If you’ve ever loved the comforting, nostalgic flavors of a classic holiday side, you’re going to adore this Green Bean Casserole from Scratch Recipe. It takes the humble green bean and elevates it by creating a rich, creamy mushroom sauce that’s seasoned just right, then topped with a crisp, golden breadcrumb and parmesan crust. This dish is all about fresh, vibrant ingredients coming together in a way that feels both hearty and elegant. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, a family dinner, or simply a way to make your weeknight meals feel special, this casserole brings warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Green Bean Casserole from Scratch Recipe serves a purpose, coming together simply but perfectly to create layers of flavor and texture. From fresh green beans to the creamy homemade mushroom sauce, each element adds character and richness that store-bought alternatives can’t match.
- 1 lb green beans (trimmed): Fresh green beans provide a crisp, vibrant base that keeps this casserole light yet hearty.
- 1 Tbsp unsalted butter: Adds a silky richness essential for sautéing mushrooms and building the sauce.
- 1 Tbsp olive oil: Helps create a perfect sauté without overpowering the delicate mushroom flavor.
- 8 oz mushrooms (cremini, baby bella, or white): Mushrooms bring earthiness and meaty texture, making the sauce the star of the dish.
- 1 medium onion (chopped): The natural sweetness of onions rounds out the savory profile beautifully.
- 2 cloves garlic: Adds aromatic depth and a gentle punch that enhances the mushrooms and onions.
- 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour: This is our thickening agent, creating the smooth, creamy sauce that clings to the beans.
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable stock: Builds flavor complexity and helps deglaze the pan while joining the sauce together.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Provides that luxuriously creamy texture which makes this casserole irresistibly rich.
- 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Adds a subtle umami kick and a hint of tanginess.
- 1 Tbsp soy sauce: Enhances the umami flavor profile, balancing the creaminess with saltiness.
- Salt (to taste): Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors in the dish.
- Black pepper (to taste): Adds just the right amount of heat and complexity.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Gives the topping a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
- 1/3 cup parmesan cheese: Brings a sharp, nutty flavor to the crust, making it golden and irresistible.
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (or 1 tsp garlic flakes): Infuses the breadcrumb topping with another layer of subtle garlic flavor.
- 1 tsp dried parsley: Adds a pop of herby freshness and a splash of color to brighten the crust.
How to Make Green Bean Casserole from Scratch Recipe
Step 1: Blanch the Green Beans
Start by preheating your oven to 375˚F. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the trimmed green beans. Blanch them for about 5 minutes if you prefer a bit of crunch or 8 minutes for a softer bite. Once done, drain and set aside. This quick cooking locks in their bright green color and fresh flavor, ensuring they stay vibrant in the casserole.
Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms
While the beans are resting, heat a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the butter and olive oil, then toss in your sliced mushrooms with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook them until the liquid they release evaporates and the mushrooms turn a lovely golden brown. This step is crucial because it deepens their flavor and reduces excess moisture that could make the casserole soggy.
Step 3: Cook the Onions and Garlic
Push the mushrooms to one side of the pan and add the chopped onion. Lower the heat slightly and let the onions soften over a few minutes. Then stir the mushrooms and onions together, cooking until the onions turn translucent and tender, about 6-8 minutes. Finally, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly to avoid burning. This aromatic base builds rich flavor for your sauce.
Step 4: Make the Roux
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the mushroom and onion mixture, stirring constantly to create a smooth paste. Continue cooking for another 1 to 2 minutes until it smells lightly nutty but hasn’t browned. This flour paste, called a roux, is the secret behind the wonderfully creamy texture of the sauce.
Step 5: Add Liquids and Season
Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable stock, raising the heat to medium. Stir continuously, scraping up any bits stuck to the pan to incorporate all that flavor. Once it reaches a boil, add the heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Lower to a gentle simmer until the sauce thickens into a luscious gravy-like consistency. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. This sauce is what makes the Green Bean Casserole from Scratch Recipe so comforting and irresistible.
Step 6: Combine and Transfer
Fold the blanched green beans into the creamy mushroom sauce until each bean is beautifully coated. Transfer everything to a 1.5 to 2-quart casserole dish, setting the stage for baking and that glorious crispy topping.
Step 7: Prepare Topping and Bake
In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Sprinkle this flavorful mix evenly over the casserole. Bake uncovered at 375˚F for 20 minutes, then finish by broiling for 2 to 3 minutes so the topping turns a fantastic golden brown. This crispy layer adds the perfect contrast to the creamy beans beneath.
