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A close-up shot of a creamy and golden-brown Green Bean Casserole, showcasing its crispy fried onion topping.

BEST Green Bean Casserole EVER

This recipe elevates the classic Green Bean Casserole from a holiday obligation to a dish everyone raves about. It uses fresh ingredients and a homemade creamy sauce for a savory, creamy, crunchy, and comforting experience. This recipe uses tips and tricks to ensure a spectacular casserole.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and snapped, or 2 14.5-ounce) cans cut green beans, drained, or 2 (10-ounce
  • 4 tablespoons butter, divided
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • Water for blanching

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk
  • Ice bath
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. If using fresh green beans, blanch them in boiling salted water for 5 minutes, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking. Drain well. If using canned or frozen green beans, make sure they are thoroughly drained.
  3. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 8-10 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
  4. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in the skillet. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, creating a roux. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer, then stir in the heavy cream, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
  5. Add the prepared green beans to the creamy sauce and stir to coat. Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish.
  6. Sprinkle half of the crispy fried onions evenly over the top.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the onions are golden brown.
  8. Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining crispy fried onions over the top. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For best flavor and texture, use fresh green beans. Make sure all green beans are thoroughly drained to avoid a soggy casserole. To prevent onions from burning, tent the baking dish with foil if they brown too quickly. Casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator, adding the crispy fried onions just before baking. Add shredded cheddar cheese, Gruyere, or Parmesan cheese to the top of the casserole before baking for a cheesy variation. Add bacon for extra flavor.