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Green Bean Casserole Recipe – Best Homemade Holiday Side Dish

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This homemade green bean casserole is a fresh, flavorful upgrade to the classic holiday side dish, featuring crisp green beans, a creamy mushroom sauce, and a crunchy onion topping. It’s easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and free from processed ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 8 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
  • 1 1/2 cups crispy fried onions (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water (about 2 teaspoons salt) to a boil.
  2. Add green beans and boil for 3-4 minutes until bright green and just tender.
  3. Drain immediately and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
  4. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter.
  5. Add chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
  6. Stir in sliced mushrooms and cook 5-6 minutes until golden and moisture is released.
  7. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  8. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and whisk well to coat.
  9. Gradually pour in milk and broth, whisking constantly.
  10. Simmer 4-5 minutes, stirring often, until thick and creamy. Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
  11. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  12. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, mix blanched green beans with mushroom sauce and spread evenly.
  13. In a bowl, toss crispy onions, panko, and melted butter.
  14. Sprinkle topping evenly over casserole.
  15. Bake uncovered for 22-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. If topping browns too quickly, cover lightly with foil for the last 10 minutes.
  16. Let casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

For best texture, use fresh green beans and sauté mushrooms until golden. Add crispy onions and panko just before baking for maximum crunch. Make ahead by assembling the casserole and sauce a day in advance, storing the topping separately. For gluten-free, use GF flour and onions. For vegan, use plant-based milk, butter, and vegan onions.

Nutrition

Keywords: green bean casserole, holiday side dish, Thanksgiving, homemade, creamy mushroom sauce, crispy onions, vegetarian option, gluten-free option, comfort food