Save A nostalgic, creamy side dish featuring tender green beans, savory mushrooms, and crispy fried onions—a classic for holiday feasts and family dinners.
This casserole is always requested by my family, and the aroma while it bakes brings back cherished childhood memories around the dinner table.
Ingredients
- Fresh green beans: 900 g (2 lb), trimmed and cut into 5 cm (2-inch) pieces (or substitute with 900 g frozen cut green beans, thawed and drained)
- Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp
- Cremini or button mushrooms: 250 g (9 oz), sliced
- Yellow onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- Garlic cloves: 2, minced
- All-purpose flour: 2 tbsp
- Whole milk: 240 ml (1 cup)
- Heavy cream: 120 ml (½ cup)
- Low-sodium vegetable broth: 120 ml (½ cup)
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: ½ tsp
- Ground nutmeg (optional): ½ tsp
- Crispy fried onions: 150 g (1½ cups), store-bought or homemade
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Instructions
- Prep Oven and Beans:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add green beans and cook for 5 minutes until just tender but still bright green. Drain and immediately rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add mushrooms and cook for 5 6 minutes until tender and browned. Add onion and garlic, cooking for another 2 3 minutes until softened.
- Make the Sauce:
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in milk, cream, and broth. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
- Combine and Bake:
- Add the drained green beans to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce. Transfer the mixture to a 2 liter (2 quart) baking dish. Sprinkle half of the crispy fried onions on top.
- Bake and Finish:
- Bake for 25 minutes until bubbling. Remove from oven, top with remaining onions, and bake for 5 7 minutes more until golden and crisp. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Save 
Save Making this casserole inspires lively conversation at our holiday table, with everyone anticipating that first, warm scoop of creamy green beans and crispy onions.
Serving Suggestions
This classic side pairs beautifully with roasted turkey or chicken, and balances rich holiday mains with its fresh flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
You can assemble the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate for a day. Simply add the fried onions and bake when ready to serve.
Nutritional Information
Each serving offers about 265 calories, 15 g total fat, 25 g carbohydrates, and 6 g protein.
Save 
Save Enjoy this old-school casserole fresh from the oven for maximum crispiness and flavor. The leftovers also reheat beautifully for a comforting treat the next day.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can frozen green beans be used instead of fresh?
Yes, thawed and drained frozen green beans work well and offer convenience without sacrificing flavor.
- → How do I achieve a crispy topping?
Adding fried onions halfway through baking and again near the end creates a golden, crunchy topping.
- → Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, assemble up to the baking step and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then add topping and bake just before serving.
- → What alternatives are there to vegetable broth?
Low-sodium chicken broth or water can substitute, but vegetable broth enhances savory depth.
- → Is there a way to add extra richness?
Incorporating grated sharp cheddar or Gruyère into the sauce adds creaminess and bold flavor.
