If you have been searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish to bring to your next dinner or holiday gathering, look no further. The Green Bean Casserole with Mushroom Sauce and Crispy Fried Onions Recipe is a classic reimagined with rich, homemade mushroom sauce that balances creaminess and earthiness perfectly. Finished with golden, crispy fried onions, this casserole is a harmonious blend of tender green beans, savory mushrooms, and irresistible texture that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s a delicious way to elevate your side dish game with wholesome ingredients and simple steps that deliver impressive, soul-satisfying results.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly straightforward but come together to create a dish bursting with flavor and texture. Each element plays a crucial role, whether it’s the freshness of the green beans, the deep umami of the mushrooms, or the crispy crunch of the fried onions that crowning the casserole.
- 2 pounds fresh green beans: Trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces, their brightness and snap provide the perfect contrast to the creamy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds rich flavor and helps soften the aromatics without overpowering the dish.
- 1 medium yellow onion: Finely chopped for a sweet and savory base that melds beautifully with the mushrooms.
- 3 cloves garlic: Minced for a subtle zing that enhances the mushroom sauce.
- 8 ounces button or cremini mushrooms: Sliced and sautéed to bring an earthy depth to this casserole.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour: The magic thickener that transforms the mushroom broth into a luscious sauce.
- 2 cups half & half: Provides the creamy, silky texture that coats every green bean.
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth: Adds flavor and moisture, balancing the richness of the cream.
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce: Imparts a subtle umami kick to the sauce.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the savory elements without salting too much early on.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Offers a gentle warmth and spice to complement the flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: A hint of warmth that rounds out the mushroom sauce beautifully.
- 1½ cups crispy fried onions: Provides irresistible crunch and a golden finish to the dish.
How to Make Green Bean Casserole with Mushroom Sauce and Crispy Fried Onions Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and blanch the green beans
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your trimmed green beans and cook them just until they turn bright green and are slightly tender — about 2 to 3 minutes. This quick blanching keeps the beans crisp and fresh. Then, plunge them into ice water immediately to stop the cooking. This step is essential for preserving their vibrant color and perfect texture.
Step 2: Sauté the aromatics and mushrooms
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook gently until it’s soft and sweet, around 3 to 4 minutes. Then toss in the minced garlic and the sliced mushrooms. Cook them together until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, which takes about 5 to 7 minutes. This develops a deep, savory flavor base for your sauce that’s utterly delicious.
Step 3: Make the creamy mushroom sauce
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the softened mushroom mixture, stirring to coat everything well. Let it cook for a minute or two to soften the flour’s raw edge. Then, slowly whisk in the broth and half & half, making sure no lumps form. Add the soy sauce, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Simmer the sauce gently for about 5 minutes until it thickens to that silky consistency that clings lovingly to each bean.
Step 4: Combine the casserole
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, mix together the blanched green beans, the rich mushroom sauce, and half a cup of crispy fried onions. Stir everything so the green beans are evenly coated in that savory sauce, creating a creamy, flavorful bed. Spread the mixture into an even layer, setting the stage for the final crunchy topping.
Step 5: Bake to perfection
Sprinkle the remaining crispy fried onions on top for a golden, crunchy crust. Bake the casserole at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, until the sauce bubbles merrily and the onions turn a toasty golden brown. Let it rest for a few minutes after baking so the flavors settle and the sauce thickens just right. Now, it’s ready to bring smiles to your table!
How to Serve Green Bean Casserole with Mushroom Sauce and Crispy Fried Onions Recipe
Garnishes
To make this dish pop even more, consider sprinkling fresh chopped parsley or chives right before serving. The fresh herbs brighten the earthy mushroom sauce and add a burst of color that looks as good as it tastes. A light dusting of grated Parmesan can also add a savory, cheesy note if you want an extra flavor layer.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with hearty mains like roast turkey, glazed ham, or even a juicy steak. Its creamy texture and crunchy topping make it a perfect counterpoint to grilled or roasted proteins, while complementing classic mashed potatoes and buttery dinner rolls.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, serve individual portions in small ramekins topped with an extra handful of crispy onions. Or prepare the casserole in mini cast-iron skillets for a rustic, charming presentation. For a lighter touch, spoon the mixture over a bed of quinoa or rice as a hearty vegetarian main course.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The Green Bean Casserole with Mushroom Sauce and Crispy Fried Onions Recipe keeps wonderfully for up to 3 days, making it an excellent make-ahead option for busy households or leftovers that shine the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole, but for best results, freeze it before baking. Assemble the dish fully, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual. This way, the crispy fried onions on top stay much fresher and crisper after baking.
Reheating
To reheat, place your portion in an oven-safe dish and warm at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through and bubbly. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the crispy onions soggy. A quick re-crisp under the broiler for a minute or two works wonders to revive that delectable crunch.
FAQs
Can I use canned green beans instead of fresh?
While canned green beans can be used in a pinch, fresh green beans offer the best flavor, color, and texture for this recipe. Freshly blanched green beans have that satisfying snap and bright green hue that make the casserole truly special.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! Simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. The mushroom sauce already has fantastic umami flavor, so it remains deliciously savory and satisfying without any meat-based ingredients.
How do I make the crispy fried onions from scratch?
If you’re feeling adventurous, thinly slice onions, toss them in seasoned flour, and fry them in hot oil until golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. This homemade touch can elevate your casserole, though store-bought crispy onions work perfectly well too.
Can I prepare the mushroom sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the mushroom sauce a day ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and assemble your casserole closer to baking time. This can actually deepen the flavors as they meld together while refrigerated.
What if I don’t have half & half on hand?
No worries! You can substitute half & half with a mixture of milk and heavy cream (equal parts) to achieve a similar creamy texture. Whole milk alone can also work, but the sauce may be slightly less rich.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend the Green Bean Casserole with Mushroom Sauce and Crispy Fried Onions Recipe enough for anyone looking to add a stunning, flavorful side dish to their cooking repertoire. It is comforting yet elegant, simple yet special, and guaranteed to become one of your favorite crowd-pleasers. Give it a try and watch how this timeless dish brings warm smiles and happy plates to your table.
Print
Green Bean Casserole with Mushroom Sauce and Crispy Fried Onions Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Green Bean Casserole features tender green beans combined with a creamy mushroom sauce, topped with crispy fried onions for a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s a comforting and easy-to-make dish ideal for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces button or cremini mushrooms, sliced
Dairy & Broth
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups half & half
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
Seasonings & Flour
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Toppings
- 1½ cups crispy fried onions
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the casserole.
- Blanch Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender. Immediately transfer the beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking for 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown.
- Add Flour: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the mushroom mixture and stir to coat evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Prepare Sauce: Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth and half & half, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add soy sauce, salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg. Simmer the sauce for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until thickened.
- Combine Ingredients: In a 9×13-inch casserole dish, combine the blanched green beans, mushroom sauce, and 1/2 cup of crispy fried onions. Mix well so that the green beans are evenly coated with the sauce. Spread the mixture into an even layer.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the remaining crispy fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the onions on top turn golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade Green Bean Casserole!
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Make sure not to overcook the green beans during blanching; they should retain some crispness.
- If you want extra crispy topping, add the fried onions during the last 5 minutes of baking as well as on top.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead, assembled, and refrigerated before baking.