How to Serve Green Bean Casserole from Scratch Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Green Bean Casserole from Scratch Recipe pop visually and flavor-wise, consider sprinkling a bit of freshly chopped parsley or chives on top just before serving. A light drizzle of truffle oil can elevate the earthiness of the mushrooms and add a lovely fragrance that complements the dish wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines alongside a variety of classic main dishes like roasted turkey or baked ham. It also pairs beautifully with garlic mashed potatoes or a crisp winter salad, adding creaminess and savor that balances lighter, fresher flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to dress it up, serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a special touch at dinner parties or holidays. Layering the casserole in clear glass dishes can showcase the contrast between the green beans and creamy sauce, making it almost too pretty to eat—almost!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Green Bean Casserole from Scratch Recipe should be cooled completely, then transferred to an airtight container and refrigerated. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. This makes it a wonderful dish to prepare ahead and enjoy again later without losing flavor or texture.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well if wrapped tightly or stored in freezer-safe containers. Freeze it before baking, and when you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through and the topping crisps up beautifully.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole loosely with foil and warm it in a 350˚F oven until heated through, usually about 20 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to refresh the crispy topping. This method keeps the casserole creamy and delicious without drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use canned green beans instead of fresh for this recipe?
While fresh green beans offer the best texture and color, you can substitute canned beans if needed. Just be sure to drain them well and adjust the cooking time since canned beans are already tender.
What kind of mushrooms work best for the casserole?
Cremini or baby bella mushrooms are ideal because they have a meaty texture and deep flavor. White mushrooms are fine, too, but try to avoid overly watery varieties to keep the sauce rich and thick.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Green Bean Casserole from Scratch Recipe?
Absolutely! Simply use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is vegetarian-friendly. This swap keeps the dish flavorful and suitable for vegetarians.
Can I make the breadcrumb topping gluten-free?
Yes, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. The parmesan, herbs, and garlic powder will still give it that fantastic flavor and crunch.
How can I make the casserole creamier?
If you love an extra creamy casserole, you can add a splash more heavy cream or a bit of cream cheese when making the mushroom sauce. Just keep an eye on the seasoning to maintain the perfect balance.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Green Bean Casserole from Scratch Recipe—it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and comforting flavors wrapped up in one delicious dish. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying this kind of recipe for the first time, it’s approachable, satisfying, and sure to become a beloved classic in your kitchen. Give it a try and watch it disappear from the table every single time!
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Green Bean Casserole from Scratch Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This from-scratch Green Bean Casserole recipe delivers a flavorful twist on the classic dish, combining tender blanched green beans with a rich, creamy mushroom sauce and topped with a crispy, cheesy breadcrumb crust. Perfect as a comforting side for holiday dinners or any family meal.
Ingredients
Green Beans
- 1 lb green beans, trimmed
Mushroom Sauce
- 1 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 8 oz mushrooms (cremini, baby bella, or white), sliced
- 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
Topping
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (or 1 tsp garlic flakes)
- 1 tsp dried parsley
Instructions
- Preheat and blanch green beans. Preheat the oven to 375˚F. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the trimmed green beans and blanch them for 5 minutes for firmer beans or 8 minutes for softer beans. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté mushrooms. Heat a large pan over medium-high heat and add butter and olive oil. Add the sliced mushrooms with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté until the mushroom liquid evaporates and mushrooms turn golden brown.
- Cook onions and garlic. Push the mushrooms to one side of the pan and add the chopped onion. Sauté over low heat for a couple of minutes. Stir together with mushrooms and continue cooking until onions are soft (6-8 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds while stirring.
- Create roux with flour. Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom-onion mixture and stir to form a paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture smells slightly nutty, being careful not to burn it.
- Add liquids and season. Pour in chicken or vegetable stock and bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly and scraping the bottom of the pan. Add heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Reduce heat to low and cook until the sauce thickens into a creamy gravy. Season with salt to taste.
- Combine green beans and mushroom sauce. Add the blanched green beans into the mushroom sauce and stir well to combine. Transfer the mixture to a 1.5 to 2-quart casserole dish.
- Prepare and bake topping. In a separate bowl, mix breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Sprinkle this evenly over the casserole. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, then broil for 2-3 minutes until the topping turns golden brown and crispy.
Notes
- You can use either chicken or vegetable stock to keep it vegetarian friendly.
- Adjust blanching time based on your desired green bean texture.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
- The sauce thickens as it bakes, so don’t worry if it seems a bit loose before baking.
- Broiling at the end helps achieve a nicely browned and crunchy topping.
