Crunchy Almond Green Bean Casserole

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 6
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This Crunchy Almond Green Bean Casserole is a delightful twist on a classic. It's perfect for those who crave a bit of crunch and creaminess in every bite. Whether for a holiday feast or a cozy dinner, this dish is sure to impress!

Ingredients for Crunchy Almond Green Bean Casserole

The star of our dish, green beans, are blanched to preserve their vibrant color and tender-crisp texture. Olive oil provides a smooth base for sautéing, while sliced mushrooms add an earthy depth. A touch of garlic brings aromatic warmth. The creamy sauce comes together with almond milk and chicken broth, thickened by all-purpose flour. Parmesan cheese offers a savory richness, balanced by a hint of black pepper and salt. Finally, sliced almonds, toasted in unsalted butter, top the casserole with a satisfying crunch.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a richer flavor, substitute almond milk with half-and-half or full cream.
  • If you prefer a vegetarian option, swap chicken broth for vegetable broth.
  • To save time, prep the green beans and sauce the night before.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or a herbed pork tenderloin. For a vegetarian meal, serve it alongside a quinoa salad or a warm loaf of crusty bread for a hearty feast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned green beans?
Fresh green beans are recommended for the best texture, but canned can work in a pinch. Just be sure to drain and rinse them well.
How do I make this dish vegan?
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and a dairy-free Parmesan substitute.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before storing in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Crunchy Almond Green Bean Casserole Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it's warming up, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Toss in the green beans and let them blanch for about 3 minutes. This helps them stay vibrant and crisp. Once done, drain and set them aside.

Next, grab a skillet and heat up the olive oil over medium. Add in those sliced mushrooms and minced garlic, sautéing them until they turn a lovely golden brown, usually about 5 minutes. The aroma should start to fill your kitchen, a sign you're on the right track.

Now, pour in the almond milk and chicken broth, stirring gently. Gradually whisk in the flour, ensuring no lumps form, until your sauce is smooth and starts to thicken. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, along with the salt and black pepper, until the cheese melts into the sauce.

Combine the green beans with your sauce, making sure they're well-coated, and transfer everything to a baking dish. In a small pan, melt the butter over low heat and toss in the sliced almonds, coating them nicely.

Sprinkle the almonds evenly over the casserole, then pop it into the oven. Bake for about 25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Once it's out, give it a 5-minute rest before serving. Enjoy!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare with simple ingredients.
  • A delightful blend of textures: creamy sauce and crunchy almonds.
  • Perfect for both everyday dinners and special occasions.
  • Features a unique flavor combo that stands out from traditional casseroles.

Ingredients

1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
1 tbsp olive oil
4 oz sliced mushrooms
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 cup almond milk
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup sliced almonds
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp salt
1 tbsp unsalted butter

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot of boiling water, blanch the green beans for 3 minutes, then drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté mushrooms and garlic until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in almond milk and chicken broth, then gradually whisk in flour until smooth and thickened.
5. Add Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper, stirring until cheese melts.
6. Combine sauce with green beans and transfer to a baking dish.
7. Melt butter in a small pan and toss almonds to coat.
8. Sprinkle almonds over the casserole evenly.
9. Bake for 25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
10. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

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