From Scratch Fresh Green Bean Casserole: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Green bean casserole is a classic side dish, especially during the holidays. While the traditional recipe using canned soup and fried onions is undeniably convenient, making it from scratch with fresh green beans elevates the dish to a whole new level of flavor and texture. This recipe transforms the humble green bean casserole into a gourmet delight, while still retaining the comforting essence of the original. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this surprisingly easy and incredibly delicious fresh green bean casserole!

Why Make Green Bean Casserole From Scratch?

Before diving into the recipe, let’s discuss why making green bean casserole from scratch is worth the effort. While it does require a bit more time than the canned soup version, the difference in taste and quality is significant.

* **Superior Flavor:** Fresh green beans have a vibrant, grassy flavor that canned green beans simply can’t match. Using fresh mushrooms and a homemade sauce results in a deeper, richer, and more complex flavor profile.
* **Better Texture:** Fresh green beans retain a pleasant crisp-tender texture when cooked properly. Canned green beans tend to be mushy and lack the satisfying snap. The homemade crispy fried onions also add a delightful crunch.
* **Healthier Ingredients:** By making it from scratch, you have complete control over the ingredients. You can use healthier options like olive oil, fresh herbs, and reduce the amount of sodium compared to the canned version.
* **Impressive Presentation:** A homemade green bean casserole looks more appealing and sophisticated than the canned version. It’s a great way to show off your culinary skills and impress your guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious fresh green bean casserole. Don’t be intimidated by the list; most of these are pantry staples, and the fresh ingredients are easily accessible.

**For the Green Beans:**

* **2 pounds fresh green beans:** Look for firm, bright green beans without blemishes. Trimmed and snapped or cut into 1-inch pieces.
* **1 tablespoon olive oil:** For sautéing the green beans.
* **1/2 teaspoon salt:** To season the green beans.
* **1/4 teaspoon black pepper:** To season the green beans.

**For the Mushroom Sauce:**

* **8 ounces cremini mushrooms:** Also known as baby bellas, these mushrooms have a richer flavor than white button mushrooms. Sliced.
* **1 medium yellow onion:** Finely chopped. Contributes to the base flavor of the sauce.
* **2 cloves garlic:** Minced. Adds a pungent and aromatic flavor.
* **4 tablespoons butter:** Adds richness and flavor to the sauce.
* **4 tablespoons all-purpose flour:** Used to thicken the sauce.
* **2 cups vegetable broth:** Provides the liquid base for the sauce. You can also use chicken broth for a richer flavor.
* **1 cup milk:** Adds creaminess to the sauce. Whole milk or 2% milk works best.
* **1/4 cup heavy cream:** Optional, but adds extra richness and smoothness.
* **1/2 teaspoon salt:** To season the sauce.
* **1/4 teaspoon black pepper:** To season the sauce.
* **1/4 teaspoon nutmeg:** A pinch of nutmeg adds a warm, subtle spice that complements the mushrooms and cream.
* **1 tablespoon dry sherry (optional):** Adds depth and complexity to the sauce. If you don’t have sherry, you can omit it.
* **1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional):** Adds umami flavor.

**For the Crispy Fried Onions:**

* **1 large yellow onion:** Thinly sliced into rings.
* **1/2 cup all-purpose flour:** For dredging the onion rings.
* **1/2 teaspoon salt:** To season the flour.
* **1/4 teaspoon black pepper:** To season the flour.
* **Vegetable oil for frying:** You’ll need enough oil to deep fry the onion rings.

Equipment You’ll Need

* **Large pot:** For blanching the green beans.
* **Large skillet or Dutch oven:** For making the mushroom sauce.
* **Small bowl:** For mixing the flour and seasonings for the onions.
* **Deep fryer or large pot:** For frying the onion rings. A deep fryer will maintain a consistent temperature, but a large pot works just as well.
* **Slotted spoon or spider:** For removing the onion rings from the oil.
* **Baking sheet:** Lined with paper towels to drain the fried onions.
* **9×13 inch baking dish:** For assembling and baking the casserole.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get to the fun part: making the green bean casserole! Follow these step-by-step instructions for a perfect result.

**Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans**

1. **Trim and Wash:** Wash the green beans thoroughly. Trim the ends and snap or cut them into 1-inch pieces. This ensures even cooking and a more manageable size for eating.
2. **Blanch:** Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until they are bright green and slightly tender-crisp. Blanching helps retain the vibrant color and prevents them from becoming mushy during baking.
3. **Ice Bath:** Immediately transfer the blanched green beans to an ice bath (a bowl filled with ice and water). This stops the cooking process and preserves their crisp texture and bright green color. Let them sit in the ice bath for a few minutes until completely cooled.
4. **Drain:** Drain the green beans well and set aside. You can pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which will prevent them from becoming soggy in the casserole.

**Step 2: Make the Mushroom Sauce**

1. **Sauté the Aromatics:** In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
2. **Cook the Mushrooms:** Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and become tender, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. The mushrooms should be nicely browned and slightly shrunken.
3. **Make the Roux:** Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and onions and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which is the base for the sauce and helps thicken it. Cooking the flour eliminates its raw taste.
4. **Add the Liquid:** Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This adds flavor and prevents the sauce from sticking. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and there are no lumps. Then, whisk in the milk and heavy cream (if using).
5. **Season and Simmer:** Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Season with salt, pepper, nutmeg, sherry (if using), and Worcestershire sauce (if using). Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. The sauce should be rich, creamy, and flavorful.

