Introduction
Get ready to dazzle your taste buds with this Creamy Green Bean Casserole, the ultimate comfort food perfect for any gathering! Packed with vibrant green beans, crispy onions, and a luscious homemade sauce, each bite is a dreamy delight.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup fried onions
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for about 5 minutes until they are tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
4. Sprinkle in the flour and cook, stirring, for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is golden brown.
5. Gradually whisk in the broth and milk, cooking until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Stir in the cooked green beans and half of the cheese, mixing well.
7. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, topping with the remaining cheese and fried onions.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
9. Let it cool slightly before serving and enjoy the homemade goodness!
Nutritional Information
Each serving is approximately: 200 calories, Carbohydrates: 12g, Protein: 6g, Fat: 14g
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Blanch the Green Beans
Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for about 5 minutes until they are tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
4. Make the Roux
Sprinkle in the flour and cook, stirring, for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is golden brown.
5. Create the Sauce
Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth and whole milk, cooking until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine Ingredients
Stir in the cooked green beans and half of the grated cheddar cheese, mixing well to combine.
7. Prepare for Baking
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, topping with the remaining cheese and fried onions.
8. Bake the Casserole
Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
9. Cool and Serve
Let the casserole cool slightly before serving and enjoy the homemade goodness!
Notes
Storage
This casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
To reheat, cover with foil and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Customization
Feel free to add your favorite ingredients such as mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or spices to enhance the flavor.
Cook techniques
Blanching green beans
Blanching involves boiling vegetables briefly and then plunging them into ice water to preserve their color and crispness. This technique ensures the green beans remain tender-crisp in your casserole.
Sautéing
Sautéing is a cooking method where food is cooked quickly in a small amount of fat over medium-high heat. In this recipe, onions and garlic are sautéed until the onion is translucent, adding flavor to the dish.
Making a roux
A roux is a mixture of flour and fat, cooked together to thicken sauces. In this casserole, a roux is created by cooking flour with butter before adding broth and milk, forming a creamy base for the dish.
Oven baking
Baking in the oven allows for even cooking and browning. In this recipe, the casserole is baked until bubbly and golden brown, enhancing its flavors and textures.
FAQ
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the casserole to avoid excess moisture.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to one day. Just increase the baking time if you bake it straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for the cheddar cheese?
You can substitute the cheddar cheese with other types such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a vegan cheese option if you prefer a dairy-free recipe.
How can I make this casserole healthier?
To make it healthier, consider using low-fat milk, reducing the amount of cheese, or adding more vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for added nutrition.
Conclusion
This Creamy Green Bean Casserole not only brings comfort to your table but also offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors. With the proper techniques, you can easily create a dish that will impress family and friends at any gathering. Enjoy!
