Introduction to Creamy Green Bean Casserole
When it comes to comfort food, creamy green bean casserole reigns supreme, especially when made from scratch. Why settle for a canned version when you can craft something fresh and delightful in your own kitchen? Homemade casseroles are a game-changer for multiple reasons.
Why Homemade Casseroles are a Game-Changer
Firstly, there's a significant difference in flavor and texture between store-bought and homemade. Preparing your casserole from scratch allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring quality and freshness. You can use crisp, vibrant green beans and flavorful mushrooms instead of processed alternatives. This not only enhances the taste but also boosts the nutritional value—a win-win!
Moreover, making casseroles at home can be a simple yet fulfilling cooking project. You can prep ahead for gatherings or weekday meals, making it easy to bring the family together. Plus, there's something deeply satisfying about whisking together your own creamy sauce and topping it with freshly baked onions.
For those busy young professionals out there, homemade casseroles are also practical. They provide hearty portions that can be enjoyed throughout the week, simplifying your meal planning. So, let's dive into this delightful recipe and make a creamy green bean casserole that will impress your friends and family!
Ingredients for Creamy Green Bean Casserole
Creating a delicious creamy green bean casserole from scratch is all about gathering the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this comforting dish that will leave your friends and family asking for seconds.
List of ingredients needed
Baked “Fried” Onions:
- 1 medium onion
- ½ cup (62g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
- ¾ cup (45g) panko breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1 Tablespoon (15ml) milk
Green Bean Casserole:
- 1 Tablespoon + 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- 1 pound fresh green beans, rinsed, ends trimmed, and halved
- 2 Tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter
- 8 ounces sliced mushrooms
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 Tablespoons (15g) all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup (180ml) chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 and ¼ cups (300ml) half-and-half
Gather these items, and you’ll be well on your way to making a truly hearty and satisfying creamy green bean casserole. By using fresh ingredients, you ensure the best flavor and texture. For more tips on ingredient quality, check out this guide to choosing fresh vegetables.
Step-by-step Preparation of Creamy Green Bean Casserole
Creating a creamy green bean casserole from scratch is an enjoyable process that's perfect for gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. Follow these five simple steps to bring this comforting dish to life.
Prepare the Baked “Fried” Onions
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). Thinly slice a medium onion and separate the slices. Set out three bowls: one with ½ cup of flour, a second with ¾ cup of panko breadcrumbs mixed with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and a third for whisking one egg with a tablespoon of milk.
With one hand for dry ingredients and the other for wet, dip the onion slices first into the flour, then the egg mixture, and finally coat them well in the panko. Spread them out on a lined baking sheet and bake until golden brown, about 20 minutes, flipping halfway. This crispy onion topping adds a delightful crunch to your creamy green bean casserole.
Blanch the Green Beans
While your onions bake, it's time to prepare the green beans. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, adding a tablespoon of salt to season. Once boiling, add in 1 pound of fresh green beans (after rinsing and trimming) and let them boil for 5 minutes. Prepare a large bowl filled with ice water nearby. Once the beans are done, immediately transfer them to the ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside, ensuring they retain their beautiful green color and crunch.
Make the Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Now for the star of your creamy green bean casserole: the sauce. In a large ovenproof skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Add 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms along with 1 teaspoon of salt and ground black pepper. Cook until the mushrooms are soft and start releasing their juices, about 5 minutes. After that, stir in 2 minced garlic cloves, cooking for an additional 2 minutes. Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of flour, mixing well, followed by ¾ cup of chicken or vegetable broth. Simmer for about 3 minutes, then reduce the heat to medium-low and slowly mix in 1 and ¼ cups of half-and-half, cooking until thickened—around 10 minutes.
Combine and Assemble the Casserole
Remove the skillet from heat and fold in about a quarter of the baked onions and the blanched green beans. Stir until everything is well combined. If your skillet isn't oven-safe, carefully transfer this mixture to a greased 2-3 quart casserole dish. Top it generously with the remaining baked onions for that irresistible crunch.
Bake and Finish the Casserole
Now, reduce your oven temperature to 400°F (204°C) and pop your dish into the oven. Bake until the casserole is bubbling around the edges, approximately 15 minutes. The result? A mouthwatering, creamy green bean casserole that will impress your family and friends!
And there you have it—dinner is served! This dish is even better the second day, sitting in the refrigerator for up to four days. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of your homemade creamy green bean casserole!
Variations of Creamy Green Bean Casserole
Vegetarian-friendly Options
If you're looking to make a creamy green bean casserole that caters to vegetarian diets, consider substituting the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can enhance the dish with additional flavor by adding ingredients like sliced bell peppers or even roasted garlic. For a nutty twist, try using cashew cream instead of half-and-half for creaminess—it's a delicious dairy-free alternative!
Add-ins and Substitutions
Get creative with your creamy green bean casserole! You can mix in ingredients like Turkey Bacon for a savory crunch or incorporate Chicken Ham for a heartier dish. Feel free to replace the mushrooms with spinach or artichokes for a fresh twist, or add some spices, like paprika or thyme, to elevate the flavors. Remember, it's all about making this comforting classic your own! For more ideas, check out The Kitchn’s Guide.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Creamy Green Bean Casserole
Make-Ahead and Freezing Instructions
Planning a gathering or just want to ease your cooking routine? You can definitely make this creamy green bean casserole in advance! Simply follow these steps:
- Prepare the casserole: Assemble the entire dish up to the baking point, then let it cool before covering tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Refrigerate: Store it in the fridge overnight. When you're ready to bake, just pop it into a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) for about 20 minutes until bubbly.
