Homemade Green Bean Casserole

When it comes to classic Thanksgiving recipes, few side dishes are as beloved as a rich, creamy green bean casserole. This homemade version ditches the canned soup in favor of fresh ingredients and bold flavor—perfect for elevating your holiday table.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Unlike the traditional version made with canned cream of mushroom soup, this homemade green bean casserole features a velvety, from-scratch mushroom sauce, crisp-tender green beans, and golden fried onions. The result? A comforting, hearty side dish that tastes gourmet without being overly complicated.

This recipe not only highlights seasonal ingredients but also allows you to prepare it ahead of time—saving you stress on the big day.

Ingredients for Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this classic dish from scratch:

For the Green Beans:

• 1½ pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and halved

• 1 tablespoon salt (for blanching water)

For the Mushroom Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 12 ounces cremini or white mushrooms, sliced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1 cup whole milk

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth

• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra richness)

the Topping:

• 1½ cups crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade)

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crunch)

• 1 tablespoon melted butter (if using breadcrumbs)

Required Kitchen Tools

To ensure smooth preparation, gather the following kitchen tools:

• Large pot (for blanching green beans)

• Large skillet or sauté pan

• Whisk

• Wooden spoon or spatula

• Mixing bowls

• 9×13-inch baking dish or similar casserole dish

• Strainer or colander

• Oven

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Blanch the Green Beans

Blanching helps preserve the vibrant color and crisp-tender texture of the green beans.

1. Fill a large pot with water, add 1 tablespoon of salt, and bring to a boil.

2. Add the trimmed green beans and cook for 4–5 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.

3. Drain and immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.

4. Once cooled, drain again and set aside.

2. Prepare the Mushroom Cream Sauce

This is the heart of your casserole—deep, savory, and rich in flavor.

1. In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.

2. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown (about 6–8 minutes).

3. Stir in the chopped onion and cook until translucent (about 4 minutes).

4. Add the garlic, salt, and pepper, cooking for another 1–2 minutes.

5. Sprinkle flour evenly over the vegetables and stir constantly for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.

6. Slowly whisk in the milk, cream, and broth, ensuring no lumps form.

7. Simmer the sauce for 5–6 minutes until thickened. Add nutmeg and Parmesan if using, and taste for seasoning.

3. Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the green beans with the mushroom sauce until well coated.

3. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

4. If using breadcrumbs, mix them with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top.

5. Cover with foil and bake for 15–20 minutes.

4. Add the Crispy Topping and Finish Baking

1. Remove foil and sprinkle crispy fried onions evenly over the top.

2. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the green bean mixture (without the toppings) up to 2 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and top with crispy onions right before baking.

Freezing: While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the unbaked casserole (minus the fried onions). Let it thaw overnight in the fridge, add the onions, and bake as directed.

Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

Helpful Tips for a Perfect Green Bean Casserole

Use Fresh Green Beans: Avoid canned beans, which tend to get mushy. Fresh beans offer a better bite and appearance.

Customize the Sauce: Add a splash of white wine or a pinch of thyme for added depth.

Go Homemade with Fried Onions: If time permits, thinly slice shallots, dredge in flour, and fry them for a gourmet touch.

Balance the Salt: The fried onions can be salty, so adjust seasoning in the sauce carefully.

Make it Gluten-Free: Use cornstarch in place of flour and gluten-free crispy onions or fried shallots.

Nutritional Value (Per Serving, Approximate)

Note: Values may vary depending on specific ingredients used.

Why This Dish Belongs in Your Thanksgiving Recipes

Homemade green bean casserole is more than a side dish—it’s a tradition. It offers nostalgic familiarity while showcasing your care and attention to detail. By swapping out shortcuts for homemade ingredients, you give your guests a rich, comforting, and elevated version of a classic favorite.

Among all the Thanksgiving recipes—from turkey to stuffing—this casserole often disappears first. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats, gravy, and cranberry sauce, offering creamy contrast and satisfying crunch.

Final Thoughts: Bring Tradition to Life with Homemade Flavor

If you’re planning your holiday menu and searching for comforting yet impressive Thanksgiving recipes, this homemade green bean casserole is a must-have. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time, packs a punch of flavor, and pleases even the pickiest eaters.