Recipe for Green Bean Casserole with Fresh Green Beans

Recipe for Green Bean Casserole with Fresh Green Beans

If you are searching green bean casserole with fresh green beans recipe. You have come to the right place. Here is the best recipe for green bean casserole with fresh green beans.

Green bean casserole is a beloved side dish that often graces holiday tables, from Thanksgiving to Christmas. While many recipes rely on canned beans and soup, using fresh green beans can elevate this classic to a whole new level. The fresh ingredients provide a vibrant flavor and crisp texture, making this dish stand out at any gathering. This detailed recipe shows you how to make a delicious green bean casserole with fresh green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and a crispy topping.

Green Bean Casserole with Fresh Green Beans Recipe : A Fresh Take on a Classic Dish

Learn how to make a delicious green bean casserole with fresh green beans and creamy mushroom sauce, topped with crispy onions. Perfect for holidays or family dinners!

Why Use Fresh Green Beans?

Using fresh green beans instead of canned or frozen ones gives the casserole a bright, natural flavor and a pleasing texture. Fresh green beans stay crisp and vibrant, while still absorbing all the savory flavors from the creamy mushroom sauce. Plus, they pack more nutrients and are lower in sodium compared to canned options.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this green bean casserole from scratch with fresh green beans, gather the following ingredients:

For the Green Beans:

• 1 ½ pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-2 inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
• Salt for seasoning

For the Mushroom Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 8 oz. mushrooms, sliced (mix, button, or cremini)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 ¼ cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Crispy Topping:

• 1 ½ cups fried onions (store-bought or homemade)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional for extra crunch)
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Recipe for Green Bean Casserole with Fresh Green Beans

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Fresh Green Beans

• Blanch the Green Beans: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fresh green beans and cook for 4-5 minutes until they turn bright green and slightly tender.
• Ice Bath: Put the beans in an ice bath right away to halt the cooking process. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Creamy Mushroom Sauce

• Sauté the Mushrooms: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Sliced mushrooms should be added and cooked for five to seven minutes, or until they release their moisture and begin to brown.
• Add Onions and Garlic: Stir in the diced onions and minced garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
• Create the Roux: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour over the mushrooms and onions, stirring constantly to create a roux. To get rid of the taste of raw flour, cook for one to two minutes.
• Add Broth and Cream: Gradually pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, stirring to combine. Then, add the heavy cream or milk, soy sauce, and season with salt and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.

3. Combine the Beans and Sauce

• Mix the Beans and Sauce: Once the mushroom sauce has thickened, add the blanched green beans to the skillet. Stir to coat the beans evenly with the creamy sauce.

4. Assemble the Casserole

• Transfer to a Baking Dish: Pour the green bean and mushroom mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
• Add the Crispy Topping: In a small bowl, mix the fried onions, breadcrumbs (if using), and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.

5. Bake the Casserole

• Preheat the Oven: Set the oven's temperature to 375°F, or 190°C.
• Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Tips for the Best Green Bean Casserole with Fresh Green Beans

• Blanching the Green Beans: Don’t skip the blanching step! This ensures that the green beans are tender but still crisp after baking.
• Choose Fresh Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms add a rich, earthy flavor to the sauce. You can use any variety you like—button, cremini, or even a mix of wild mushrooms for added depth.
• Thickening the Sauce: Make sure to cook the flour thoroughly in the roux to avoid a floury taste. Stir constantly to ensure a smooth, lump-free sauce.
• Crispy Topping: The combination of fried onions and breadcrumbs gives a crunchy texture to the casserole. If you want to add extra flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan into the topping mixture.

Why This Fresh Green Bean Casserole Is Healthier

• Less Sodium: Using fresh green beans and making your mushroom sauce from scratch significantly reduces the sodium content compared to canned beans and soup.
• No Preservatives: This homemade version is free from preservatives and artificial ingredients found in processed foods.
• More Nutrients: Fresh green beans are packed with vitamins like A, C, and K, as well as fiber, making this dish more nutritious than the traditional version.

Serving Suggestions

Green bean casserole pairs beautifully with many main dishes, making it a versatile side. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Holiday Feast: This casserole is a perfect side for roasted turkey, ham, or prime rib during Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter.
• Weeknight Dinner: Serve alongside grilled chicken, pork chops, or baked salmon for a wholesome family meal.
• Potluck Favorite: Green bean casserole is always a crowd-pleaser at potlucks and family gatherings. It’s easy to transport and reheat.

Storing and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover green bean casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, though the topping may lose some of its crispness.
• Freezing: Green bean casserole can be frozen before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. After thawing in the refrigerator for the entire night, bake according to the recipe. If freezing leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

Conclusion

This homemade green bean casserole with fresh green beans offers a delicious and healthy twist on the classic dish. By using fresh ingredients and creating a creamy mushroom sauce from scratch, you can make a flavorful casserole that’s packed with nutrients and perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple family dinner, this green bean casserole is sure to be a favorite on your table.