Ah, the smell of comfort food wafting through the kitchen! There’s something about the earthy, delightful aroma of freshly cooked green beans mingling with savory mushrooms that instantly brings me back to my grandmother’s bustling kitchen during the holidays. As a child, I would hover eagerly by the stove, my nose twitching with anticipation, waiting to sneak a taste of that gooey, cheesy, crispy-topped casserole. It was a staple, one I always looked forward to. Now, I’m thrilled to carry on that tradition and share this Delicious Green Bean Casserole From Scratch Recipe with you! It’s everything you remember, but made with love and a sprinkle of my own flair.

This dish has a wonderfully nostalgic vibe, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s super straightforward to whip up, so put on your favorite playlist, and let’s cook up some joy together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Made from scratch: Skip the can and embrace fresh ingredients for a vibrant flavor.
• Easy preparation: Simple steps mean you can have this on the table in no time.
• Budget-friendly: Using fresh vegetables and pantry staples won’t break the bank.
• Comforting Flavors: The mix of creamy, savory, and crispy will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Customizable: Feel free to adapt it to suit your family’s tastes or dietary needs!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful casserole:

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (you can use cremini, button, or a mix!)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic adds more punch than powdered!)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream (or swap for half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (adds umami flavor!)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (for a bit of zing)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade, plus an extra half cup for topping!)

Feel free to mix and match ingredients! For instance, add some grated Parmesan for a cheesier taste, or toss in a sprinkle of nutmeg for a warm spiced flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s dive into creating this beauty together! Follow these simple steps for a deliciously rewarding casserole:

1. Prepare the Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and blanch them for about 5 minutes until they’re bright green and slightly tender. Drain them and immediately plunge them into an ice bath to stop the cooking. This keeps them crisp and vibrant!
2. Sauté the Veggies: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Next, toss in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are golden brown, allowing that fantastic aroma to fill your kitchen! Stir in the minced garlic for the final minute of cooking.
3. Create the Sauce: Once the mushrooms are ready, lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Combine and Assemble: In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched green beans with the creamy mushroom mixture. Fold in 1 cup of crispy fried onions for that extra crunch and flavor. Pour everything into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
5. Topping Time: Sprinkle the extra half cup of crispy fried onions on top of the casserole. Pop it into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden brown on top. Your kitchen will smell divine!

Pro Tips & Variations

Let’s have a little fun with this dish! Here are some tips and creative variations:

• Cheesy Delight: If you love cheese, stir in some shredded cheddar or Gruyère before baking for a gooey topping.
• Herb It Up: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can add a delightful freshness. Toss in a tablespoon or so while sautéing the onions.
• Add Protein: To turn this into a main dish, feel free to add cooked chicken or turkey. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftovers!
• Make It Vegan: Swap out the butter for olive oil, use non-dairy cream, and check your fried onions to ensure they’re plant-based.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving, this Delicious Green Bean Casserole From Scratch pairs perfectly with a fresh, crusty loaf of French bread to soak up all that creamy goodness. I like to set the table with a mixed greens salad tossed in a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Oh, and don’t forget a nice cup of herbal tea or a rich coffee to round off the meal! It’s all about cozying up, right?

Storage Tips

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to keep them delicious:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just reheat in the microwave or oven—you may want to add a little splash of cream to regain that saucy goodness!
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well too! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last about 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use canned green beans instead of fresh ones?

While fresh green beans give the best texture and flavor, you can use canned ones if you’re in a pinch! Just drain them well and reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid mushiness.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, just cover it and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven for even cooking.

What can I do if my casserole is too dry?

If your casserole looks a little dry before serving, simply drizzle some extra cream or broth over it and give it a gentle stir. Reheat it for a few minutes and you’ll have it back to its creamy self!

Are there any gluten-free options?

Yes! You can find gluten-free crispy fried onions in the store, or you can make your own using gluten-free breadcrumbs. Just be sure to check all labels when you’re shopping around!

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you like a kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes to your cream sauce. You could even add diced jalapeños for a fresh twist.

Conclusion

I hope you fall in love with this Delicious Green Bean Casserole From Scratch Recipe just as much as I do! It’s more than just a side dish; it’s a nostalgic nod to family gatherings and warm memories. I’d love to hear how yours turns out! Feel free to drop a comment below or share any fun twists you’ve tried. Let’s keep the cooking love going!