why make this recipe
French Onion Green Bean Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic green bean casserole. This dish not only combines the heartiness of green beans with rich, caramelized onions but also adds the earthy flavor of mushrooms. It makes for a comforting side that brings warmth to any meal.
It’s perfect for Thanksgiving, family gatherings, or even a weeknight dinner. The casserole offers a unique take on traditional dishes, making it a healthy option to enhance your holiday table or weeknight dinners with something new yet satisfying.
equipment needed for French Onion Green Bean Casserole
To make this delicious casserole, you will need a few essential pieces of kitchen equipment. First, a large saucepan for cooking the onions and sautéing the mushrooms is key. You will also want to have a large mixing bowl for combining the ingredients.
A casserole dish is necessary for baking the final masterpiece, and using an ice bath helps in retaining the vibrant color and crispiness of the blanched green beans. Lastly, consider a cutting board and a knife for slicing the onions and mushrooms.
What You Need to Make French Onion Green Bean Casserole
- 4 medium yellow onions, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper, divided
- 2 1/2 pounds green beans, trimmed and cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
- 8 ounces baby bella mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups 2% milk, plus additional as needed
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup croutons, crushed
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese, divided
How to Cook French Onion Green Bean Casserole Step by Step
Start by caramelizing the onions, which is the heart of this dish. In a large saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the thinly sliced onions. Cook the onions for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Next, reduce the heat to low and sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Continue to cook the onions on low heat for about 90 to 120 minutes, stirring every so often. You’ll want the onions to become golden and caramelized, as this will add depth of flavor to the casserole.
While the onions are cooking, preheat your oven to 375°F. Prepare a large casserole dish by greasing it lightly with butter or non-stick spray. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to boil for the green beans.
Once the water is boiling, add the trimmed and cut green beans. Blanch them in the boiling water for about 3 minutes. After they have blanched, quickly plunge them into an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This will help to maintain their vibrant green color and keep them crisp.
Now, it’s time to sauté the mushrooms. In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced baby bella mushrooms to the pan. Sauté until they are browned, which should take around 5-7 minutes.
After the mushrooms are browned, sprinkle in the 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. Gradually pour in the 2 1/2 cups of milk while stirring to avoid lumps. Keep cooking until the sauce thickens, which may take around 5-10 minutes.
Once the sauce has thickened, season it with the remaining salt, black pepper, and a hint of ground nutmeg. Now it’s the perfect time to combine your ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, layer the blanched green beans, the mushroom sauce, and the caramelized onions.
Add in 1 cup of the shredded Gruyere cheese to the mix, making sure everything is evenly coated and mixed together. Transfer this delicious mixture to the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
For the topping, in a small bowl, combine the crushed croutons, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and the remaining Gruyere cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.
Pop the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You are looking for a bubbly and golden-brown top. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This brief resting time will help the layers settle.
how to make French Onion Green Bean Casserole
Making this casserole is quite straightforward once you have all the components ready. The key is the caramelized onions, which set the tone for the dish. Start by cooking them slowly to develop the sweet flavor. Following that, the combination of sautéed mushrooms and thickened milk sauce completes the base.
By layering each component into the casserole dish, you create a delightful mix of textures and flavors. The crispy topping contrasts beautifully with the creamy base, making every forkful a delight.
It’s essential to allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving, as it helps to keep the layers intact and makes it easier to serve.
how to serve French Onion Green Bean Casserole
Serving French Onion Green Bean Casserole is part of what makes it special. Once you have allowed the casserole to rest for about 10 minutes, use a spatula to cut into squares for serving.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses. The cheesy, creamy goodness of the casserole complements roasted meats, poultry, or even a hearty vegetarian main dish.
You can also garnish with some additional freshly grated Parmesan or even fresh herbs, like parsley, to brighten the dish just before serving.
what to serve with French Onion Green Bean Casserole
French Onion Green Bean Casserole can easily become a star on your dinner table. It pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, glazed ham, or chicken.
For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside a hearty grain salad or stuffed peppers. The rich flavors of the casserole balance well with lighter dishes, making it a versatile addition to your meal.
Don’t forget about the beverages! A crisp white wine or a light red complements the savory flavors, making every bite even more enjoyable.
how to store French Onion Green Bean Casserole
Storing any leftovers is simple. Allow the casserole to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. This will keep it fresh for up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator.
If you wish to store it longer, consider freezing it. Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen, it can last for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until heated through.
tips to make French Onion Green Bean Casserole
To achieve the best results, remember a few tips. Caramelizing the onions takes time, so be patient. The longer they cook, the richer the flavor.
Using fresh ingredients enhances the overall taste. Fresh green beans and good quality cheese make a noticeable difference.
If you desire a bit of spice, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the mushroom sauce for an extra kick.
variation
There are several variations you can try with this casserole recipe. For a smoky flavor, add some crispy bacon or pancetta to the dish.
If you’re feeling adventurous, substitute the Gruyere cheese with other varieties like cheddar or fontina for a different taste experience.
You can also add a layer of sautéed garlic or leeks for added depth, or even toss in some cooked quinoa for added texture and nutrition.
best time to make French Onion Green Bean Casserole
French Onion Green Bean Casserole is an excellent dish for any time of the year but shines during the fall and winter months. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or potlucks, where it can easily serve a crowd.
This dish also makes a lovely addition to Thanksgiving or Christmas feasts. Beyond special occasions, you can enjoy this casserole on any weeknight when you crave something comforting.
common mistakes to avoid
When making this casserole, it’s helpful to avoid a few common mistakes. First, don’t rush the caramelization of the onions. Aiming for golden brown takes time but adds much more flavor.
Next, be cautious with the milk. Adding it too quickly can lead to lumps in the sauce. Gradually stirring it in will yield a smooth consistency.
Finally, make sure to measure the ingredients accurately for the best results. Straying from the ratio can alter the textures and flavors.
nutritional notes
This casserole is not only delicious; it provides nutritional value. Green beans are low in calories and high in fiber, making them an excellent choice for those looking to increase vegetable intake.
The addition of mushrooms adds nutrients such as vitamin D and antioxidants. Meanwhile, using milk and cheese contributes calcium and protein, making this a well-rounded dish.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving.
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen green beans can work as well. Just make sure to thaw them fully before mixing them into the casserole.
Is there a way to make it gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure that your croutons and cheese are gluten-free.
conclusion
French Onion Green Bean Casserole is a delightful and comforting dish that brings a new twist to a classic favorite. Filled with rich flavors from caramelized onions, fresh green beans, and a creamy mushroom sauce, it will excite your taste buds. With simple ingredients and easy preparation steps, this casserole is perfect for special occasions or family dinners alike.
Try making it today and enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings to your table!
