Savory Herb and Mushroom Green Bean Casserole

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 25 min
🍽 Serves: 6
★★★★★
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If you're a fan of classic green bean casserole but want to elevate it with a gourmet twist, this Savory Herb and Mushroom Green Bean Casserole is just what you need. With fresh ingredients and a rich, homemade sauce, it's perfect for holiday gatherings or any dinner that needs a touch of comfort.

Ingredients for Savory Herb and Mushroom Green Bean Casserole

Green beans are the star of this dish, offering a fresh, crunchy texture. Butter adds a rich flavor base for sautéing. Cremini mushrooms bring an earthy depth, while a small onion adds sweetness, and garlic contributes a savory aroma. All-purpose flour helps thicken the sauce. Chicken broth and heavy cream create a luxurious, creamy consistency. Dried thyme introduces a fragrant herbal note. Finally, crispy fried shallots add a crunch and savory finishing touch.

Tips & Tricks

  • Blanch the green beans quickly in ice water after boiling to maintain their vibrant color.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer before combining with the green beans.
  • Use a whisk to mix the broth and cream into the flour to avoid lumps.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken or a perfectly seared steak. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside a hearty grain like quinoa or barley. A crisp white wine, like a Chardonnay, complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned green beans?
Fresh green beans are recommended for the best texture, but canned can be used in a pinch. Just make sure to drain them well.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the casserole up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate for up to a day. Add the shallots and bake just before serving.

Savory Herb and Mushroom Green Bean Casserole Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that's warming up, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in the green beans and let them cook for about 5 minutes—just enough to tenderize them without losing their crunch. Drain them well and set them aside for later.

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms, diced onion, and minced garlic. Stir them around until softened, which should take about 5 minutes. This is where the kitchen starts to smell amazing.

Next, sprinkle in the flour over your mushroom mixture and keep stirring for about 2 minutes. This step is crucial to avoid lumps in your sauce. Gradually pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking continuously. Let it cook until it thickens, usually in about 3-5 minutes.

Once your sauce is ready, season it with thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix the sauce with the cooked green beans, ensuring everything is well-coated. Transfer this mixture into a baking dish.

Top with crispy fried shallots and pop it into the oven. Bake for about 25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling. Serve it hot and enjoy!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich, creamy mushroom sauce made from scratch.
  • Fresh green beans add a delightful crunch.
  • Crispy fried shallots provide the perfect savory topping.
  • Easy to prepare yet impressive enough for guests.

Ingredients

1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 cup cremini mushrooms, sliced
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp ground black pepper
1 cup crispy fried shallots

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Boil the green beans in salted water for 5 minutes, then drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms, onion, and garlic, cooking until softened.
4. Stir in the flour, cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, cooking until the mixture thickens.
6. Add thyme, salt, and pepper, then remove from heat.
7. Combine the green beans with the mushroom sauce, mixing well.
8. Transfer to a baking dish and top with crispy fried shallots.
9. Bake for 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.

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