftover Green Bean Casserole (which is rare in my house!), here are some tips for storing and reheating it:
Room Temperature: You can leave it at room temperature for up to 2 hours. Make sure to cover it with foil or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
Refrigerator Storage: Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken up a bit, but it will still taste great.
Freezer Instructions: You can freeze Green Bean Casserole for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in the oven.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – Grandma’s secret Green Bean Casserole recipe, finally revealed! I hope you love it as much as my family does. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and it’s the perfect way to add a little bit of comfort and joy to your holiday table. If you’re looking for other delicious side dish recipes, be sure to check out my recipes for Scalloped Potatoes, Sweet Potato Casserole, and Cranberry Sauce. Happy cooking! And don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how yours turns out. I can’t wait to hear from you!
Rich Sausage and Vegetable Casserole Delight
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground Italian sausage mild or hot
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
- 1 cup red bell pepper diced
- 1.5 cups fresh asparagus cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup zucchini sliced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika optional
- 2.5 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz noodles your choice, cooked
- 0.5 cup grated parmesan cheese for topping
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and brown the sausage until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the bell pepper, asparagus, and zucchini until they start to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the garlic and smoked paprika, cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the heavy cream and cooked sausage, and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Mix the cooked noodles into the sausage and vegetable mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and sprinkle with parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
