Name: Absolutely Delicious Green Bean Casserole from Scratch
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 packages frozen French cut green beans (12 ounces each); 8 ounces cremini mushrooms (quartered); 1 small onion (halved and thinly sliced); 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley; 3 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon lemon zest; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 pinch ground black pepper; ½ cup milk; 1 cup sour cream; ½ cup shredded Cheddar cheese; 1 can French-fried onions (2.8 ounces)

Absolutely Delicious Green Bean Casserole: A Homemade Delight

Why Should You Ditch the Canned Soup for This Creamy Casserole?

Let’s be real: while the classic green bean casserole with canned soup might hold a special place in our hearts, nothing beats the freshness and flavor of a homemade version. When you make this absolutely delicious green bean casserole from scratch, the difference is tangible!

Quality Ingredients: By using fresh cremini mushrooms and French-cut green beans, you can savor vibrant flavors that canned products just can't match. Enjoy the crunch of tender beans and the earthiness of fresh mushrooms with every bite.
Creamy Homemade Sauce: The creamy Cheddar sauce in this recipe is a revelation. With a blend of milk, sour cream, and cheese, you create a luscious topping that perfectly complements the beans. It’s so satisfying that you might want to use it in other dishes!
Easy Customizations: When you make this from scratch, you have complete control over the ingredients. Want extra cheese? Go for it! Adding in some turkey bacon or chicken ham can elevate your casserole to new heights.

With just a short prep time and compelling flavors, this homemade delight will quickly become a favorite at any gathering. Say goodbye to your reliable can and give this green bean casserole a try—you won’t look back!

For more homemade recipes, check out Food Network and Serious Eats.

Ingredients for Absolutely Delicious Green Bean Casserole

When crafting the absolute delicious green bean casserole, a few essential ingredients are crucial to capturing that homemade taste. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Ingredients for the Casserole

Frozen French cut green beans: Two 12-ounce packages ensure the perfect texture.
Cremini mushrooms: Eight ounces, quartered, add a rich, earthy flavor.
Butter and onion: Essential for that luscious base; a small onion, halved and sliced, adds sweetness.
Homemade Cheddar sauce: Crafted with milk, sour cream, flour, and shredded Cheddar, it’s creamy deliciousness in every bite. Don’t forget the lemon zest, salt, and pepper to elevate the flavor!

Optional Add-Ins to Elevate the Dish

Want to make your casserole stand out? Consider these tasty add-ins:

Garlic: A couple of cloves, minced, infuses the dish with aromatic goodness.
Turkey bacon or Chicken ham: For a savory twist, either option provides great flavor and texture.
Additional veggies: Bell peppers or corn can bring a pop of color and nutrition.

Feel free to experiment and make this dish uniquely yours! For more inspiration, check out the Culinary Institute of America for tips on enhancing flavors.

Step-by-Step Preparation for Absolutely Delicious Green Bean Casserole

Creating an absolutely delicious green bean casserole from scratch is not just about the dish itself; it's about the joy of cooking and sharing a heartfelt meal with loved ones. Let’s dive into the preparation steps to set you up for success!

Gather and prep your fresh ingredients

Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients. You’ll need:

2 (12-ounce) packages frozen French cut green beans
8 ounces of quartered cremini mushrooms
3 tablespoons of butter
1 small onion, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon lemon zest
½ teaspoon salt
A pinch of black pepper
½ cup milk
1 cup sour cream
½ cup shredded Cheddar cheese
1 (2.8-ounce) can French-fried onions

Give your mushrooms and onions a good wash and chop them as recommended. The fresher your ingredients, the more vibrant your casserole will be.

Steam the green beans to perfection

To achieve that perfectly tender, yet crisp green bean texture, steam your beans. Start by boiling a pot of water and placing the green beans in a steamer basket. Cover it up and let them steam for about 5 minutes, or until they are bright green and tender. Once done, drain and set aside.

Sauté the onions and mushrooms until they're golden

In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Toss in your sliced onions and chopped parsley. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes, until the onions turn golden and fragrant. Add in the quartered cremini mushrooms, cooking until they are soft and lightly browned. This step adds an earthy flavor that’s essential for a comforting green bean casserole.

Create the creamy Cheddar sauce from scratch

Now it’s time for the star of the show—our homemade creamy sauce! Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour to the sautéed vegetables until well-blended. Gradually add ½ cup of milk, continuously stirring to avoid lumps. Include the lemon zest, salt, and pepper for a flavor boost. Once it starts to bubble, fold in the sour cream, and finally, your shredded Cheddar cheese until everything is combined and gooey.

Combine all ingredients and prepare for baking

Now, it's time to mix! Pour the drained green beans and mushrooms into the creamy Cheddar sauce and give it a good stir to coat every bit. Transfer this delightful mixture into a greased 1.5-quart casserole dish, and sprinkle the remaining Cheddar cheese and half the French-fried onions on top for that irresistible crunch.

Bake until the casserole is bubbling and golden

Pop your casserole into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15 minutes. You want it to be bubbling and beautifully golden on top. This will create a symphony of flavors and textures that will surely impress anyone at the table.

Ready to dig into this absolutely delicious green bean casserole? Serve it hot, and watch it disappear!

For tips on how to customize this recipe or to explore other comforting dishes, check out Allrecipes for inspiration. Cooking with fresh ingredients and a sprinkle of love truly makes a difference!

