Introduction
Get ready to spice up your dinner table with the Ultimate Green Bean Casserole! This classic dish is the perfect side for any meal, combining creamy textures with a delightful crunch that will leave your loved ones asking for seconds. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy evening at home, this recipe is sure to impress.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup French fried onions
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Preparation Time
- Prep Time 15 minutes
- Cook Time 25 minutes
- Total Time 40 minutes
- Yield 6 servings
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and get ready for some kitchen fun!
2. Bring a pot of water to a boil, toss in those green beans, and cook until just tender, about 5 minutes. Drain them and set aside.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the mushrooms and onions until they’re golden and aromatic.
4. Melt butter in a small saucepan. Stir in flour and cook for a minute. Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth until the sauce is smooth and thick. Season with salt and pepper.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the green beans, sautéed mushrooms and onions, and the creamy sauce. Mix well!
6. Transfer this delightful mixture into a baking dish. Top with crunchy French fried onions and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Let it cool for a few minutes, serve, and watch it disappear!
Nutritional Information
Per serving, this green bean goodness offers:
Calories: 250 kcal
Protein: 8g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 4g
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and get ready for some kitchen fun!
Step 2: Prepare the Green Beans
Bring a pot of water to a boil, toss in those green beans, and cook until just tender, about 5 minutes. Drain them and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the mushrooms and onions until they’re golden and aromatic.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Melt butter in a small saucepan. Stir in flour and cook for a minute. Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth until the sauce is smooth and thick. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the green beans, sautéed mushrooms and onions, and the creamy sauce. Mix well!
Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish
Transfer this delightful mixture into a baking dish. Top with crunchy French fried onions and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 8: Serve
Let it cool for a few minutes, serve, and watch it disappear!
Notes
Serving Suggestion
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a hearty vegetarian option.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Make-Ahead Option
You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and bake it just before serving. Adjust baking time if it’s taken directly from the fridge.
Customizations
Feel free to add your favorite spices or additional vegetables to the casserole for a personal touch.
Cook techniques
Blanching Green Beans
Blanch the green beans in boiling water for a brief period to retain their vibrant color and tender-crisp texture.
Sautéing
Sauté mushrooms and onions in olive oil until golden brown to enhance their flavors and create a flavorful base for the casserole.
Making a Roux
Combine butter and flour to create a roux, which serves as the thickening agent for the creamy sauce, ensuring a smooth and rich texture.
Whisking
Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth into the roux to prevent lumps and achieve a velvety sauce consistency.
Baking
Bake the casserole until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, allowing the flavors to meld together while adding a delicious crispy topping.
FAQ
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans. Just ensure they are thawed and drained before adding them to the casserole.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and leave out the cheddar cheese or use a dairy-free alternative for a vegetarian version.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What can I serve with green bean casserole?
Green bean casserole pairs well with roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or as part of a holiday spread.
Conclusion
The Ultimate Green Bean Casserole is not just a side dish; it’s a comforting and satisfying addition to your table. Perfectly creamy and crunchy, it’s sure to delight your family and friends alike!