**Step 3: Prepare the Crispy Fried Onions**

1. **Soak the Onions (Optional):** Some people like to soak the sliced onion rings in cold water or milk for 30 minutes before frying. This helps to remove some of the onion’s sharpness and makes them crispier. If you choose to soak them, be sure to pat them dry thoroughly before proceeding.
2. **Prepare the Flour Mixture:** In a small bowl, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
3. **Dredge the Onions:** Dredge the onion rings in the flour mixture, making sure they are completely coated. Shake off any excess flour. This will help the onions crisp up and prevent them from becoming soggy.
4. **Heat the Oil:** Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature. If the oil is too cold, the onions will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If the oil is too hot, they will burn quickly.
5. **Fry the Onions:** Carefully add the onion rings to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the fryer. Fry for 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon or spider to remove the onion rings from the oil and place them on a baking sheet lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. **Season Immediately:** While the onion rings are still hot, sprinkle them with a little extra salt, if desired. This will help the salt adhere to the onions and enhance their flavor.

**Step 4: Assemble and Bake the Casserole**

1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the drained green beans and the mushroom sauce. Toss gently to coat the green beans evenly with the sauce.
3. **Transfer to Baking Dish:** Pour the green bean mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
4. **Top with Onions:** Sprinkle the crispy fried onions evenly over the top of the green bean mixture. Reserve some onions for serving, if desired.
5. **Bake:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the onions are golden brown and crispy. The casserole should be heated through and the sauce should be slightly thickened.
6. **Rest:** Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly and makes it easier to serve.

Tips for Success

* **Don’t overcook the green beans:** Blanching the green beans properly is crucial. Overcooked green beans will become mushy in the casserole.
* **Use fresh, high-quality ingredients:** The better the quality of your ingredients, the better the flavor of your casserole.
* **Make the crispy fried onions ahead of time:** You can make the crispy fried onions a day or two ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will save you time on the day you plan to serve the casserole.
* **Adjust the seasonings to your taste:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with the seasonings. Add more salt, pepper, or nutmeg to suit your preferences.
* **Add a touch of heat:** For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mushroom sauce.
* **Get creative with the toppings:** Instead of just crispy fried onions, you can add other toppings like toasted breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, or chopped pecans.
* **Use different types of mushrooms:** Experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or oyster mushrooms, for a more complex flavor.
* **Make it vegetarian or vegan:** Use vegetable broth and plant-based milk and cream to make this casserole vegetarian or vegan. You can also find vegan fried onions in some stores.

Serving Suggestions

Green bean casserole is a classic side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Here are some serving suggestions:

* **Thanksgiving or Christmas Dinner:** Green bean casserole is a staple on holiday tables. Serve it alongside roasted turkey, ham, or prime rib.
* **Weeknight Meal:** Green bean casserole is also a great side dish for a simple weeknight meal. Serve it with grilled chicken, pork chops, or fish.
* **Potluck or Gathering:** Green bean casserole is a crowd-pleaser and is perfect for potlucks or gatherings.
* **Vegetarian Main Course:** For a vegetarian meal, serve green bean casserole with a side of mashed potatoes and a fresh salad.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Green bean casserole can be made ahead of time, which is especially helpful during the holidays.

* **Assemble the casserole:** You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Prepare the green beans, mushroom sauce, and crispy fried onions, and then assemble the casserole in the baking dish. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate.
* **Bake before serving:** When you’re ready to serve, remove the casserole from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the onions are golden brown and crispy. You may need to add a few extra minutes of baking time since the casserole will be cold.

Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerate:** Leftover green bean casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Store it in an airtight container.
* **Reheat:** To reheat, bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the onions may not be as crispy.
* **Freezing is not recommended:** Freezing green bean casserole is not recommended as the texture of the green beans and sauce can change, becoming mushy and watery upon thawing.

Variations

* **Cheese:** Add shredded cheddar cheese, Gruyere cheese, or Parmesan cheese for a cheesy twist. Sprinkle it on top before baking.
* **Bacon:** Add cooked and crumbled bacon for a smoky flavor.
* **Different herbs:** Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or sage.
* **Spicy:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
* **Different toppings:** Use different toppings, such as toasted breadcrumbs, chopped nuts, or crumbled crackers.

Fresh Green Bean Casserole Recipe

Here’s the complete recipe for fresh green bean casserole.

**Yields:** 8-10 servings
**Prep time:** 45 minutes
**Cook time:** 40 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
* 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 4 tablespoons butter
* 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
* 2 cups vegetable broth
* 1 cup milk
* 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
* 1 tablespoon dry sherry (optional)
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
* 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced into rings
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* Vegetable oil for frying

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Green Beans:**
* Wash the green beans and trim the ends. Cut or snap into 1-inch pieces.
* Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until bright green and slightly tender-crisp.
* Transfer the green beans to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain well and set aside.
2. **Make the Mushroom Sauce:**
* In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
* Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
* Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become tender, about 8-10 minutes.
* Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and onions and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
* Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Then, whisk in the milk and heavy cream (if using).
* Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly. Season with salt, pepper, nutmeg, sherry (if using), and Worcestershire sauce (if using). Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
3. **Prepare the Crispy Fried Onions:**
* In a small bowl, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
* Dredge the onion rings in the flour mixture, making sure they are completely coated. Shake off any excess flour.
* Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
* Carefully add the onion rings to the hot oil in batches and fry for 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
* Use a slotted spoon or spider to remove the onion rings from the oil and place them on a baking sheet lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Season immediately with a little extra salt, if desired.
4. **Assemble and Bake the Casserole:**
* Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
* In a large bowl, combine the drained green beans and the mushroom sauce. Toss gently to coat the green beans evenly with the sauce.
* Pour the green bean mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
* Sprinkle the crispy fried onions evenly over the top of the green bean mixture. Reserve some onions for serving, if desired.
* Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the onions are golden brown and crispy.
* Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious homemade fresh green bean casserole! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will elevate any meal.