# Green Bean Casserole: A Timeless Recipe Made from Scratch
Green bean casserole is a cherished dish that has adorned numerous holiday tables, especially during Thanksgiving and Christmas. While the conventional recipe frequently depends on processed ingredients, preparing it from scratch enhances this timeless favorite. This homemade variation is richer in flavor, healthier, and unexpectedly simple to make, requiring only around 10 minutes of active cooking time. Bid farewell to canned soups and crispy onions; this recipe focuses on fresh ingredients and deep flavors.
## Why Prepare Green Bean Casserole from Scratch?
Creating green bean casserole from scratch not only improves its flavor but also enables you to manage the ingredients, making it a healthier choice. This rendition is loaded with mushrooms and fresh green beans, offering a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Moreover, it fulfills that nostalgic desire without the downside of processed foods.
## Ingredients Required
To whip up this tasty green bean casserole, collect the following ingredients:
### For the Mushroom Sauce:
– 4 tbsp butter (or olive oil)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 medium onion, chopped
– 1 lb mushrooms (ideally pre-sliced cremini)
– 4-8 sprigs thyme (or other herbs)
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 3/4 cup white wine (or broth)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 0.5-1 cup milk (optional, for a creamier consistency)
– 1 tbsp dark mushroom soy sauce (or standard soy sauce)
– 1 tsp fish sauce (optional)
– 1/2 cup crispy fried onions
### For the Casserole:
– 1.5 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1/2 cup Parmigiano Reggiano cheese (or Cheddar)
– Extra crispy fried onions for garnish
## Step-by-Step Directions
### 1. Prepare the Mushroom Sauce
– In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Sauté the chopped onions for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
– Incorporate the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
– Add the mushrooms and thyme, cooking until the mushrooms achieve a golden brown color (about 7 minutes).
– Sprinkle in the flour, salt, and pepper, stirring for about 2 minutes until thoroughly mixed.
– Pour in the white wine and allow it to reduce by half (about 3 minutes). Lower the heat and add the cream, soy sauce, fish sauce, and optional milk. Stir and simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened.
### 2. Blanch the Green Beans
– While the sauce simmers, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the trimmed green beans for 3 minutes, then drain and plunge them into an ice bath to preserve their vibrant color and crunch.
### 3. Assemble the Casserole
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
– In a large oven-safe dish, layer the blanched green beans. Drizzle the mushroom sauce over them and sprinkle with Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.
– Bake for 30 minutes until it is bubbling and golden.
### 4. Add the Topping
– Take the casserole out of the oven, gently mix the green beans, and top with more crispy fried onions. Return to the oven for another 5 minutes until the onions become crispy.
### 5. Serve and Enjoy
– After baking, allow it to cool slightly before serving. This casserole makes for an ideal side dish that pairs beautifully with turkey, mashed potatoes, or any festive meal.
## Tips for Success
– **Make Ahead**: You can prepare the casserole a day early. Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, add an additional 10-20 minutes to the cooking time.
– **Customize**: Feel free to incorporate other ingredients like bacon, various cheeses, or herbs to make the casserole your own.
– **Storage**: Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
## Conclusion
This homemade green bean casserole offers a delightful twist on a classic recipe, providing a fresh and tasty experience that will wow your guests. With its rich mushroom sauce and crunchy onion topping, it is sure to become a favorite at your holiday festivities. So, roll up your sleeves and revel in the joy of crafting this comforting dish from scratch!