Jump to Recipe Print RecipeStanding in my kitchen, the delightful aroma of sautéed mushrooms and garlic envelops me, transporting me back to family gatherings filled with laughter and love. This Homemade Green Bean Casserole, unlike any store-bought version, features a creamy mushroom sauce made from scratch and tender, crisp green beans sourced fresh from the market. Not only is this recipe a nourishing upgrade from canned ingredients, but it also brings a comforting touch to any meal, especially during the holiday season. Whether you’re a passionate home chef or simply looking to please the family, this dish’s scratch-made goodness and customizable nature make it a true crowd-pleaser. So, are you ready to elevate your casserole game with layers of creamy, flavor-rich delight? Why is this casserole a must-try? Nourishing Upgrade: Say goodbye to canned goods! This Homemade Green Bean Casserole uses fresh ingredients, ensuring a wholesome, vibrant dish. Creamy Deliciousness: The rich, scratch-made mushroom sauce envelops the green beans, melding flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Customizable Option: Whether you’re vegan or gluten-free, this recipe easily adapts to dietary preferences without compromising on taste. Ideal for Gatherings: Perfectly suited for holiday dinners or potlucks, it’s sure to impress guests alongside dishes like Crack Chicken Casserole. Quick Prep: With a straightforward cooking process, you can whip up this comforting dish in under an hour! Elevate your meal plans and create memories around the table with this unforgettable casserole. Homemade Green Bean Casserole Ingredients For the Crispy Shallots Medium Shallots – Adds sweetness and crunch; substitute with onions if needed. Vegetable Oil – For frying shallots until crispy; olive oil works for a different flavor. Creole Cajun Seasoning – Provides flavor and spice to fried shallots; seasoned salt can substitute if Cajun seasoning is unavailable. For the Casserole Fresh Green Beans – The main vegetable, providing the structure; frozen green beans can substitute but may alter texture. Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the sauce; vegan butter can substitute for a dairy-free version. Baby Bella Mushrooms – Source of umami in the sauce; white button mushrooms can be used instead. Garlic – Provides depth and flavor; fresh garlic is more flavorful than garlic paste. All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the sauce; use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option. Chicken Broth – Forms the base of the sauce; vegetable broth serves as a vegetarian alternative. Fresh Lemon Juice – Brightens flavors; substitute with apple cider vinegar for similar acidity. Dijon Mustard – Adds a tangy note; regular mustard can be used but will alter flavor slightly. Worcestershire Sauce – Enhances savory taste; look for a vegan alternative if needed. Dried Thyme – Adds aromatics; fresh thyme can substitute if available. Red Pepper Flakes – Optional for heat; omit if avoiding spice. Ground Nutmeg – Adds warmth and depth; use sparingly. Kosher Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Basic seasonings for flavor enhancement. Heavy Whipping Cream – Adds creaminess to the sauce; coconut cream works for a dairy-free version. Freshly Grated Parmesan – Adds a rich, nutty flavor; nutritional yeast can substitute for a vegan option. Create layers of flavor with this Homemade Green Bean Casserole that will impress everyone at your table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Green Bean Casserole Step 1: Prepare the Crispy Shallots Start by thinly slicing the medium shallots and heating about 1 cup of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, carefully add the shallots and fry until they turn golden brown, about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid burning. Once crispy, remove them with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels, then season with Creole Cajun seasoning for an added kick. Step 2: Blanch the Green Beans Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and add the fresh green beans. Blanch the beans for about 3 minutes, ensuring they stay vibrant green and slightly crisp. After the time is up, quickly transfer the beans to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain and set them aside while you prepare the creamy sauce for your homemade green bean casserole. Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 8 ounces of sliced baby Bella mushrooms and 2 minced garlic cloves, sautéing them until tender and fragrant, which should take around 5-7 minutes. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. This step builds the delicious umami flavor that forms the base of your creamy mushroom sauce. Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce Once the mushrooms are nicely sautéed, sprinkle in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and mix well to combine, cooking for about 1 minute. Gradually pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add in your seasonings like 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, and a pinch of dried thyme. Cook until the sauce thickens, which should take around 3-5 minutes, and then stir in 1 cup of heavy whipping cream for a luscious finish. Step 5: Assemble the Casserole Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the blanched green beans with the creamy mushroom sauce, ensuring they’re well-coated. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle half of your crispy shallots on top before placing it in the oven. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling. Step 6: Finish Baking with Shallots After 20 minutes, take the casserole out of the oven and carefully sprinkle the remaining crispy shallots over the top. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 7-10 minutes, or until the shallots are a deep golden brown and crunchy. This final step will ensure your Homemade Green Bean Casserole is both creamy and delightfully crispy. Step 7: Serve and Enjoy Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. The dish should be bubbling with a golden top and creamy texture. Serve hot as a comforting side dish, and watch as everyone gathers around to relish the layers of flavor in this homemade delight! What to Serve with Homemade Green Bean Casserole Imagine your family gathered around the table, savoring every bite of this creamy delight as it harmonizes with your carefully curated meal. Roasted Turkey: A classic pairing! The savory flavors complement the casserole perfectly, creating a comforting holiday feast. