Green bean casserole is a classic Thanksgiving side dish that is loved for its creamy texture and savory flavor. While the traditional recipe calls for canned soup and fried onions, there are many ways to put a unique twist on this dish. In this recipe, we’ll explore three delicious variations of green bean casserole that are sure to impress your guests and become a new holiday favorite.
Ingredients for Green Bean Casserole:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and halved
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Additional Ingredients for Variation 1 – Bacon and Cheese:
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Additional Ingredients for Variation 2 – Mushrooms and Herbs:
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
Additional Ingredients for Variation 3 – Spicy Southwest:
- 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Topping Ingredients (for all variations):
- 1 cup French fried onions
How to Make Green Bean Casserole:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Blanch the Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 5 minutes. Drain the beans and immediately plunge them into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again and set aside.
3. Make the Base Sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture is golden brown. Slowly whisk in the broth and milk, and cook until the mixture is thickened, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Add Additional Ingredients for Each Variation:
Variation 1 – Bacon and Cheese: Stir in the cooked bacon and shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese is melted.
Variation 2 – Mushrooms and Herbs: In a separate skillet, sauté the mushrooms in a little butter until they release their juices. Add the garlic and thyme and cook for an additional minute. Stir this mixture into the base sauce.
Variation 3 – Spicy Southwest: Stir in the diced green chilies, ground cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepper.
5. Combine the Sauce and Green Beans: Add the blanched green beans to the sauce and stir until well coated.
6. Bake the Casserole: Pour the green bean mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and heated through.
7. Add the Topping: Sprinkle the French fried onions over the top of the casserole and return it to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and crispy.
8. Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious green bean casserole!
About the Main Ingredients:
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are the star of this dish. They add a crisp texture and fresh flavor that canned beans just can’t match.
Bacon: Bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor to the casserole. It pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce and adds a nice crunch.
Mushrooms: Mushrooms add a meaty texture and earthy flavor to the casserole. They are a great way to add depth to the dish.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese adds richness and creaminess to the casserole. It melts beautifully into the sauce and adds a nice cheesy flavor.
Spices: The spices in the spicy southwest variation add a kick of heat and flavor to the casserole. They complement the other ingredients and add a unique twist to the dish.
Green bean casserole is a classic dish that can be customized in many ways. Whether you prefer a traditional recipe or want to try something new, these variations are sure to please. Try one of these delicious green bean casserole recipes for your next holiday gathering and wow your guests with your creativity and cooking skills!
