Introduction
Green Bean Casserole has long held a special place on holiday tables, often seen as the classic creamy comfort food. However, this beloved dish is getting a fabulous makeover that’s sure to impress your guests! With fresh ingredients and a crunchy topping, this Green Bean Casserole is not only dreamy in flavor but also a feast for the eyes. Say goodbye to the ordinary and get ready to elevate your holiday feast with this delightful twist on a classic!
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 cups sliced cremini mushrooms
- 1 cup sliced onions
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 cups crispy fried onions
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) because this casserole deserves a cozy, warm space to bake its magic.
2. Boil green beans in a large pot of salted water for about 4-5 minutes until they’re tender yet still crisp. Drain and set aside, allowing them to cool.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Toss in the onions and mushrooms, sautéing until golden and fragrant.
4. Sprinkle the flour over your veggie mix and stir it up like your favorite song just came on. Gradually add in the half-and-half and broth. Let it all simmer until the sauce thickens into creamy perfection. Season with salt and pepper.
5. In a greased baking dish, mix the boiled green beans with your fabulously creamy sauce.
6. Time for the reveal: top with crispy fried onions, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs.
7. Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and irresistibly crunchy.
8. Dig in and enjoy this beloved dish with every crunchy, creamy bite!
Nutritional Information
Serving up a portion of yum delivers Calories: 280 Protein: 8g Fat: 18g Carbohydrates: 20g Fiber: 4g Vitamin C: 15% DV Iron: 10% DV
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) because this casserole deserves a cozy, warm space to bake its magic.
Step 2: Boil the Green Beans
Boil green beans in a large pot of salted water for about 4-5 minutes until they’re tender yet still crisp. Drain and set aside, allowing them to cool.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Toss in the onions and mushrooms, sautéing until golden and fragrant.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over your veggie mix and stir it up like your favorite song just came on. Gradually add in the half-and-half and broth. Let it all simmer until the sauce thickens into creamy perfection. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Combine Green Beans and Sauce
In a greased baking dish, mix the boiled green beans with your fabulously creamy sauce.
Step 6: Add the Topping
Time for the reveal: top with crispy fried onions, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs.
Step 7: Bake the Casserole
Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and irresistibly crunchy.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Dig in and enjoy this beloved dish with every crunchy, creamy bite!
Notes
Green Bean Preparation
Make sure to trim the green beans well to ensure they cook evenly and are tender.
Mushroom Options
Cremini mushrooms can be substituted with button mushrooms or any other preferred variety.
Adjusting Creaminess
For a richer sauce, you can increase the half-and-half to 2 1/2 cups.
Texture Improvement
For extra crunch, consider toasting the breadcrumbs before adding them to the topping.
Storage Suggestion
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crunchiness.
Cook techniques
Blanching Green Beans
Blanching is the process of boiling green beans in salted water for a short time to retain their vibrant color and crispness. This technique helps to enhance the flavor and texture of the beans before they’re added to the casserole.
Sautéing Vegetables
Sautéing involves cooking the onions and mushrooms in butter over medium heat until they’re golden and fragrant. This technique releases moisture, intensifies flavors, and adds a delightful aroma to the dish.
Making a Roux
Creating a roux by sprinkling flour over the sautéed vegetables allows for thickening the sauce. This step is crucial to achieving the creamy texture that binds the casserole together.
Simmering the Sauce
Simmering after adding half-and-half and chicken broth thickens the sauce to creamy perfection. Maintain a gentle simmer to avoid burning while allowing flavors to meld.
Baking the Casserole
Baking at 375°F for 25-30 minutes gives the casserole a golden, crunchy topping and warms the dish through. This final step brings out the flavors, making it irresistibly comforting.
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.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make the casserole vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and ensure the fried onions and other ingredients are free of animal products.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead. Assemble and store it in the refrigerator, then bake it just before serving.
What can I use instead of half-and-half?
You can substitute half-and-half with a mixture of equal parts whole milk and heavy cream or use plant-based milk alternatives for a dairy-free option.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
