Green bean casserole is a classic comfort food that graces many holiday tables and family dinners. But when made from scratch, it transforms into a vibrant, flavorful dish packed with fresh ingredients and rich, creamy textures that store-bought versions simply can’t match. This Green Bean Casserole from Scratch combines crisp-tender green beans, sautéed mushrooms and onions, a homemade creamy sauce, and a crunchy topping with turkey bacon for an irresistible twist. It’s easy to prepare, uses wholesome ingredients, and brings that nostalgic feeling of home-cooked goodness in every bite. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving, a weeknight side, or any special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

Fresh Ingredients: Using 1 pound of fresh green beans and sautéed mushrooms gives this casserole a vibrant flavor and satisfying texture.
Homemade Creamy Sauce: Instead of canned soup, this recipe features a rich, velvety sauce made from chicken broth and heavy cream, seasoned perfectly with garlic and onion powder.
Crispy Topping: The combination of crispy fried onion pieces and chopped turkey bacon adds a delightful crunch and smoky flavor that elevates the dish.
Simple and Straightforward: With easy-to-follow steps and common ingredients, you can whip this up without fuss yet impress with its homemade touch.
Customizable: Swap or omit ingredients based on your pantry or dietary preferences without losing the essence of the casserole.

Ingredient Checklist

1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and halved for even cooking
1 medium onion, diced
1 cup mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini work great)
2 cups chicken broth (for a vegetarian version, substitute with vegetable broth)
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup crispy fried onion pieces
2 cups cooked turkey bacon, chopped

Before You Start: Equipment

Large pot: For blanching the green beans.
Large skillet: To sauté onions and mushrooms and prepare the sauce.
Mixing spoon: For stirring the sauce and combining ingredients.
Casserole dish (about 9×13 inches): To bake the casserole evenly.
Colander: To drain the green beans after blanching.
Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient amounts.

From Start to Finish: Green Bean Casserole from Scratch

Step 1: Prepare and blanch the green beans

Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and the trimmed green beans. Blanch them for about 3-4 minutes until they turn bright green and are crisp-tender. Immediately transfer the beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant color. Drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté onions and mushrooms

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become soft, about 6-7 minutes. Stir often for even cooking.

Step 3: Make the creamy sauce

Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Slowly add 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent curdling. Let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Combine green beans and sauce

Add the blanched green beans and chopped turkey bacon to the skillet with the creamy mushroom sauce. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 5: Assemble the casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the green bean mixture into your casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the crispy fried onion pieces generously over the top to create a crunchy crust.

Step 6: Bake and serve

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the topping is golden and the sauce is bubbling around the edges. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Budget & Availability Swaps

Fresh green beans: If fresh are unavailable, frozen green beans can be used. Just thaw and pat dry before blanching or sautéing.
Mushrooms: Substitute with canned mushrooms if fresh are out of season, but reduce added salt as canned versions can be salty.
Chicken broth: Use vegetable broth as a substitute for a lighter flavor or to suit dietary preferences.
Heavy cream: Whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour can be a budget-friendly alternative, though the sauce will be less rich.
Turkey bacon: For a vegetarian option, omit the bacon and add toasted nuts or extra crispy fried onions for texture.

Learn from These Mistakes

Overcooking green beans: Avoid boiling green beans too long; they should remain crisp-tender to maintain texture and color.
Not thickening the sauce enough: A watery sauce will make the casserole soggy. Simmer until slightly thickened for the perfect consistency.
Skipping the ice bath: This step stops cooking and keeps your green beans bright and fresh-looking.
Adding crispy onions too early: Add the crispy fried onion topping just before baking to preserve their crunch.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

This casserole can be assembled a day ahead. Prepare the green bean mixture and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the crispy fried onion pieces separate until ready to bake. When baking the next day, add the topping and bake as directed.

Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave. To maintain crispiness, add fresh fried onion pieces on top when reheating.

Helpful Q&A

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the turkey bacon. You can add extra crispy fried onions or toasted nuts for added texture and flavor.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you want a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into the simmering sauce and cook for a few more minutes until thickened.

What can I use if I don’t have fried onion pieces?

You can make your own by thinly slicing an onion, coating with a little flour, and frying until golden and crispy. Alternatively, crushed crispy shallots or even toasted breadcrumbs can provide a crunchy topping.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Assemble everything except the crispy onion topping, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking and add the topping fresh.

Serve with These

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Gratin – Creamy and cheesy, this potato side pairs beautifully with the casserole’s savory flavors.
Fresh Herb Potato Salad – A light and refreshing salad to balance the richness of the Green Bean Casserole from Scratch.
Roasted Turkey or Chicken – Complement the casserole with a simple roasted protein for a complete meal.
Buttery Dinner Rolls – Soft rolls are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on the plate.

Wrap-Up

Making Green Bean Casserole from Scratch is a rewarding way to elevate a beloved classic. By using fresh green beans, a creamy homemade sauce, and a crunchy topping with turkey bacon, you get layers of flavor and texture that are truly satisfying. This recipe is approachable for cooks of all levels and can be adapted to fit your needs and preferences. Serve it alongside comforting sides like Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Gratin or a bright Fresh Herb Potato Salad for a well-rounded feast. Next time you want a dish that feels both nostalgic and fresh, this casserole is your go-to!

Enjoy making and sharing this delightful green bean casserole that’s truly made from scratch!

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