Green Bean Casserole (From Scratch)

“Make the best homemade green bean casserole from scratch with fresh green beans, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce. This easy recipe features a rich, flavorful mushroom gravy made with chicken or vegetable stock, Worcestershire sauce, and heavy cream, topped with crispy parmesan herb breadcrumbs. Perfect for holiday dinners, family gatherings, and special occasions, this classic green bean casserole will be a crowd-pleaser. Skip the canned versions and enjoy this from-scratch casserole with a crunchy topping and smooth, creamy filling. A must-try dish for anyone looking for a comforting, savory side!”

Ingredients:

For the Green Bean Casserole:

• 1 lb green beans, trimmed
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 8 oz mushrooms (cremini, baby bella, or white)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable stock
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

For the Parmesan Herb and Garlic Breadcrumbs:

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/3 cup parmesan cheese
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder (or 1 tsp garlic flakes)
• 1 tsp dried parsley

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then add the trimmed green beans. Blanch for 5 minutes for firmer beans or 8 minutes for softer beans. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tbsp butter with 1 tbsp olive oil. Add the sliced mushrooms, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Sauté until the mushrooms release their liquid and turn golden brown, about 8 minutes.
3. Push the mushrooms to one side of the pan and add the chopped onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened, then stir everything together. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir to form a paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture becomes slightly nutty, but be careful not to burn it.
5. Gradually add the chicken or vegetable stock, stirring constantly and scraping the bottom of the pan. Bring to a boil and then add the heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer until thickened to a creamy, gravy-like consistency, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add the blanched green beans to the mushroom sauce and stir to coat. Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish.
7. In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the green bean casserole.
8. Bake uncovered at 375°F for 20 minutes, then broil for an additional 2-3 minutes to brown the topping until golden and crispy.

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Tips

• Green Beans: For the perfect texture, don’t overcook the green beans during blanching. They will continue cooking in the oven.
• Mushrooms: Make sure to cook the mushrooms thoroughly until their liquid evaporates and they become golden brown for the best flavor.
• Creamy Sauce: Be careful not to let the flour burn when making the roux. Stir constantly and cook on medium-low heat.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegan Version: Replace the butter with vegan butter and use a plant-based cream (such as coconut cream or soy cream). Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a fully vegan casserole.
• Cheese Variations: Try adding shredded cheddar or Gruyère cheese to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
• Add-ins: Feel free to add cooked bacon bits, crispy fried onions, or chopped pecans for extra crunch and flavor.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and bake when ready to serve.

Can I freeze green bean casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole (without the breadcrumbs) for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and top with the breadcrumbs before baking.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this casserole as a side dish with your favorite main course, such as roasted chicken, turkey, or steak.
• Pair it with mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and other classic holiday dishes for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This homemade green bean casserole is rich, creamy, and packed with savory flavors. With fresh green beans, earthy mushrooms, and a velvety sauce, it’s a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any holiday or family dinner. The crispy, cheesy breadcrumb topping adds the perfect finishing touch for a crunchy contrast to the creamy filling. This version, made from scratch, is far better than the canned versions, and it’s sure to be a hit with everyone!