Are you tired of the same old Thanksgiving sides? Year after year, the green bean casserole often ends up a soggy, creamy disappointment. But fear not! This recipe, inspired by the culinary genius of Alton Brown, elevates the classic to new heights. Forget the canned soup and soggy beans; we're making a truly delicious, from-scratch green bean casserole that's surprisingly easy to make. Get ready for crispy fried onions, perfectly tender green beans, and a creamy mushroom sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. This recipe is perfect for healthy meals and quick dinner ideas, making it a fantastic addition to your homemade cooking repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade – recipe below)
For Homemade Crispy Fried Onions (Optional):
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Green Beans: Blanch the green beans in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until bright green but still crisp-tender. Immediately plunge them into an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain well.
Make the Mushroom Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
Thicken the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and onions, stirring constantly for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
Combine and Bake: Stir in the blanched green beans and butter. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with 3/4 cup of the crispy fried onions.
Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. Remove from the oven and top with the remaining crispy fried onions. Serve immediately.
Homemade Crispy Fried Onions (If Making from Scratch):
- Toss the thinly sliced onions with flour, salt, and pepper.
- Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Carefully add the floured onions to the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-5 minutes per batch.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor, use a combination of cremini and shiitake mushrooms.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for a warm, autumnal flavor.
- If you're short on time, use pre-cut green beans and store-bought crispy fried onions.
- This recipe is easily doubled or tripled for larger gatherings.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Protein: Approximately 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This green bean casserole recipe offers a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional versions. It's a perfect example of how easy it is to elevate classic dishes with simple, fresh ingredients and a few clever techniques. Enjoy!