Old-School Green Bean Casserole (Print Version)

Tender green beans in a savory creamy sauce topped with crispy fried onions, perfect for family dinners.

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces (or 2 lb frozen cut green beans, thawed and drained)

→ Sauce Base

02 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
03 - 9 oz cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
04 - 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
05 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
06 - 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
07 - 1 cup whole milk
08 - ½ cup heavy cream
09 - ½ cup low-sodium vegetable broth
10 - 1 tsp salt
11 - ½ tsp black pepper
12 - ½ tsp ground nutmeg (optional)

→ Topping

13 - 1½ cups crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade)

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F.
02 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add green beans and cook for 5 minutes until just tender yet bright green. Drain and immediately rinse under cold water to halt cooking. Set aside.
03 - In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add mushrooms and cook for 5-6 minutes until tender and browned. Add onion and garlic, cooking an additional 2-3 minutes until softened.
04 - Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in milk, heavy cream, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if desired.
05 - Add the drained green beans to the skillet and toss to evenly coat in the sauce.
06 - Transfer mixture to a 2-quart baking dish. Sprinkle half of the crispy fried onions evenly on top.
07 - Bake uncovered for 25 minutes until the casserole is bubbling.
08 - Remove from oven, top with remaining onions, then bake for an additional 5 to 7 minutes until golden and crisp.
09 - Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

# Top Tips:

01 -
  • Creamy nostalgic flavor
  • Crispy onion topping offers satisfying texture
02 -
  • To make ahead assemble up to topping and refrigerate then finish baking before serving.
  • Store in airtight container for up to 3 days leftovers are delicious reheated.
03 -
  • Add grated cheddar or Gruyère cheese into sauce for richer taste.
  • Use fresh mushrooms for best flavor avoid canned if possible.
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