Variations of Absolutely Delicious Green Bean Casserole

How about a vegetarian twist?

For a delightful vegetarian variation of your absolutely delicious green bean casserole, skip the chicken ham and load your dish with fresh veggies. Think roasted red peppers and zucchini for added depth. You might also try using plant-based cheese for that melty goodness without losing flavor. It’s a fantastic option for gatherings with friends following a plant-based lifestyle.

Add some crunch with different toppings

To change things up, consider various toppings that can elevate your casserole’s texture and taste. Swap traditional French-fried onions for panko breadcrumbs mixed with herbs and Parmesan for a crunchy twist. Alternatively, crispy Turkey Bacon can add savory notes, making the dish even more irresistible. Explore the world of toppings to find your favorite combination! For more inspirational recipes, check out this comprehensive guide to casserole toppings.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Absolutely Delicious Green Bean Casserole

Ensure Your Sauce is Lump-Free

To achieve an absolutely delicious green bean casserole, nothing beats a silky-smooth sauce! When whisking in the milk, stir continuously to prevent lumps from forming. If you do spot some pesky clumps, a quick blend with an immersion blender can save the day. Remember, a creamy texture elevates your dish!

Adjust Seasoning to Suit Your Taste

Your taste buds are unique, so don't hesitate to customize the seasoning! Sprinkle in extra black pepper or a touch more salt to bring out the flavors. A dash of garlic powder can also add depth. Taste as you go—this is your casserole, after all! Consider checking out this article on seasoning techniques for more tips. Enjoy making it your own!

Serving Suggestions for Absolutely Delicious Green Bean Casserole

Pairing with Your Favorite Main Courses

For a wholesome meal featuring your absolutely delicious green bean casserole, consider serving it alongside roasted turkey, grilled chicken, or herb-crusted beef. These proteins complement the rich flavors of the casserole beautifully, creating a comforting and hearty plate. If you're planning a casual get-together, this dish pairs perfectly with a barbecue spread or a simple weekday dinner. Don’t forget to explore options like lean turkey bacon for added flavor or sprinkle some chicken ham for an extra savory twist.

Adding a Salad for a Complete Meal

To create a well-rounded meal, a fresh salad is a perfect addition. Think of a crisp mixed greens salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. This contrasts nicely with the creamy texture of the absolutely delicious green bean casserole and adds a refreshing bite that’s full of nutrients. Try incorporating seasonal vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or even apple slices for sweetness. A simple side salad not only enhances your dish but also brings balance and vibrancy to your dinner table!

For more ideas on complementary dishes, check out Food Network's salad recipes.

Time Breakdown for Absolutely Delicious Green Bean Casserole

Preparation Time

Getting started on your absolutely delicious green bean casserole is a breeze! You'll need about 15 minutes to gather your ingredients and prepare them, including washing, slicing, and mixing everything together.

Cooking Time

Once everything is ready, the cooking part takes approximately 35 minutes. This includes steaming the beans, creating that creamy sauce, and baking the casserole to golden perfection.

Total Time

In just 50 minutes, you can serve this mouthwatering dish to your family or guests. The delightful layers of green beans and Cheddar cheese will have everyone asking for seconds!

For tips on how to make this dish even more fabulous, you can check out resources like Cooking Light or Food Network.

Nutritional Facts for Absolutely Delicious Green Bean Casserole

Calories per serving

Each serving of this absolutely delicious green bean casserole has about 283 calories. This makes it a delightful, indulgent side dish that won't break your calorie bank at dinner!

Key nutrients included

This comforting casserole is not just tasty; it's packed with nutrients:

Total Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 48mg
Sodium: 400mg
Total Carbohydrate: 22g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 8g
Protein: 8g
Vitamin C: 13mg
Calcium: 196mg
Iron: 1mg
Potassium: 464mg

Each bite brings not only flavor but also benefits like dietary fiber and protein, contributing to a balanced meal. Ever wondered why green beans are such a staple in casseroles? Their crunchy texture and fresh taste complement the creamy sauce so perfectly! For more detailed insights on the nutritional benefits of the ingredients, check out Healthline's article on green beans. Enjoy this classic dish guilt-free at your next gathering!

FAQs about Absolutely Delicious Green Bean Casserole

Can I use fresh green beans instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh green beans can elevate your absolutely delicious green bean casserole with their crisp texture and vibrant flavor. Just trim and cut them into similar lengths to frozen green beans, and you'll be good to go. You may need to parboil them for about 3-5 minutes before mixing them into the casserole to ensure they’re tender enough.

How can I store leftovers?

Storing leftovers is a breeze! Allow your casserole to cool completely, then cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to enjoy the casserole after that, consider freezing it for up to three months. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe dish!

What’s the best way to reheat this casserole?

To reheat your absolutely delicious green bean casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the casserole to an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil to prevent drying out, and bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick option—just be sure to cover them to retain moisture!

Conclusion on Absolutely Delicious Green Bean Casserole

In conclusion, this absolutely delicious green bean casserole from scratch is more than just a dish; it’s a heartfelt tradition that brings family and friends together. With fresh ingredients and a creamy homemade sauce, it’s sure to impress your guests and become a recurring favorite at your gatherings. Enjoy!