Name: Delicious Creamy Green Bean Casserole Recipe for Holidays
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium onion; 1/2 cup (62g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled); 3/4 cup (45g) panko breadcrumbs; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 large egg; 1 Tablespoon (15ml) milk; 1 Tablespoon + 1 teaspoon salt, divided; 1 pound fresh green beans, rinsed, ends trimmed, and halved; 2 Tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter; 8 ounces sliced mushrooms; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 Tablespoons (15g) all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup (180ml) chicken or vegetable broth; 1 and 1/4 cups (300ml) half-and-half

Creamy Green Bean Casserole is a delightful dish that has graced many holiday tables, and for good reason. This delicious creamy green bean casserole delight is a fantastic dish that’s sure to impress with its rich flavors and comforting textures. Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving or simply looking for a savory green bean casserole recipe to accompany your dinner, this recipe combines fresh green beans with a creamy sauce and a crispy topping that will make your taste buds dance. Let’s dive into this comforting classic!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Green Bean Casserole

This Creamy Green Bean Casserole is not just another vegetable dish; it’s a crowd-pleaser! Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore it:

Quick to prepare – can be ready in just 20 minutes.
Versatile – perfect as a Creamy Green Bean Side Dish or as a main attraction.
Rich and creamy flavor thanks to the half-and-half and mushrooms.
Customizable – add in extras like cheese or bacon for a Cheesy Green Bean Casserole.
Vegetarian-friendly – a delightful addition to any plant-based meal.
Perfect for holidays – a Thanksgiving Creamy Green Bean Casserole Recipe you’ll want to repeat every year.

Ingredients for Creamy Green Bean Casserole

Gather these items:

1 medium onion
1/2 cup (62g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
3/4 cup (45g) panko breadcrumbs
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 large egg
1 Tablespoon (15ml) milk
1 Tablespoon + 1 teaspoon salt, divided
1 pound fresh green beans, rinsed, ends trimmed, and halved
2 Tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter
8 ounces sliced mushrooms
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 Tablespoons (15g) all-purpose flour
3/4 cup (180ml) chicken or vegetable broth
1 and 1/4 cups (300ml) half-and-half

How to Make Creamy Green Bean Casserole Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Set aside.
Step 2: Thinly slice the onion and separate the slices. Pour the flour into a small bowl, combine the panko, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl, and whisk the egg and milk together in another small bowl. Using one hand for dry and one hand for wet, dip a few onion slices into the flour, then into the egg mixture, and finally coat them well in the panko. Place the coated slices onto the baking sheet. Repeat this process with the remaining onion slices. Bake until golden brown, approximately 20 minutes, flipping them twice during baking. Set aside when done.
Step 3: Reduce the oven temperature to 400°F (204°C).
Step 4: To blanch the green beans, bring a gallon of water and 1 Tablespoon of salt to a boil in a large saucepan. Add the green beans and boil for 5 minutes. Prepare a large bowl with ice water and set it near the sink. Drain the beans and immediately transfer them to the ice water to halt the cooking process. Drain again and set aside.
Step 5: In a large 10- to 12-inch ovenproof skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms, 1 teaspoon salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms begin to release moisture, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, stir, and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir until combined, allowing the flour to absorb the moisture. Pour in the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer for 3 minutes. Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the half-and-half, cooking until the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes or longer if a thicker sauce is desired.
Step 6: Remove the skillet from heat and mix in about a quarter of the baked onion topping and all of the blanched green beans, stirring to combine the sauce and beans. If not using an oven-safe skillet, transfer the mushroom and gravy mixture to a greased 2–3-quart casserole dish. Top with the remaining baked onions and bake until bubbling around the edges, about 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and serve warm.

Delicious Creamy Green Bean Casserole Recipe for Holidays - Creamy Green Bean Casserole - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Green Bean Casserole

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh green beans for the best texture and flavor.
Try adding grated cheese to the sauce for a Cheesy Green Bean Casserole.
For a crunchier topping, double the panko breadcrumbs.
Ensure the sauce is thick before mixing in the beans to avoid mushiness.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Green Bean Casserole

This dish pairs beautifully with:

Roasted turkey or chicken for a traditional holiday meal.
Mashed potatoes and gravy for a comforting plate.
A fresh salad to balance the richness of the casserole.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Green Bean Casserole

You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. This dish is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy during busy weeknights.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Green Bean Casserole

What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Green Bean Casserole?

The secret lies in balancing the creamy sauce with fresh ingredients. Always use fresh green beans and avoid overcooking them to maintain their vibrant color and crunch.

Can I make Creamy Green Bean Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it without baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh before serving for the best flavor.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Green Bean Casserole?

Avoid overcooking the green beans and ensure the sauce thickens before mixing. Also, don’t skip the crispy onion topping; it adds wonderful texture and flavor!

Variations of Creamy Green Bean Casserole You Can Try

Want to switch things up? Here are some tasty variations:

Add crispy bacon for a savory twist.
Incorporate cheese for a Cheesy Green Bean Casserole experience.
Use different types of beans, like yellow wax beans, for color variety.
Make it gluten-free by substituting the flour with a gluten-free blend.

For more delicious recipes, check out our holiday recipes and vegetarian options. You can also learn about cooking techniques to enhance your culinary skills!