Introduction
Get ready to wow your taste buds with this Scrumptiously Savory Homemade Green Bean Casserole! Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or just because you deserve a delicious treat. Dive into the creamy, crunchy goodness with every bite.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Crispy Topper:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Casserole:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup half and half
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 1/2 pounds green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
Dive into the Recipe
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a medium-sized baking dish. Let’s get this party started!
2. In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and salt. This topping is going to make your casserole the star of the show!
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it turns golden and fragrant. Toss in the garlic and sliced mushrooms, letting them dance together for a few minutes.
4. Sprinkle flour over the veggies and stir well. Gradually add chicken broth, stirring constantly to keep things smooth and silky.
5. Pour in the half and half, soy sauce, black pepper, and nutmeg. Allow this creamy concoction to thicken, stirring frequently.
6. Meanwhile, boil the green beans in a pot of salted water for about 4 minutes, until they’re just tender. Drain them and toss them into the skillet with the creamy mushroom mixture.
7. Transfer everything into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the crunchy panko topping all over.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and the topping is fabulously golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before digging in!
Now gather your friends and family and savor the joy of a classic dish made with love!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a medium-sized baking dish.
Step 2: Make the Crispy Topper
In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and salt. Mix well to ensure the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it turns golden and fragrant. Toss in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking for a few more minutes.
Step 4: Incorporate the Flour
Sprinkle flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well to combine. Gradually add the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring constantly to keep the mixture smooth.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Mixture
Pour in the half and half, soy sauce, black pepper, and ground nutmeg. Stir frequently and allow the mixture to thicken.
Step 6: Prepare the Green Beans
In a separate pot, boil the trimmed green beans in salted water for about 4 minutes until just tender. Drain the green beans and add them to the skillet with the creamy mushroom mixture, stirring to combine.
Step 7: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Evenly sprinkle the crunchy panko topping over the casserole.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy your casserole as a side dish or a main course, perfect for any gathering.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Make Ahead
You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if coming from cold.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a cooking technique that uses a small amount of oil to cook food quickly over medium to high heat. In this recipe, you’ll sauté the onions, garlic, and mushrooms to enhance their flavors and create a fragrant base for the casserole.
Thickening
Thickening is achieved by combining flour with the sautéed vegetables and gradually adding broth and half and half. This method ensures a smooth and creamy sauce that binds the casserole together.
Blanching
Blanching involves briefly boiling the green beans in salted water to achieve a tender-crisp texture. This technique enhances the beans’ vibrant color while preventing overcooking before they are added to the casserole.
Baking
Baking allows the casserole to cook evenly while helping the top to become golden and crispy. The oven’s heat transforms the dish, resulting in a bubbly, delicious meal.
FAQ
Can I use fresh green beans instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh green beans are ideal for this recipe. Just make sure to trim and cut them into 1-inch pieces before blanching.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add the panko topping just before baking for the best texture.
What can I substitute for half and half?
You can use a mixture of equal parts whole milk and heavy cream to achieve a similar creamy texture.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensure your panko breadcrumbs are vegetarian.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
Gather your friends and family to enjoy the classic comfort of this homemade green bean casserole, made with love and care!
