Imagine the comforting aroma of a classic green bean casserole, but with a savory twist. This Savory Green Bean Casserole with Garlic-Parmesan Crust elevates the dish with a deliciously crunchy topping and a rich mushroom sauce. Perfect for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, it's a dish that brings warmth and flavor to the table.
Fresh green beans are the star here, providing crispness and a vibrant green color. Blanching them keeps their texture just right. Unsalted butter helps sauté the vegetables while allowing you to control the saltiness. Onion and garlic bring depth of flavor, with the garlic adding a bit of bite. Mushrooms add a rich, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. All-purpose flour thickens the sauce to the perfect consistency. Milk and broth create a creamy base while Parmesan cheese adds umami and richness. Panko breadcrumbs ensure a crispy topping, while olive oil helps it turn golden brown. Finally, a touch of salt and black pepper brings everything together.
This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted meats or a simple grilled chicken. For a vegetarian meal, serve it alongside a hearty grain dish, like quinoa or farro. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also balance out the richness of the casserole.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While that's warming up, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, toss in your trimmed green beans and let them cook for about 4 minutes. This quick blanching keeps them tender-crisp. Drain them well and set aside.
Next, grab a skillet and melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and minced garlic, and let them sauté until the onions are translucent, which should take around 5 minutes. Stir in the mushrooms and cook until they’re soft and browned.
When your mushrooms are ready, sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for about a minute. This helps cook the flour so your sauce doesn’t taste raw. Gradually whisk in the milk and broth. Let this simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens up nicely.
Once thickened, season your sauce with salt and black pepper, then remove it from the heat. In a separate bowl, mix together the Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs with olive oil. This is your scrumptious topping.
Combine the green beans with your mushroom sauce in a baking dish, spreading everything evenly. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top, ensuring an even layer. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
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