If you’re looking for the perfect side dish to make your family gatherings even more special, look no further! This Homemade Green Bean Casserole is sure to steal the spotlight. It’s not just another casserole; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that will have everyone coming back for seconds. The creamy mushroom sauce made from scratch is the real star here, and trust me, once you taste it, you’ll never reach for a can again!

This dish is incredibly versatile too! Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving dinner or just a busy weeknight meal, this casserole fits right in. The combination of tender green beans and crispy fried shallots creates a delightful crunch that everyone loves. Let’s dive into why this recipe will become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll whip this up in no time.
Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting dish, making it perfect for all ages.
Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it earlier in the day and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready.
Delicious flavor: The mix of fresh ingredients and spices creates a mouthwatering experience that elevates any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Homemade Green Bean Casserole is easy peasy! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome items that come together beautifully. Here’s what you need:

For the Crispy Shallots

4 medium shallots (halved lengthwise & then sliced thinly into half moons)
1 cup vegetable oil
Creole Cajun Seasoning – homemade or store-bought (or seasoned salt), to taste

For the Casserole

24 ounces fresh green beans (ends trimmed)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
8 ounces baby bella mushrooms (sliced)
1 tablespoon garlic (minced or paste)
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard (smooth or whole grain)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (or half and half)
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (divided)

Variations

The beauty of this Homemade Green Bean Casserole is its flexibility! You can customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

Add protein: Toss in some cooked chicken or turkey for a heartier dish.
Go vegan: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.
Change up the greens: Swap green beans for broccoli or asparagus if you’re feeling adventurous.
Spice it up: Add some diced jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes for a kick!

How to Make Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Crispy Shallots

Start by heating the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the sliced shallots. Fry them until they turn golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds an irresistible crunch to your casserole! Once done, transfer them to paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 2: Cook the Green Beans

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your trimmed fresh green beans and cook them until they are bright green but still crisp, about 3-4 minutes. Blanching helps retain their vibrant color and crunch. Drain them well and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Mushroom Sauce

In the same skillet used for shallots, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Sauté sliced baby bella mushrooms until they’re golden brown—this brings out their earthy flavor! Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Then sprinkle in flour, stirring for about a minute before pouring in chicken broth while continuously whisking to avoid lumps.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Once your sauce has thickened nicely, stir in lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, red pepper flakes, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Finally, add heavy cream and half of your grated parmesan cheese. Mix well until everything is combined.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

In a greased baking dish, combine the blanched green beans with the creamy mushroom sauce. Top with remaining parmesan cheese and those crispy fried shallots we made earlier. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

And there you have it—a delightful Homemade Green Bean Casserole that’s sure to warm hearts around your table! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Creating the perfect Homemade Green Bean Casserole can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll elevate your dish to a whole new level!

Use fresh green beans – Freshly trimmed green beans provide a vibrant flavor and texture that frozen alternatives simply can’t match. Opting for fresh will ensure your casserole is crisp-tender and full of life.
Make your own fried shallots – While store-bought can be convenient, homemade fried shallots deliver an unmatched crunch and flavor. The process is simple, and the result is worth every minute spent in the kitchen!
Taste as you go – Seasoning is key! Be sure to taste your creamy mushroom sauce as you cook. This allows you to adjust the seasoning to your liking, ensuring that every bite of casserole is bursting with flavor.
Layer flavors thoughtfully – When adding ingredients like garlic, mushrooms, and spices, consider cooking them in stages. This allows each component to release its unique flavors fully before being combined.
Don’t skip the nutmeg – A pinch of nutmeg may seem small, but it adds a warm depth to the dish that beautifully complements the creaminess of the sauce and the earthiness of the green beans.

How to Serve Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Serving your Homemade Green Bean Casserole can be just as satisfying as preparing it! Here are some ideas to make your presentation shine.

Garnishes

Fresh parsley or chives – A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and brightness that enhances both presentation and flavor.
Lemon zest – Just a hint of lemon zest on top right before serving brings a refreshing zing that balances out the richness of the casserole.

Side Dishes

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic create a comforting duo with green bean casserole, making for an indulgent side that everyone will love.
Honey-Glazed Carrots – The sweetness of honey-glazed carrots pairs beautifully with the savory elements of your casserole, providing a delightful contrast in flavors.
Stuffed Acorn Squash – Adding stuffed acorn squash not only diversifies your plate but also introduces warm spices that complement the casserole wonderfully.
Cranberry Sauce – A tart cranberry sauce brings brightness and acidity to balance out the richness of the green bean casserole, making it a classic holiday favorite.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Homemade Green Bean Casserole will surely impress family and friends alike at any gathering! Enjoy creating this delicious dish!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Homemade Green Bean Casserole is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its delightful flavors throughout the week or save it for a special occasion. With a few simple steps, you can make this dish ahead of time and store it properly.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

Prepare the casserole but do not bake it.
Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Reheating

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Remove the casserole from the refrigerator or freezer.
If frozen, allow it to thaw completely before reheating.
Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make Homemade Green Bean Casserole without shallots?

Absolutely! You can substitute shallots with finely chopped onions or even omit them entirely if you prefer a simpler flavor base.

How long does Homemade Green Bean Casserole last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your casserole will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days.

Can I use canned green beans instead of fresh?

While fresh green beans provide the best texture and flavor, you can use canned green beans in a pinch. Just be sure to drain them well before use!

What can I serve with Homemade Green Bean Casserole?

This casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, turkey, or any holiday main dish. It’s also a great addition to potlucks and family gatherings!

Is this Green Bean Casserole gluten-free?

You can easily make this dish gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or cornstarch for thickening.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in making this Homemade Green Bean Casserole as I have! It’s a comforting side dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any celebration or cozy dinner at home. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share your experience! Happy cooking!

Homemade Green Bean Casserole

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Author: Madison
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

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Description

If you’re searching for a standout side dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal, look no further than this Homemade Green Bean Casserole. With its creamy mushroom sauce made from scratch and topped with crispy fried shallots, this casserole is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will impress your family and guests alike. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner, it’s a dish that promises to be a crowd-pleaser every time.

Ingredients

Scale

24 ounces fresh green beans (trimmed)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
8 ounces baby bella mushrooms (sliced)
1 tablespoon garlic (minced)
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (divided)
4 medium shallots (halved lengthwise & then sliced thinly into half moons)
1 cup vegetable oil
Creole Cajun Seasoning – to taste
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

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Instructions

Prepare the crispy shallots by frying sliced shallots in vegetable oil until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
Blanch the trimmed green beans in salted boiling water for 3-4 minutes, then drain and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté mushrooms until golden. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
Stir in flour, then gradually whisk in chicken broth until thickened. Mix in lemon juice, Dijon mustard, thyme, red pepper flakes, nutmeg, salt, pepper, heavy cream, and half of the parmesan cheese.
Combine blanched green beans with the sauce in a greased baking dish. Top with remaining parmesan cheese and crispy shallots.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly.