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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Instructions

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Assemble Casserole: Transfer the green bean mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the French fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole.
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