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Crispy Classic Green Bean Casserole Recipe Perfect for Easy Cozy Family Meals

crispy classic green bean casserole - featured image

A nostalgic and comforting green bean casserole featuring crisp-tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and a golden crispy fried onion topping. Perfect for family meals, potlucks, and holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1Β½ pounds (700 grams) fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 4 tablespoons (56 grams) unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons (24 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) cremini or button mushrooms, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (240 ml) chicken or vegetable broth, preferably low sodium
  • 1 cup (240 ml) milk, whole or 2%
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1Β½ cups (about 90 grams) frozen fried onions, store-bought or homemade
  • A pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes until bright green and just tender-crisp. Drain and immediately plunge into an ice bath to stop cooking and keep them crisp (about 5 minutes). Drain well and set aside.
  2. While the beans blanch, melt 2 tablespoons butter in a skillet over medium heat. Toss the thinly sliced onions with 2 tablespoons flour, coating evenly. Add onions to the pan and fry, stirring often, until golden brown and crisp, about 8-10 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  3. In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add chopped mushrooms and sautΓ© until they release moisture and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in 3 tablespoons flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw taste.
  4. Gradually whisk in the broth and milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in soy or Worcestershire sauce, pinch of nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Fold the blanched green beans into the mushroom sauce, ensuring all beans are well-coated.
  6. Pour the green bean mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the crispy fried onions evenly over the top.
  7. Preheat oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and the topping is golden.
  8. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

Do not overcook green beans to keep them crisp-tender. Fry onions slowly over medium heat to avoid burning. Use fresh mushrooms for best flavor and texture. Whisk liquids gradually to prevent lumps in the sauce. Let casserole rest before serving. For extra crunch, reserve some fried onions to sprinkle on top before serving. Can be made ahead and refrigerated or frozen before baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: green bean casserole, crispy green bean casserole, classic green bean casserole, holiday side dish, comfort food, mushroom sauce, fried onions