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Cozy Green Bean Casserole Recipe with Crispy Onions

green bean casserole with crispy onions - featured image

A comforting green bean casserole featuring tender green beans in a creamy mushroom sauce topped with crispy onions, perfect for holidays and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk, room temperature
  • 8 ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced (cremini recommended)
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1.5 cups crispy fried onions (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the trimmed green beans and blanch for 3-4 minutes until bright green and just tender. Immediately drain into a colander and plunge into ice water to stop cooking. Drain again and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3 minutes until softened. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 5-6 minutes until they release their juices and start to brown.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
  4. Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure no lumps form. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Remove the sauce from heat and fold in the blanched green beans and half of the crispy fried onions. Mix gently but thoroughly.
  6. Pour the mixture into a prepared 9×13 inch casserole dish, spreading evenly. Sprinkle the remaining crispy onions and Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbling and the topping is golden brown.
  8. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not skip blanching the green beans to preserve color and texture. Use fresh mushrooms for best flavor. Homemade crispy onions provide maximum crunch but store-bought works well. Stir constantly when adding flour to avoid lumps. Simmer sauce gently to prevent curdling. Add Worcestershire sauce for umami depth. Assemble casserole ahead and add crispy onions just before baking for best texture. For vegan version, use dairy-free butter and milk and vegan crispy onions. For gluten-free, substitute flour with gluten-free blend or cornstarch.

Nutrition

Keywords: green bean casserole, crispy onions, holiday side dish, mushroom sauce, comfort food, easy casserole, Thanksgiving side