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, they provide a rich texture that beautifully balances the casserole’s flavors. Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness brightens the plate, offering a delightful contrast to the savory green bean casserole. Stuffing: Savory, herb-filled stuffing enhances the overall warmth of the meal and pairs excellently with the creamy side. Cranberry Sauce: The tartness cuts through the richness of the casserole, refreshing the palate and adding festive cheer. Grilled Chicken: For a lighter option, juicy grilled chicken adds protein and works well with the casserole’s hearty elements. Fall Salad: A salad with apples, nuts, and greens provides a fresh crunch that balances the dish’s creaminess nicely. Wine: A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the dish’s flavors without overwhelming the palate. Pumpkin Pie: End your meal on a sweet note! This traditional dessert offers a comforting finish to the flavors of the season. With these delightful pairings, your Homemade Green Bean Casserole becomes the star of an unforgettable meal! Homemade Green Bean Casserole Variations Get ready to add your own twist to this delicious dish and make it truly your own! Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy whipping cream with coconut cream and use vegan butter for a luscious dairy-free version. This swap enhances the creaminess while keeping the comforting essence of the casserole. Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free alternative, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for thickening. This ensures everyone at the table can enjoy the delight without sacrificing texture! Different Toppings: Try topping with crushed crackers or a mix of breadcrumbs with herbs for a crunchy twist. These options bring a delightful texture and an exciting flavor flair to each bite. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the creamy sauce for an extra kick of heat. This adjustment transforms your casserole into a spicy treat that heats things up! Herb Infusion: Replace dried thyme with fresh herbs like rosemary or sage for an aromatic upgrade. The freshness will elevate the flavor profile, making each forkful burst with herby goodness. Vegan Option: Omit the Parmesan and replace with nutritional yeast for a nutty, cheesy flavor that’s vegan-friendly. This way, you can enjoy the richness of flavor without any dairy. Seasonal Veggies: Mix in sautéed spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and vibrant color. It enhances both the flavor and the healthiness, inviting seasonal freshness to your table. Don’t forget, as you experiment with these variations, each one can complement other comforting dishes like Tomato Herby Bean Salad for a well-rounded meal, or serve alongside the ever-popular Cheese Steak Homemade for an unforgettable gathering! Enjoy the process of creating, and make this casserole your family’s new favorite. Expert Tips for Homemade Green Bean Casserole Crispy Shallots: Fry shallots in batches to ensure even crispiness; crowded pans can lead to soggy shallots. Fresh Green Beans: Opt for fresh green beans rather than frozen or canned; they provide better texture and flavor in your casserole. Adjust the Seasoning: Taste your creamy mushroom sauce before combining with green beans—adjust seasoning to match your family’s preferences. Layering Flavor: Don’t skip the crispy shallots topping; it adds an irresistible crunch that perfectly complements the creamy sauce. Cool Down: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving; it helps the sauce thicken and makes for a better presentation. Enjoy this delicious homemade green bean casserole and impress your family with its fresh, from-scratch goodness! How to Store and Freeze Homemade Green Bean Casserole Fridge: Cool any leftovers to room temperature and store in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, retaining its delicious flavor. Freezer: Freeze the casserole before baking for a convenient meal later. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil; it can last up to 3 months. Reheating: To reheat, place directly from the freezer into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 45-60 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating leftovers, do so in the microwave or oven until warmed. Make-Ahead Tip: You can assemble your Homemade Green Bean Casserole and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking, just cover it tightly to keep the moisture in. Make Ahead Options These Homemade Green Bean Casserole preparations are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the creamy mushroom sauce and blanch the green beans up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and keep the blanched beans covered to maintain their vibrant color and crispness. When you’re ready to serve, combine the beans with the sauce in a casserole dish, sprinkle half of the crispy shallots on top, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes. Add the remaining shallots for the last 7-10 minutes to achieve that delightful crunch. Enjoy the convenience of an easily assembled dish, just as delicious as when prepared fresh! Homemade Green Bean Casserole Recipe FAQs What type of green beans should I use? Absolutely, fresh green beans are the best choice for this Homemade Green Bean Casserole. They provide a nice crunch and vibrant color. If you must use frozen beans, just know that they may alter the overall texture of the dish. How should I store leftover casserole? Cool any leftovers to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container. The casserole will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’re planning to eat it later, be sure to cover tightly to preserve its delicious flavor! Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, you can freeze your Homemade Green Bean Casserole before baking! