This Savory Mushroom Green Bean Casserole is a delightful twist on a classic dish, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners. With fresh ingredients and a homemade sauce, it brings a depth of flavor that's both comforting and satisfying.
Green beans are the star of the show, providing a fresh, crunchy base that complements the creamy sauce. Olive oil is used to sauté our aromatics, adding a subtle richness. Cremini mushrooms offer an earthy depth, while the onion and garlic bring essential aromatic flavors to the dish.
The all-purpose flour helps to thicken the sauce, which is enriched with whole milk for creaminess and chicken broth for a savory boost. Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, salty finish, while salt, black pepper, and a touch of nutmeg enhance the overall flavor profile. Finally, crispy fried onions provide a delightful crunch on top.
This casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken or turkey, making it an excellent choice for holiday dinners. For a vegetarian meal, serve it alongside a hearty salad with nuts and dried fruit to complement the savory flavors.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures everything is ready to go once your casserole is assembled. Next, blanch the green beans in boiling water for about 3 minutes. The goal is to keep them vibrant and slightly crisp. Quickly transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process, then drain them well.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and onion, cooking until they're soft and fragrant, roughly 5 minutes. Stir in your garlic and let it cook for another minute until you can really smell it.
Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for about 2 minutes. This helps cook out the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, making sure to keep stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth, which will take around 5 minutes.
Once thickened, stir in the parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and a dash of nutmeg. Combine this luscious sauce with your blanched green beans in a baking dish. Sprinkle the top with crispy fried onions and pop it in the oven for 25-30 minutes. You'll know it's ready when it's bubbly and beautifully golden brown on top.