Old Fashioned Green Bean Casserole | Traditional Comfort Dish

A classic recipe featuring tender green beans in a creamy mushroom sauce topped with crispy fried onions, just like grandma used to make.

I’m Elena, bringing you this timeless American classic through my Italian lens. When I first moved to America, I discovered the Old Fashioned Green Bean Casserole at a neighborhood potluck and instantly understood why it’s been a beloved staple for generations. This Old Fashioned Green Bean Casserole reminds me of how simple ingredients can create something truly special, just like my Nonna’s cooking back in Florence. Today, I’m sharing my version of this Old Fashioned Green Bean Casserole that honors tradition while adding a touch of Italian care to each step.

Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Green Bean Casserole

Authentic Traditional Flavor

First, this Old Fashioned Green Bean Casserole captures the nostalgic taste of classic American cooking. Moreover, the combination of creamy sauce and crispy topping creates the perfect balance of textures.

Simple, Nostalgic Ingredients

Additionally, this Old Fashioned Green Bean Casserole uses pantry staples you likely already have. Therefore, you can create this comforting dish without special shopping trips.

Perfect for Holiday Gatherings

Furthermore, this Old Fashioned Green Bean Casserole has become a must-have at holiday tables. Consequently, it brings families together with its familiar, comforting presence.

Crowd-Pleasing Side Dish

Similarly, this Old Fashioned Green Bean Casserole appeals to almost everyone, even picky eaters. Thus, it’s my reliable choice when feeding a group with diverse tastes.

Old Fashioned Green Bean Casserole Ingredients

Fresh Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Fresh green beans	2 pounds, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
Mushrooms	8 ounces, sliced
Yellow onion	1 medium, finely diced
Garlic	2 cloves, minced

Sauce Components

Ingredient	Quantity
Butter	4 tablespoons
All-purpose flour	¼ cup
Whole milk	1½ cups
Chicken broth	½ cup
Worcestershire sauce	1 teaspoon
Soy sauce	½ teaspoon
Salt	1 teaspoon
Black pepper	½ teaspoon

Topping

Ingredient	Quantity
Fried onions	2½ cups
Parmesan cheese	¼ cup, grated (optional)

How to Make Old Fashioned Green Bean Casserole

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and butter a 2-quart casserole dish.
2. Blanch green beans in boiling water for 4 minutes, then transfer to ice bath.
3. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Sauté onions and mushrooms until tender, about 6-7 minutes.
5. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Sprinkle flour over vegetables and stir constantly for 2 minutes.
7. Gradually whisk in milk and broth until smooth.
8. Add Worcestershire, soy sauce, salt, and pepper, simmer until thickened.
9. Fold in green beans and transfer to prepared dish.
10. Top with fried onions and bake for 25 minutes until bubbly.

Cooking Timeline

Step	Action	Duration
1	Preheat oven and prepare dish	5 minutes
2	Blanch green beans	8 minutes
3	Sauté vegetables	8 minutes
4	Make sauce	10 minutes
5	Assemble casserole	5 minutes
6	Bake	25 minutes

Old Fashioned Green Bean Casserole Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 8-10
Calories per serving: 240

Old Fashioned Green Bean Casserole Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use frozen green beans if fresh aren’t available. Additionally, substitute half-and-half for whole milk for richer flavor. Furthermore, gluten-free flour works well in this Old Fashioned Green Bean Casserole.

How to Make It Healthier

Reduce butter by half and increase mushrooms for more volume. Moreover, use low-fat milk and less fried onions on top. Therefore, you can enjoy a lighter version of this Old Fashioned Green Bean Casserole.

Serving Ideas

Pair with roasted turkey or ham for a classic holiday meal. Additionally, serve alongside greenbean casserole recipe for variety. Furthermore, this Old Fashioned Green Bean Casserole complements miso mushroom udon surprisingly well for a fusion meal.

Old Fashioned Green Bean Casserole Storage and Reheating

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Additionally, freeze portions for up to 2 months. Therefore, you can enjoy this Old Fashioned Green Bean Casserole long after the special occasion.

Reheating Tips

Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Moreover, add fresh fried onions just before serving to maintain crispness. Consequently, your Old Fashioned Green Bean Casserole will taste freshly made.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t skip blanching the green beans, as this ensures proper texture. Additionally, avoid overcooking the sauce, which can make it too thick. Therefore, following these tips guarantees perfect Old Fashioned Green Bean Casserole every time.

Old Fashioned Green Bean Casserole FAQs

What are the ingredients for green bean casserole?

The essential ingredients include green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and crispy fried onions. Additionally, traditional recipes often include Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce for depth. Therefore, this Old Fashioned Green Bean Casserole creates the perfect balance of flavors that Americans have loved for generations.

Do you have to cook green beans before making green bean casserole?

Yes, you should blanch green beans before adding them to the casserole. Additionally, this step ensures they remain crisp-tender rather than becoming mushy during baking. Therefore, this Old Fashioned Green Bean Casserole features perfectly textured green beans that hold their shape.

What is the best flavor to add to green beans?

Savory umami flavors like mushrooms, garlic, and onions enhance green beans beautifully. Additionally, a touch of Worcestershire and soy sauce adds depth. Therefore, this Old Fashioned Green Bean Casserole incorporates these elements to create a rich, satisfying dish.

Do you put soy sauce or Worcestershire in green bean casserole?

Both soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce can be added to enhance the umami flavor. Additionally, I include both in this Old Fashioned Green Bean Casserole for a more complex taste profile. Therefore, you get a deeper, more satisfying flavor than traditional recipes with just one or the other.

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Conclusion

This Old Fashioned Green Bean Casserole represents the best of American comfort food while honoring the care for quality ingredients I learned in my Italian grandmother’s kitchen. The creamy sauce, tender green beans, and crispy topping create a dish that’s both nostalgic and delicious. Try serving it with spicy sesame yaki udon for an unexpected but delightful combination, or alongside garlic butter udon stir-fry for a fusion meal that celebrates the best of both culinary worlds. For more Japanese-inspired dishes, check out my quick Japanese yakisoba noodles and enjoy the flavors of different traditions at your table.

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