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it will last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to use, bake it straight from the freezer at 375°F for about 45-60 minutes until heated through. What if my sauce is too thick? If you find your creamy mushroom sauce too thick during preparation, don’t worry! Simply stir in a bit of additional chicken broth or heavy cream, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. It should be creamy but pourable to coat the green beans evenly. Are there any dietary considerations for this casserole? Certainly! This recipe is easily adaptable to suit various dietary needs. For a vegan version, swap out the butter for vegan butter, use coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream, and ensure your broth is vegetable-based. Just be mindful of substitutions like Worcestershire sauce, which may have non-vegan ingredients. How do I reheat the casserole? To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 375°F. For leftovers, heat until warmed through, around 15-20 minutes. If it’s frozen, you can bake it directly from the freezer for 45-60 minutes until it’s hot throughout. Enjoy the creamy layers of this comforting dish! Creamy Homemade Green Bean Casserole Made from Scratch Elevate your holiday meals with this Homemade Green Bean Casserole featuring a creamy, scratch-made mushroom sauce and fresh green beans. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 55 minutes mins Servings: 8 servingsCourse: CasseroleCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Crispy Shallots2 medium Shallots Adds sweetness and crunch; substitute with onions if needed.1 cup Vegetable Oil For frying shallots until crispy; olive oil works for a different flavor.1 tablespoon Creole Cajun Seasoning Provides flavor and spice to fried shallots; seasoned salt can substitute if Cajun seasoning is unavailable.For the Casserole1 pound Fresh Green Beans The main vegetable, providing the structure; frozen green beans can substitute but may alter texture.2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Adds richness to the sauce; vegan butter can substitute for a dairy-free version.8 ounces Baby Bella Mushrooms Source of umami in the sauce; white button mushrooms can be used instead.2 cloves Garlic Provides depth and flavor; fresh garlic is more flavorful than garlic paste.1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Thickens the sauce; use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.2 cups Chicken Broth Forms the base of the sauce; vegetable broth serves as a vegetarian alternative.1 tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice Brightens flavors; substitute with apple cider vinegar for similar acidity.1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Adds a tangy note; regular mustard can be used but will alter flavor slightly.1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce Enhances savory taste; look for a vegan alternative if needed.1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Adds aromatics; fresh thyme can substitute if available.1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional for heat; omit if avoiding spice.1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg Adds warmth and depth; use sparingly.1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Basic seasonings for flavor enhancement.1 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper Basic seasonings for flavor enhancement.1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream Adds creaminess to the sauce; coconut cream works for a dairy-free version.1/2 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Adds a rich, nutty flavor; nutritional yeast can substitute for a vegan option. Equipment deep skilletMedium saucepanLarge potCasserole DishSlotted spoon Method Preparation StepsStart by thinly slicing the medium shallots and heating about 1 cup of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, carefully add the shallots and fry until they turn golden brown, about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid burning. Once crispy, remove them with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels, then season with Creole Cajun seasoning for an added kick.Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and add the fresh green beans. Blanch the beans for about 3 minutes, ensuring they stay vibrant green and slightly crisp. After the time is up, quickly transfer the beans to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain and set them aside while you prepare the creamy sauce for your homemade green bean casserole.In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 8 ounces of sliced baby Bella mushrooms and 2 minced garlic cloves, sautéing them until tender and fragrant, which should take around 5-7 minutes. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. This step builds the delicious umami flavor that forms the base of your creamy mushroom sauce.Once the mushrooms are nicely sautéed, sprinkle in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and mix well to combine, cooking for about 1 minute. Gradually pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add in your seasonings like 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, and a pinch of dried thyme. Cook until the sauce thickens, which should take around 3-5 minutes, and then stir in 1 cup of heavy whipping cream for a luscious finish.Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the blanched green beans with the creamy mushroom sauce, ensuring they're well-coated. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish. For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle half of your crispy shallots on top before placing it in the oven. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling.After 20 minutes, take the casserole out of the oven and carefully sprinkle the remaining crispy shallots over the top. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 7-10 minutes, or until the shallots are a deep golden brown and crunchy. This final step will ensure your Homemade Green Bean Casserole is both creamy and delightfully crispy.Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. The dish should be bubbling with a golden top and creamy texture. Serve hot as a comforting side dish, and watch as everyone gathers around to relish the layers of flavor in this homemade delight! Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 6gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg NotesCool any leftovers to room temperature and store in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For freezing, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil; it can last up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
