Green Bean Casserole Recipe from Scratch!

Favorite Green Bean Casserole Recipe from Scratch! This classic Thanksgiving side dish is made without canned soup, ensuring every bite is bursting with fresh flavors. Perfect for family gatherings or holiday feasts, this dish showcases green beans in a creamy, cheesy sauce topped with crispy shallots.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Ingredients: This recipe uses fresh green beans and homemade components, elevating the traditional casserole experience.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of Gruyere cheese and dried mushrooms creates a rich, umami flavor that will delight your taste buds.
• Easy to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious side dish without stress.
• Versatile Dish: Suitable for various occasions, from Thanksgiving to casual dinners, it pairs well with many main courses.
• Crispy Topping: Homemade fried shallots add a delightful crunch, making each bite memorable.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this Green Bean Casserole Recipe from Scratch effectively, having the right tools on hand will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Baking dish
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Frying pan: Essential for frying shallots to achieve that perfect crispy texture.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining ingredients and ensuring an even distribution of flavors.
• Baking dish: A sturdy dish is necessary to hold all the ingredients while they bake to perfection.

Ingredients

For the Crispy Shallots

• 3 large shallots, peeled and very thinly sliced into rings
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Casserole

• 1 1/2 lbs green beans, trimmed
• 2 cups half and half, or cream
• 1/2 ounce dried mushrooms (I used Shitake)
• 3 Tbsp butter
• 3 Tbsp flour
• 1/3 cup dry apple juice (not cooking apple juice)
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese, divided (I measure out a heaped cup)
• Salt and fresh cracked black pepper to taste
• Dash of fresh grated nutmeg, or more to taste

How to Make Green Bean Casserole Recipe from Scratch!

Step 1: Prepare the Shallots

1. Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
2. Mix flour and salt in a bowl.
3. Toss the shallot rings in the flour mixture until evenly coated.
4. Fry the shallots until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 2: Cook the Green Beans

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add trimmed green beans and cook for about 5 minutes until tender-crisp.
3. Drain the beans and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in flour to create a roux; cook for about 2 minutes until lightly golden.
3. Gradually whisk in half and half (or cream), stirring constantly until thickened.
4. Add dried mushrooms, apple juice, salt, pepper, and nutmeg; mix well.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked green beans with sauce and half of the Gruyere cheese.
3. Transfer to a baking dish; top with remaining cheese and fried shallots.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake in preheated oven for about 30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
2. Allow cooling slightly before serving warm.

Enjoy your homemade Green Bean Casserole Recipe from Scratch as an unforgettable side dish at your next gathering!

How to Serve Green Bean Casserole Recipe from Scratch!

Serving your Green Bean Casserole is just as important as preparing it. This dish can be the star of any meal, especially during festive occasions. Here are some suggestions on how to serve this delicious casserole.

Family Style

• Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish at the dinner table for a cozy, family-style meal.

Individual Portions

• Use small ramekins or individual baking dishes to create personal servings. This adds a nice touch and makes plating easier.

Topped with Crispy Shallots

• Garnish your casserole with extra crispy shallots on top before serving for added crunch and flavor.

Accompanied by Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh parsley or thyme over the top for a pop of color and freshness that enhances the flavors.

How to Perfect Green Bean Casserole Recipe from Scratch!

Perfecting your Green Bean Casserole takes just a few extra steps. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.

• Use fresh green beans: Fresh beans provide better texture and flavor compared to frozen ones. Trim them right before cooking for best results.

• Customize your cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella to find your preferred flavor combination.

• Make it ahead: Prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and nutmeg levels according to your preference before baking for a well-seasoned dish.

Best Side Dishes for Green Bean Casserole Recipe from Scratch!

Pairing side dishes with your Green Bean Casserole can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with roasted garlic add wonderful comfort.

2. Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: These sprouts offer a tangy contrast with their sweet balsamic glaze, providing balance to your meal.

3. Herb-Crusted Turkey Breast: A flavorful turkey breast seasoned with herbs complements the green bean casserole perfectly.

4. Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet glazed carrots brighten up the plate and add a delightful sweetness alongside savory flavors.

5. Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce can add a refreshing kick that contrasts nicely with the richness of the casserole.

6. Stuffing or Dressing: A classic stuffing made with vegetables and herbs rounds out the meal, adding depth and heartiness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Green Bean Casserole from Scratch, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some to watch out for:

• Choosing the wrong beans: Always use fresh green beans for the best flavor and texture. Canned or frozen beans can lead to a mushy casserole.

• Not seasoning adequately: Failing to season your dish properly can result in bland flavors. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

• Overcooking the shallots: Cooking shallots too long may cause them to burn. Fry until golden brown and crispy for a perfect texture.

• Skipping the gelling agent: Using no gelling agent can result in a runny casserole. Incorporate plant-based options like agar-agar or pectin for thickness.

• Using low-quality cheese: Opt for good-quality Gruyere cheese. This adds richness and depth of flavor that enhances the entire dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover casserole in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure it has cooled completely before sealing.

Freezing Green Bean Casserole Recipe from Scratch!

• You can freeze this casserole for up to 2 months.
• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
• Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Green Bean Casserole Recipe from Scratch!

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 5-7 minutes.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Green Bean Casserole Recipe from Scratch!

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. Bake when ready to serve.

What can I use instead of Gruyere cheese?

You may substitute with other cheeses like Swiss or cheddar if Gruyere isn’t available. Each will give a different, yet delicious flavor.

How do I ensure my green beans stay crisp?

Blanching the green beans quickly before adding them to your casserole helps maintain their crispiness throughout cooking.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The Green Bean Casserole Recipe from Scratch is perfect for meal prep and can be stored easily in portions.

Final Thoughts

This Green Bean Casserole Recipe from Scratch is not only a delightful Thanksgiving side dish but also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding different vegetables or spices according to your taste. Give it a try, and enjoy the rich flavors that come from making it fresh!