Name: Green Bean Casserole
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound frozen green beans; ½ cup diced onion; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1 cup finely diced button mushrooms; 3 tablespoons butter; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2½ cups half and half; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 cups French fried onions

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This green bean casserole is a creamy, comforting dish where tender green beans are coated in a homemade mushroom-Parmesan sauce and topped with crispy French fried onions. It’s a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and crunchy textures.

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe transforms a simple side into something special. The homemade sauce with mushrooms, Parmesan, and seasoning gives it so much more flavor than the canned version. It’s rich without being heavy, and the crispy onions on top add the perfect crunch. Whether I’m making it for a weeknight meal or a holiday gathering, this dish always delivers.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound frozen green beans
• ½ cup diced onion
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 cup finely diced button mushrooms
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2½ cups half and half
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 cups French fried onions

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish.
Steam the frozen green beans according to the package instructions, drain, and set aside.
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté mushrooms, onion, and garlic until tender, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until it forms a light roux.
Slowly whisk in the half and half, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 3 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
In a large bowl, combine the green beans, sautéed vegetables, and creamy sauce.
Transfer the mixture to the baking dish and top with French fried onions.
Bake for 30 minutes, until hot and bubbly with a golden topping.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

I can use fresh green beans instead of frozen for extra texture.
Canned green beans work in a pinch, though they’re softer.
If I prefer a cheesier flavor, I sometimes add shredded cheddar to the sauce or on top.
For a slightly different twist, I’ve used cream instead of half and half for an even richer sauce.

Storage / Reheating

I store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
To reheat, I microwave individual portions or warm the whole dish in the oven at 325°F until heated through.
I don’t recommend freezing this casserole, as the sauce can separate when thawed.

FAQs

Can I use canned green beans?

Yes, I can use canned green beans—just be sure to drain them well before mixing them into the sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

I often prepare everything except the onion topping a day in advance, store it covered in the fridge, then add the onions and bake before serving.

How do I keep the onions from getting soggy?

I always wait to add the French fried onions until right before baking so they stay crisp and golden.

Can I add cheese on top?

Absolutely. If I want a cheesier version, I sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella over the top before baking.

Is this casserole vegetarian?

Yes, as long as the Parmesan I use is vegetarian-friendly and I avoid adding meat, it’s a great vegetarian side dish.

Conclusion

This green bean casserole brings together creamy sauce, savory vegetables, and crispy topping in every bite. It’s simple to prepare, full of flavor, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether I’m serving it for a family dinner or a holiday feast, it’s a go-to recipe I keep coming back to.