Green Bean Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This classic Green Bean Casserole is a comforting and flavorful side dish perfect for family dinners and holiday gatherings. Made with tender green beans, crispy bacon, and a creamy mushroom sauce topped with crunchy fried onions, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 1 pound frozen green beans
• 4 slices crispy bacon, chopped
• ½ cup onion, diced
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 1 cup button mushrooms, finely chopped
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2½ cups half & half cream
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups French fried onions

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a 2-quart baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside.
2. Step 2: Steam the frozen green beans according to package directions. Drain any excess liquid and place the beans into a large bowl. Set aside.
3. Step 3: In a medium skillet over medium-low heat, cook the bacon slices until crispy. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Once cooled, chop into small pieces and set aside.
4. Step 4: Leave 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet. Over medium-high heat, cook the mushrooms, onions, and garlic for about 5 minutes until tender. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
5. Step 5: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle the flour into the melted butter and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until the flour is lightly browned and no raw flour remains.
6. Step 6: Slowly whisk in the half & half cream, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook for about 3 minutes until the mixture thickens.
7. Step 7: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until combined.
8. Step 8: In the large bowl with the steamed green beans, add the cooked mushroom mixture, chopped bacon, and creamy sauce. Stir gently to combine, then transfer to the prepared casserole dish.
9. Step 9: Evenly top the casserole with French fried onions. Bake for 30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, try adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the creamy mixture.
• Use fresh green beans if available—just blanch them before assembling the casserole.
• Substitute Parmesan with Gruyère or cheddar cheese for a different cheesy twist.
• Add a handful of toasted almonds or pecans on top for added crunch.

Storage

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. To maintain crispiness of the fried onions, add fresh ones on top after reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh green beans instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh green beans can be used. Simply blanch them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes, then drain and proceed with the recipe as directed.

Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. Just add the french fried onions before baking.

Green Bean Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 118 reviews

• Author: Harry
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This classic Green Bean Casserole features tender steamed green beans enveloped in a creamy, flavorful sauce made with parmesan, Italian seasoning, and sautéed mushrooms, onions, and garlic. Crispy bacon pieces add a smoky crunch, while a golden topping of French fried onions provides the perfect finishing touch. Baked to bubbly perfection, this comforting casserole is a delicious side dish for holiday gatherings or any dinner.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables and Bacon

• 1 pound frozen green beans
• 4 slices crispy bacon, chopped
• ½ cup onion, diced
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 1 cup button mushrooms, finely chopped

Sauce

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2½ cups half & half cream
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• salt and pepper, to taste

Topping

• 2 cups French fried onions

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 2-quart baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and set it aside for later.
2. Steam Green Beans: Cook the frozen green beans according to the package instructions, typically steaming until just tender. Drain any excess liquid thoroughly and transfer the cooked green beans into a large mixing bowl.
3. Cook Bacon: In a medium skillet over medium-low heat, cook the bacon slices until crisp. Remove the bacon and let it drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Once cooled, chop the bacon into small pieces and set aside.
4. Sauté Vegetables: Remove all but 1 tablespoon of the bacon grease from the skillet. Over medium-high heat, cook the chopped mushrooms, diced onions, and minced garlic for about 5 minutes or until tender and fragrant. Remove the vegetable mixture from the skillet and set aside.
5. Make Roux: Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the flour to cook until it turns pale brown with no raw flour taste.
6. Prepare Cream Sauce: Gradually whisk the half & half into the roux, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and whisking for about 3 minutes, until the mixture thickens noticeably.
7. Add Seasonings and Cheese: Turn off the heat and stir in the grated parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until the sauce is smooth and flavorful.
8. Combine Mixture: Add the steamed green beans, sautéed mushroom mixture, and chopped bacon to the sauce in the large bowl. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
9. Assemble Casserole: Transfer the green bean mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the French fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole.
10. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is hot and bubbly throughout.

Notes

• Steaming frozen green beans ensures they stay tender and do not become mushy in the casserole.
• Using bacon grease to sauté the vegetables adds a rich smoky flavor to the dish.
• Be sure to whisk the sauce constantly to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth cream sauce.
• You can substitute parmesan cheese with Gruyère or sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• The French fried onions can be added before baking for a crispy topping or added halfway through baking to avoid burning.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: green bean casserole, holiday side dish, bacon green beans, creamy casserole, mushroom sauce, parmesan cheese, French fried onions, easy baked casserole