This Savory Green Bean and Mushroom Casserole is a perfect blend of comforting, creamy sauce and crisp, fresh vegetables. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite on your table.
Green beans are the star here, providing a crisp, fresh texture to balance the rich sauce. Cremini mushrooms add an earthy depth that pairs beautifully with the beans. Butter is essential for sautéing, lending richness to the base of the dish. Onion and garlic infuse the sauce with aromatic warmth, while flour helps thicken it to the perfect consistency. Vegetable broth and heavy cream create a luscious, creamy sauce, enhanced by dried thyme and oregano for a hint of herbal flavor. Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, savory finish, and crispy fried onions provide a crunchy, flavorful topping. Season with salt and pepper to taste, to bring all the flavors together.
This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or turkey, making it a fantastic side dish for a holiday spread. It’s also delicious alongside a simple green salad for a lighter meal.
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in the green beans and let them blanch for about four minutes. You want them bright green and tender-crisp. Drain them well and set aside for later.
Next, grab a large skillet and melt the butter over medium heat. Add your mushrooms, onions, and garlic. Sauté them until the mushrooms turn a lovely golden brown and the onions become translucent, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the flour, letting it cook for just a minute before gradually whisking in the vegetable broth and heavy cream. Add the thyme and oregano, bringing it all to a gentle simmer. Let it cook until the sauce thickens, which should take another 3-5 minutes. You’re looking for a nicely thickened sauce here.
Once the sauce is ready, remove it from the heat and stir in half of the Parmesan cheese. Give it a taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Combine your blanched green beans with this delicious mushroom sauce in a large baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese and crispy fried onions over the top.
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake it for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, just to let everything set nicely.