Tired of the same old canned cream of mushroom soup green bean casserole? Yearning for a healthier, homemade version that still delivers that classic Thanksgiving (or any day!) comfort? Then you've come to the right place! This recipe ditches the processed soup for a creamy, flavorful sauce made from scratch, resulting in a delicious and surprisingly easy green bean casserole that will impress your family and friends. This healthy and easy recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas or best recipes for homemade cooking.
Why Make Green Bean Casserole from Scratch?
Homemade green bean casserole offers a chance to control the ingredients, resulting in a healthier and more flavorful dish. You’ll avoid the high sodium and artificial ingredients often found in canned soups, creating a lighter, more satisfying experience. Trust us, the extra effort is worth it! This recipe is perfect for those looking for delicious dishes and healthy meals, proving that healthy eating doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1/4 cup milk (or cream for a richer sauce)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 cup crispy fried onions (or make your own!)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans: Steam or blanch the green beans until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. You want them to retain a slight bite. Immediately plunge them into an ice bath to stop the cooking process and maintain their vibrant green color. Drain well.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce: Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Thicken the Sauce: Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4: Season and Combine: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the milk (or cream), pepper, salt, and nutmeg. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has reached your desired consistency. Add the cooked green beans and gently stir to coat them evenly in the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Bake and Garnish: Transfer the green bean mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with crispy fried onions. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
Tips for the Best Green Bean Casserole:
- Don’t overcook the green beans: Slightly undercooked beans will ensure they retain their texture and don't become mushy in the casserole.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh green beans and herbs will significantly enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Make your own crispy fried onions: For an even healthier option, try making your own crispy fried onions. Many easy recipes are available online.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add more or less salt, pepper, and nutmeg to suit your preference. A dash of Worcestershire sauce can also add depth of flavor.
Variations:
- Add mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms would be a delicious addition to this recipe, creating a closer resemblance to the classic version.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique flavor profile.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Around 250-300 (depending on ingredients and serving size)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
This easy recipe creates a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional green bean casserole. It's a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving table or any weeknight dinner. Enjoy!