This Creamy Herbed Green Bean Casserole is a fresh twist on a classic favorite. It's packed with vibrant flavors, thanks to the fresh herbs and cremini mushrooms, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion.
Green beans are the star of the show, offering a fresh and slightly sweet base. Cremini mushrooms bring a depth of flavor with their earthy notes, complementing the beans beautifully. Onions and garlic add aromatic richness to the dish, while butter gives the sauce its creamy texture. Flour is used to thicken the sauce, and a combination of whole milk, heavy cream, and chicken broth ensures it's luscious and smooth. Parmesan cheese adds a hint of nuttiness, and fresh thyme brings a lovely herbal note. Salt and black pepper are essential for seasoning, and finally, crispy fried onions provide a delightful crunch on top.
This casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken or turkey, making it a fantastic addition to holiday meals. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside a hearty grain salad or stuffed bell peppers. A crisp white wine complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it's ready to go once your casserole is assembled. While the oven is warming up, bring a pot of water to a boil. Add your green beans and blanch them for about three minutes. This process helps retain their vibrant color and crispness. Once done, immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
Next, grab a large skillet and melt the butter over medium heat. Toss in the diced onions and sauté until they're translucent — this should take about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms turn a lovely golden brown.
Once your veggies are nicely cooked, sprinkle in the flour, stirring continuously for about a minute. This step creates a roux, which will thicken your sauce. Gradually whisk in the milk, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Let it cook until the mix thickens, stirring occasionally.
Fold in the Parmesan cheese, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. The sauce should be creamy and well-seasoned, ready to coat the green beans.
Combine the blanched green beans with your sauce, ensuring they're well-covered. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Finally, sprinkle the crispy fried onions over the top.
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes. You're looking for a bubbly, golden finish. Once done, let it cool slightly before serving.