If you’ve been searching for that perfect comforting dish to bring to any family meal or holiday feast, you’re in for a treat with this Green Bean Casserole with Mushroom Sauce and Crispy Fried Onions Recipe. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with fresh green beans coated in a luscious mushroom sauce, all topped with crunchy golden onions. This classic dish captures the best of textures and flavors, transforming humble ingredients into something truly unforgettable. Whether you’re a casserole veteran or trying this dish for the first time, it’s certain to become a cherished staple on your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet crucial to building the delightful contrast of flavors and textures that make this dish so special. Each one plays a unique role: vibrant green beans for freshness, savory mushrooms for depth, creamy half & half for smoothness, and crispy onions for that irresistible crunch.
- 2 pounds fresh green beans: Trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces to keep them tender-crisp and bright green.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps soften the onions and mushrooms perfectly.
- 1 medium yellow onion: Finely chopped to bring a gentle sweetness and flavor base.
- 3 cloves garlic: Minced for a savory punch that complements the mushrooms beautifully.
- 8 ounces button or cremini mushrooms: Sliced to create the hearty, earthy mushroom sauce.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Used to thicken the sauce without lumps.
- 2 cups half & half: Makes the sauce creamy and smooth, balancing out the savory flavors.
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth: Adds moisture and depth of flavor to the mushroom sauce.
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce: Enhances umami and brings a subtle savory boost.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Seasoning to bring all the flavors together.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth and depth.
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: A hint of warm spice that complements the creamy sauce.
- 1½ cups crispy fried onions: The star crunch topping that makes this dish so irresistible.
How to Make Green Bean Casserole with Mushroom Sauce and Crispy Fried Onions Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Beans
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C)—this gives it time to reach the perfect temperature by the time you assemble your casserole. Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, and blanch your fresh green beans for just 2-3 minutes until they turn a vibrant green and soften slightly. Immediately transfer them to ice water to stop the cooking process; this keeps the beans bright and crisp, which is essential for that perfect texture in your casserole.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics and Mushrooms
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes, allowing its natural sweetness to develop. Toss in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes. You’ll notice the mushrooms releasing their moisture and starting to brown, which intensifies their flavor and builds the foundation of the sauce.
Step 3: Make the Mushroom Sauce
Sprinkle the flour evenly over your mushroom mixture, stirring constantly to coat everything well. Cooking for 1-2 minutes here removes any raw flour taste and starts thickening the base. Gradually whisk in the broth and half & half, stirring constantly to avoid any lumps from forming. Now add the soy sauce, salt, pepper, and a touch of nutmeg—these seasonings enhance the savory, creamy sauce perfectly. Simmer the sauce for about 5 minutes, stirring often until it thickens to a luscious consistency.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
In your 9×13-inch casserole dish, mix the blanched green beans with the mushroom sauce and half a cup of crispy fried onions. Stir gently to ensure each bean is coated in that creamy goodness. Spread the mixture evenly in the dish, then sprinkle the remaining crispy fried onions on top to create that iconic golden crust. Pop the casserole in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the sauce is bubbling and the onions are perfectly browned and crunchy. Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly before serving to allow the sauce to set just a bit.
How to Serve Green Bean Casserole with Mushroom Sauce and Crispy Fried Onions Recipe
Garnishes
While the crispy fried onions already add a fantastic topping, don’t hesitate to sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley or chives over the casserole for a burst of color and a hint of fresh herbal brightness. A few freshly cracked black peppercorns on top can also add visual appeal and a slight peppery kick right at the time of serving.
Side Dishes
This Green Bean Casserole with Mushroom Sauce and Crispy Fried Onions Recipe pairs beautifully with hearty mains such as roast turkey, baked ham, or herb-crusted chicken. Consider complementing it with fluffy mashed potatoes or a creamy rice pilaf to round out a perfectly comforting meal that everyone will love. The dish’s creamy and crunchy elements make it versatile and crowd-pleasing.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more modern twist, try serving individual portions of this casserole in small ramekins topped with a custom blend of fried shallots and crushed nuts for added texture. Another idea is to layer the green beans and mushroom sauce in a clear baking dish to showcase the vibrant greens beneath the crispy golden topping, making it as visually delightful as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Green Bean Casserole with Mushroom Sauce and Crispy Fried Onions Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best texture, it’s a good idea to store the crispy fried onions separately and add them fresh when reheating to maintain their crunch.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole before baking by assembling the green beans and mushroom sauce layers but holding off on the crispy onions topping. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and add fresh crispy onions before baking.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Adding extra crispy fried onions on top right before reheating ensures the texture remains satisfyingly crunchy. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the creamy sauce separate and the onions soggy.
FAQs
Can I use canned green beans for this recipe?
While fresh green beans offer the best texture and flavor for this casserole, you can use canned green beans in a pinch. Just be sure to drain them well and reduce the blanching time. However, the dish shines brightest with fresh beans.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Green Bean Casserole with Mushroom Sauce and Crispy Fried Onions Recipe?
Absolutely! Simply substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth to keep the sauce flavorful without any meat products. The mushrooms and soy sauce provide enough umami to keep the dish hearty and satisfying.
Can I make the mushroom sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mushroom sauce up to a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently before mixing with the green beans and assembling the casserole.
What can I use if I don’t have half & half?
If you don’t have half & half on hand, you can mix equal parts milk and heavy cream as a substitute. This will give you the same creamy richness that’s essential for the sauce.
How can I make the crispy fried onions homemade?
To make your own crispy fried onions, thinly slice onions, toss them with a bit of flour and seasoning, and fry them in hot oil until golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels and sprinkle over your casserole for an extra personal touch.
Final Thoughts
This Green Bean Casserole with Mushroom Sauce and Crispy Fried Onions Recipe is truly a treasure to have in your culinary repertoire. It offers that perfect harmony of creamy, crunchy, and fresh that can brighten any meal or occasion. I encourage you to try making it for your next gathering — it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that comforts and delights every time.
Print
Green Bean Casserole with Mushroom Sauce and Crispy Fried Onions Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Green Bean Casserole recipe features fresh green beans in a creamy mushroom sauce topped with crispy fried onions, baked to perfection. It’s a delightful, comforting side dish perfect for holiday dinners or any cozy family meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces button or cremini mushrooms, sliced
Dairy & Pantry
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups half & half
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1½ cups crispy fried onions
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole later.
- Blanch Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender. Immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking for 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown.
- Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir to coat evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Make Sauce: Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth and half & half, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add soy sauce, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens.
- Combine Ingredients: In a 9×13-inch casserole dish, add the blanched green beans, mushroom sauce, and ½ cup of the crispy fried onions. Mix everything together directly in the dish until the green beans are evenly coated and spread the mixture into an even layer.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the remaining crispy fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the onions on top are golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
- Blanching the green beans keeps them crisp and vibrant in color.
- Use fresh mushrooms for best flavor, but button or cremini mushrooms both work well.
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Make sure to cook the flour enough to avoid a raw taste in the sauce.
- Crispy fried onions add great texture; reserve some for the topping before mixing into the casserole.
