Dinner

Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions

Name: Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 2 tbsp butter or olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; ½ tsp dried thyme; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1 ½ cups crispy fried onions; Optional: ½ cup shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese

Servings: 6 Total Time: 45 mins Difficulty: Beginner

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Introduction

Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions is a classic comfort dish that has been a staple at family gatherings, especially during the holidays, for decades. It combines tender green beans in a creamy mushroom sauce, topped with irresistibly crispy fried onions. The result is a dish that is creamy, crunchy, savory, and comforting — everything you want in a side dish.

While this casserole is most famously enjoyed at Thanksgiving, it’s a versatile recipe that can be made any time of the year. Whether served as a side with roasted meats, poultry, or even as a vegetarian main course, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s both nostalgic and timeless. The creamy mushroom base pairs perfectly with the freshness of green beans, and the crispy onions on top add the perfect crunch. Every bite has layers of flavor and texture.

It’s also a dish that’s easy to prepare yet feels special. You can make it ahead of time, which makes it ideal for holiday meals when the oven is packed with other dishes. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be lightened up, made vegan, or customized with extra flavors like cheese, garlic, or bacon.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

A holiday classic that never goes out of style.
Combines creamy, crunchy, and fresh elements in one dish.
Great for meal prep and freezer-friendly.
A side dish that pairs with nearly any main course.
Loved by kids and adults alike.

Preparation & Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6–8 servings
Calories: ~220–250 per serving

Cuisine & Course

Cuisine: American
Course: Side Dish / Holiday Dish

Ingredients

For the Casserole

1 lb (450 g) fresh green beans, trimmed and halved (or use frozen, thawed)
2 tbsp butter or olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
8 oz (225 g) mushrooms, sliced
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 cup (240 ml) vegetable or chicken broth
1 cup (240 ml) milk or cream
½ tsp dried thyme (or 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Topping

1 ½ cups crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade)
Optional: ½ cup shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese

Simple Cooking Directions

Blanch green beans until crisp-tender.
Cook onion, garlic, and mushrooms in butter.
Add flour, broth, and milk to create a creamy sauce.
Combine beans and sauce, transfer to casserole dish.
Top with crispy onions (and cheese, if using).
Bake until golden and bubbly.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
Add green beans and cook for 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender.
Drain and place in ice water to stop cooking. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Base

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté for 2–3 minutes.
Stir in mushrooms and cook until tender and golden.
Sprinkle flour over the mixture and cook for 1–2 minutes.
Slowly whisk in broth and milk, stirring until thickened and creamy.
Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine green beans with the creamy mushroom sauce.
Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.

Step 4: Add Topping

Sprinkle crispy fried onions evenly on top.
If desired, add cheese beneath the onions for extra richness.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

How to Serve

Serve hot as a holiday side dish with turkey, ham, roast chicken, or beef.
It also pairs beautifully with vegetarian mains like stuffed squash or lentil loaf.
Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for color and freshness.

Additional Recipe Tips

Don’t overcook the green beans before baking — they should be slightly firm so they don’t turn mushy.
Use homemade crispy onions for a fresher, less salty topping.
For extra depth, add a splash of white wine when sautéing mushrooms.
To lighten it up, use low-fat milk and skip the cheese.

Variations

Vegan: Use plant-based milk and vegan butter; top with vegan fried onions.
Cheesy Twist: Add shredded cheddar or gruyere for a gooey layer.
With Bacon: Stir in cooked bacon pieces for smoky flavor.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and certified GF fried onions.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.

Freezing & Storage

Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Assemble casserole without onion topping, freeze for up to 2 months. Add topping before baking.
Reheating: Bake covered at 350°F (175°C) until heated through; uncover to crisp onions.

Special Equipment Needed

Large pot (for blanching beans)
Skillet (for mushroom sauce)
9×13-inch casserole dish
Whisk (to avoid lumps in sauce)

Conclusion

Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions is a beloved classic that perfectly balances creamy, crunchy, and savory flavors. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly versatile, and always a hit on the holiday table. Whether you make it the traditional way or give it a modern twist, this casserole is guaranteed to become a favorite side dish in your home.

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