Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole With Step-by-Step Video

We present the Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole With Step-by-Step Video that will elevate your holiday meals and family gatherings. This recipe features a homemade Parmesan cream sauce, savory caramelized mushrooms, and fresh green beans, creating a comforting side dish that everyone will love. Perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas, this casserole combines elegance with simplicity, making it a standout on any dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The rich Parmesan cream sauce and caramelized mushrooms add depth to the classic dish.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this casserole without breaking a sweat.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual family dinner, this casserole fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and bake just before serving for stress-free entertaining.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves a good green bean casserole, and this version is guaranteed to impress.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best-ever green bean casserole, gather the necessary tools to ensure smooth preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Large saucepan
• Whisk
• Baking dish (2-qt.)
• Foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling the green beans evenly and efficiently.
• Large skillet: Perfect for caramelizing mushrooms to enhance their flavor.
• Whisk: Essential for creating a smooth sauce by blending ingredients thoroughly.
• Baking dish: Provides an even cooking surface for your casserole.

Ingredients

We turned up the dial on green bean casserole with a homemade Parmesan cream sauce, savory caramelized mushrooms, and fresh green beans. French’s onions stay.

For the Casserole Base

• 2 lb. fresh green beans
• Kosher salt

For the Mushroom Mixture

• 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• 1 lb. crimini mushrooms, sliced, divided
• 6 Tbsp. unsalted butter, divided
• 4 large sprigs thyme, divided

For the Cream Sauce

• 2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
• 1¼ cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 cloves garlic, finely grated
• ½ cup grated Parmesan

For Topping

• Freshly ground black pepper
• ¾ cup French’s fried onions

How to Make Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole With Step-by-Step Video

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Position the oven rack in the middle.

Step 2: Prepare the Green Beans

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook 2 lb. of fresh green beans in batches until bright green and halfway tender (about 3 minutes).
3. Drain them well and let cool before trimming stem ends.

Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 Tbsp. of extra-virgin olive oil.
2. Add ½ lb. of sliced crimini mushrooms without stirring; cook until golden brown underneath (about 2 minutes).
3. Toss the mushrooms and continue cooking until browned on both sides (about another 3 minutes).
4. Add 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter and 2 large thyme sprigs; cook until butter is browned and mushrooms are tender (about 4 minutes). Season with kosher salt and transfer to a plate.
5. Repeat with remaining butter, oil, mushrooms, thyme sprigs, and seasoning.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

1. In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, melt remaining 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter.
2. Whisk in 2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour; cook until roux is golden brown (about 4 minutes).
3. Gradually whisk in whole milk and heavy cream; bring to simmer while whisking often until thickened (about 5 minutes).
4. Remove from heat; mix in finely grated garlic and grated Parmesan cheese; season with salt and freshly ground pepper.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

1. In a baking dish (2-qt.), arrange cooked green beans and sautéed mushrooms evenly.
2. Pour the cream sauce over them; it may seem insufficient but will thicken while baking.
3. Cover tightly with foil; bake until sauce is bubbling (25–30 minutes).
4. Uncover and bake until lightly browned on top (15–20 minutes more).
5. Top with French’s fried onions; bake until they’re slightly darker and fragrant (about 3 minutes). Let sit for about 10 minutes before serving.

With these easy steps, you’ll create an unforgettable Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole With Step-by-Step Video that will delight your guests!

How to Serve Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole With Step-by-Step Video

Serving the Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole is all about enhancing its flavors and presentation. This delicious dish pairs beautifully with various accompaniments that can elevate your meal.

Complement with a Fresh Salad

• A crisp mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette adds brightness and balances the richness of the casserole.

Pair with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables bring a delightful crunch and earthy flavors, complementing the creamy casserole perfectly.

Serve alongside Bread Rolls

• Soft and fluffy dinner rolls or crusty bread are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your casserole.

Include a Protein Option

• Grilled chicken or turkey can be served on the side to round out the meal, providing a savory contrast to the creamy beans.

Offer a Tangy Sauce

• A homemade chimichurri or zesty salsa verde can add a fresh twist, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your dish.

How to Perfect Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole With Step-by-Step Video

Perfecting your green bean casserole can make all the difference in taste and texture. Here are some tips to ensure it shines at your table.

• Choose Fresh Green Beans: Fresh beans provide a vibrant color and crispness that canned options can’t match.
• Don’t Rush the Mushrooms: Take your time caramelizing mushrooms; this step enhances their flavor and adds depth to your casserole.
• Make Your Own Cream Sauce: A homemade sauce allows you to control flavors and avoid preservatives found in store-bought options.
• Layer Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add spices or herbs like nutmeg or paprika for additional flavor dimensions.
• Use High-Quality Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully and provides richer flavor than pre-packaged varieties.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for 10 minutes after baking helps it set, making serving easier and maintaining structure.