For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking. This makes meal prep a breeze!
Serving Suggestions for Creamy Green Bean Casserole
Pairing with Main Dishes
Your creamy green bean casserole is a versatile side that pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes. Consider serving it alongside roasted chicken, Turkey Bacon wrapped meatloaf, or a decadent chicken ham. For a vegetarian option, it complements a savory salad with grilled vegetables perfectly. Don't forget to add a crusty loaf of bread or buttery dinner rolls to soak up all that creamy goodness!
Presentation Ideas
A well-presented creamy green bean casserole is a feast for the eyes. Serve it in a beautiful dish, perhaps topped with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color. If you're hosting, consider family-style plating, allowing guests to help themselves. For a touch of elegance, garnish with a sprinkle of toasted almonds or crispy fried onions. This simple touch can elevate your dish and create an inviting atmosphere.
For more inspiration, check out articles on Pinterest or Food Network.
Time Breakdown for Creamy Green Bean Casserole
Preparation Time
The preparation for this delicious creamy green bean casserole takes about 30 minutes. Make sure to set aside enough time to slice the onions, blanch the green beans, and gather all your ingredients.
Cooking Time
Once prepared, the cooking time runs approximately 35 minutes. This includes baking the onions and the casserole itself, allowing you to enjoy that delightful bubbling goodness!
Total Time
All in all, you’re looking at a total time of 1 hour and 5 minutes to bring this comforting dish from scratch to your dinner table. Perfect for a cozy night in or a festive family gathering!
For tips on helping you prepare this dish efficiently, check out these kitchen organization hacks. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Facts for Creamy Green Bean Casserole
When preparing your creamy green bean casserole, it's always helpful to keep an eye on the nutritional aspects. Here’s a quick snapshot of what you can expect per serving:
Calories
Approximately 280 calories make this dish a comforting yet manageable addition to your meal.
Protein
You'll get about 7 grams of protein from the blend of green beans and dairy, helping you stay full longer.
Fat Content
With around 15 grams of fat, the richness primarily comes from the use of half-and-half and butter, creating that signature creaminess we all love.
Whether you're feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this creamy green bean casserole fits well into your lifestyle, keeping flavor and nutrition in mind. For more detailed nutritional insights, check out the USDA's FoodData Central.
FAQs about Creamy Green Bean Casserole
How can I simplify this recipe?
If you're short on time, consider using store-bought fried onions instead of making your own. This will save you preparation time without sacrificing too much flavor. You can also skip blanching the green beans; just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they don't become overcooked.
Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh green beans add a delightful crunch and a vibrant color to your creamy green bean casserole. Just make sure to blanch them as indicated in the recipe for the best results. Alternatively, if you're in a pinch, frozen green beans can work well too.
What if I don’t like mushrooms?
No worries! If mushrooms aren't your favorite, consider swapping them for other vegetables like diced bell peppers or simply omitting them altogether. You can enhance the flavor of your casserole with extra garlic or even some fresh herbs for an interesting twist.
For more tips and recipe inspirations, check out sources like Food Network or Serious Eats.
Conclusion on Creamy Green Bean Casserole
This creamy green bean casserole is a showstopper that brings warmth and nostalgia to any meal. With fresh ingredients and a homemade touch, it’s a must-try dish that elevates your dining experience. Give it a go; your taste buds will thank you! For more delicious recipes, check out Food Network.
Creamy Green Bean Casserole from Scratch
Equipment
- Oven
- baking sheet
- Large mixing bowl
- medium saucepan
- Skillet
Ingredients
Baked “Fried” Onions
- 1 medium onion
- ½ cup all-purpose flour spooned & leveled
- ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1 Tablespoon milk
Green Bean Casserole
- 1 Tablespoon salt divided
- 1 pound fresh green beans rinsed, ends trimmed, and halved
- 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter
- 8 ounces sliced mushrooms
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 and ¼ cups half-and-half
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Set aside.
- For the onions: Thinly slice the onion, and separate the slices. Pour flour in one small bowl, panko + salt + pepper into a medium bowl, and whisk the egg and milk together in another small bowl. To bread the onion slices, dip a few slices into the flour, then into the egg mixture, and finally into the panko. Place onto baking sheet. Repeat with the rest of the onions. Bake onions until golden brown, about 20 minutes, flipping them twice. Set them aside.
- Reduce oven temperature to 400°F (204°C).
- Blanch the green beans: Bring a gallon of water and 1 Tablespoon of salt to a boil in a large saucepan. Add the green beans and boil for 5 minutes. Fill a large bowl with ice water and set near the sink. Drain the beans and immediately transfer them into the bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again and set aside.
- For the casserole: Over medium-high heat, melt the butter in a large ovenproof skillet. Add the mushrooms, 1 teaspoon salt, and the pepper. Cook until mushrooms release moisture—about 5 minutes. Add garlic, cook for another 2 minutes. Sprinkle flour on top and stir until combined. Add broth and simmer for 3 minutes. Reduce heat and add half-and-half, cooking until mixture thickens—about 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat, add about a quarter of the onions and all of the green beans. Stir to combine. Top with remaining onions and bake until bubbling, about 15 minutes. Serve warm.
- Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat as desired.
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