Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole With Step-by-Step Video

We’ve put a twist on the classic green bean casserole with our Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole With Step-by-Step Video. This recipe features a rich, homemade Parmesan cream sauce, savory caramelized crimini mushrooms, and fresh green beans, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to impress your guests with its delightful flavors and creamy texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Elevated Flavor: The homemade Parmesan cream sauce and caramelized mushrooms add depth that enhances the traditional taste.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, even novice cooks can master this dish.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for holidays or everyday meals, this casserole complements a variety of main courses.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its comforting flavors make it a favorite among family and friends, ensuring seconds will be requested!
• Rich Texture: The combination of cream and cheese creates a luscious mouthfeel that’s hard to resist.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best-ever green bean casserole, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Baking dish (2-qt)
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling the green beans quickly and efficiently without overcrowding.
• Large skillet: Perfect for caramelizing mushrooms evenly, bringing out their natural umami flavor.
• Baking dish: A sturdy dish ensures even cooking as you bake your casserole to perfection.

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Ingredients

We turned up the dial on green bean casserole with a homemade Parmesan cream sauce, savory caramelized mushrooms, and fresh green beans. French’s onions stay.

For the Casserole

• 2 lb. fresh green beans
• Kosher salt
• 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• 1 lb. crimini mushrooms, sliced, divided
• 6 Tbsp. unsalted butter, divided
• 4 large sprigs thyme, divided

For the Cream Sauce

• 2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
• 1¼ cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 garlic cloves, finely grated
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• Freshly ground black pepper

Topping

• ¾ cup French’s fried onions

How to Make Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole With Step-by-Step Video

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by placing the rack in the middle of your oven. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Green Beans

1. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook 2 lb. fresh green beans until bright green and halfway tender, about 3 minutes per batch.
2. Drain the beans and let them cool before trimming stem ends.

Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms

1. Heat 1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add ½ lb. sliced crimini mushrooms without stirring; cook until golden brown underneath (about 2 minutes).
3. Toss mushrooms and continue cooking until browned on both sides (about 3 more minutes).
4. Add 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter and 2 large thyme sprigs; cook until butter browns and mushrooms are dark brown (about 4 minutes). Season with kosher salt; transfer to a plate.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients for another batch of sautéed mushrooms.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

1. Melt remaining 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter in a large saucepan over medium-low heat.
2. Whisk in 2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour; cook until roux is golden brown (about 4 minutes).
3. Gradually whisk in 1¼ cups whole milk and 1 cup heavy cream; increase heat to bring to a simmer.
4. Cook until thickened and bubbling (about 5 minutes); remove from heat.
5. Stir in finely grated garlic cloves and grated Parmesan; season with salt and freshly ground pepper.

Step 5: Assemble & Bake

1. In a 2-qt baking dish, arrange cooked green beans and sautéed mushrooms.
2. Pour sauce over the mixture; cover tightly with foil.
3. Bake until bubbling (25–30 minutes), then uncover and bake until lightly browned on top (15–20 minutes).
4. Top with French’s fried onions; bake just until onions are fragrant (about 3 minutes).
5. Allow to sit for about 10 minutes before serving.

With these detailed instructions, you can create an unforgettable Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole that will be the star of your next gathering!

How to Serve Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole With Step-by-Step Video

This delightful green bean casserole is perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual dinner. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Roasted Turkey

• A classic pairing for holiday meals, roasted turkey complements the creamy texture of the casserole while adding a savory touch.

Serve with Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes provide a rich contrast to the crispy fried onions and fresh green beans, making every bite satisfying.

Accompany with Cranberry Sauce

• The tartness of cranberry sauce balances the richness of the casserole, adding a refreshing burst of flavor that enhances each dish.

Enjoy with Garlic Bread

• Crispy garlic bread offers a crunchy texture that pairs well with the soft green beans and creamy sauce, perfect for soaking up flavors.

Add a Salad on the Side

• A fresh green salad with tangy vinaigrette can lighten up your meal, providing a nice contrast to the hearty casserole.

Top with Grated Cheese

• For cheese lovers, sprinkling some grated cheese over each serving can add an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.

How to Perfect Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole With Step-by-Step Video

Perfecting your green bean casserole can elevate it to new heights. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is a hit every time.

• Choose Fresh Beans: Using fresh green beans instead of canned will enhance the flavor and texture of your casserole.
• Don’t Skip the Mushrooms: Caramelizing crimini mushrooms adds depth and richness; they are essential for that gourmet touch.
• Make Your Sauce Creamy: Whisk thoroughly when making your Parmesan cream sauce to avoid lumps and ensure smoothness.
• Bake Covered First: Covering the dish while baking helps retain moisture and ensures even cooking before browning.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for 10 minutes after baking helps it set, making serving easier.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add spices or herbs like nutmeg or rosemary for an extra flavor twist.

Best Side Dishes for Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole With Step-by-Step Video

To create a well-rounded meal, consider these delicious side dishes that pair wonderfully with your green bean casserole.

1. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances out savory flavors and adds vibrant color to your plate.
2. Creamed Spinach: This rich side brings another layer of creaminess while introducing nutritious greens into your meal.
3. Herbed Quinoa: Light and fluffy quinoa tossed with fresh herbs provides a healthy option that complements heavier dishes nicely.
4. Cornbread Muffins: Slightly sweet cornbread muffins add texture and are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your casserole.
5. Balsamic Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled in balsamic glaze offer a flavorful contrast that brightens up your table.
6. Stuffing: A savory stuffing made with herbs and vegetables adds heartiness that pairs perfectly alongside your green bean casserole.
7. Vegetable Medley: A mix of seasonal vegetables steamed or roasted adds freshness and color to round out your meal.
8. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned simply provide an easy-to-prepare side that everyone loves.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole With Step-by-Step Video, it’s common to make a few mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid those pitfalls.

• Overcooking the Green Beans: Cooking the green beans for too long in boiling water can lead to mushy beans. Aim for just 3 minutes until they’re bright green and tender-crisp.

• Skipping the Roux: A roux is essential for a creamy sauce. Skipping this step can result in a watery casserole. Make sure to cook your flour with butter until golden brown before adding liquids.

• Using Cold Dairy: If you add cold milk or cream to the roux, it may not blend well. Always use room temperature ingredients for a smoother sauce.

• Not Seasoning Enough: Failing to season each component can lead to bland flavors. Remember to season both the green beans and mushrooms generously with salt and pepper.

• Rushing the Baking Process: Covering and baking too quickly can prevent proper bubbling of the sauce. Ensure you bake until it’s bubbling before uncovering for browning.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
• Allow the casserole to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole With Step-by-Step Video

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil or place in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole With Step-by-Step Video

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and bake covered for about 20 minutes, then uncover for another 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot throughout; this usually takes about 5-7 minutes depending on your microwave wattage.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through; add a splash of milk if it seems dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making the Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole With Step-by-Step Video.

Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?

Yes! Frozen green beans are convenient. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before using them in your casserole.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute dairy with plant-based milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.

What type of mushrooms work best?

Crimini mushrooms provide great flavor, but you could also use button or shiitake mushrooms as alternatives.

How do I customize my green bean casserole?

Feel free to add other vegetables like corn or bell peppers, or enhance flavors with spices such as paprika or cayenne for heat.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it a day ahead and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.

Final Thoughts

The Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole With Step-by-Step Video is not just a side dish; it’s a crowd-pleaser that elevates any meal. Its creamy texture and savory flavor profile make it perfect for holidays or family gatherings. Plus, it’s customizable, allowing you to add your favorite ingredients or spices. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try!