Best Side Dishes for Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole With Step-by-Step Video

When serving your green bean casserole, consider these delightful side dishes that pair wonderfully together.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting classic alongside your casserole.
2. Quinoa Salad: A protein-rich quinoa salad with vegetables adds a nutritious boost while keeping things light.
3. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots glazed with honey provide a lovely contrast to the savory flavors of the casserole.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice and vegetables create an eye-catching presentation on your table.
5. Cranberry Sauce: A tangy-sweet cranberry sauce offers a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of rich casserole.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Moist cornbread muffins add sweetness and texture, making them an ideal companion to this hearty dish.
7. Creamed Spinach: This rich side adds creaminess without overshadowing the main dish’s flavors, creating harmony on your plate.
8. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs well with savory dishes, adding color and nutrition to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the blanching step: Not blanching green beans first can lead to a mushy texture. Blanch them in boiling water briefly before baking.
• Using low-quality mushrooms: Opt for fresh crimini mushrooms for better flavor. Avoid canned mushrooms which can be rubbery and bland.
• Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning your sauce can make the casserole taste flat. Don’t forget to use kosher salt and freshly ground pepper generously.
• Not letting it rest: Serving immediately can cause the casserole to fall apart. Let it sit for 10 minutes after baking to set properly.
• Overbaking the casserole: Baking too long can dry it out. Monitor closely during the final stages for perfect browning.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover green bean casserole in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole With Step-by-Step Video

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap tightly in foil or place in a freezer-safe container; it lasts about 2-3 months.

Reheating Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole With Step-by-Step Video

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover lightly, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: Transfer portions to a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this the Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole With Step-by-Step Video?

This recipe features fresh ingredients and a homemade Parmesan cream sauce that elevates traditional flavors, ensuring a delicious dish every time.

Can I use frozen green beans instead?

Yes, but fresh green beans are recommended for optimal texture and flavor. If using frozen, cook them according to package instructions before adding them to the casserole.

How can I customize my Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole With Step-by-Step Video?

Feel free to add other vegetables or spices according to your taste preferences. You could include sautéed onions or different herbs for variety.

Is this dish vegetarian-friendly?

Yes! This green bean casserole is entirely vegetarian as it contains no meat or animal-derived products.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble everything a day in advance and bake it when ready. Just keep the topping separate until you’re about to bake.

Final Thoughts

The Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole is not just a side dish; it’s a comforting classic that shines at any gathering. Its creamy texture, combined with savory mushrooms and crispy fried onions, makes it irresistible. Feel free to customize this dish by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables for a personal touch. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole With Step-by-Step Video

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x

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Description

Elevate your holiday meals with this Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole, a comforting side dish that blends rich flavors and creamy textures. Featuring a homemade Parmesan cream sauce, savory caramelized mushrooms, and fresh green beans, this casserole is perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas gatherings. It’s easy to prepare, make-ahead friendly, and guaranteed to impress your guests. The combination of crispy French’s fried onions on top adds the finishing touch, making every bite a delightful experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lb fresh green beans
• 1 lb crimini mushrooms, sliced
• 2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• 6 Tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 4 large sprigs thyme, divided
• 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1¼ cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 cloves garlic, finely grated
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• ¾ cup French's fried onions

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Position the oven rack in the middle.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook green beans in batches until bright green and halfway tender (about 3 minutes). Drain well and let cool before trimming stem ends.
3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 Tbsp. of olive oil. Add half the sliced mushrooms without stirring; cook until golden brown underneath (about 2 minutes) and continue cooking until browned on both sides (about another 3 minutes). Add 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter and 2 large thyme sprigs; cook until butter is browned and mushrooms are tender (about 4 minutes). Season with kosher salt and transfer to a plate. Repeat with remaining butter, oil, mushrooms, thyme sprigs, and seasoning.
4. In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, melt remaining 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter. Whisk in flour; cook until roux is golden brown (about 4 minutes). Gradually whisk in whole milk and heavy cream; bring to simmer while whisking often until thickened (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat; mix in garlic and Parmesan cheese; season with salt and pepper.
5. In a baking dish (2-qt.), arrange cooked green beans and sautéed mushrooms evenly. Pour the cream sauce over them; it may seem insufficient but will thicken while baking. Cover tightly with foil; bake until sauce is bubbling (25–30 minutes). Uncover and bake until lightly browned on top (15–20 minutes more). Top with fried onions; bake until they’re slightly darker and fragrant (about 3 minutes). Let sit for about 10 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 540mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 45mg