This Skillet Green Bean Casserole is a cozy side dish that brings together fresh green beans, creamy soup, and crispy onions. It’s quick and easy to make, perfect for any meal!
I love how you can whip this up in just one skillet! It saves on dishes and gives you all the comfort of the classic casserole without the long bake time. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are best for this dish, as they provide a nice crunch. If you’re in a pinch, frozen green beans can work too, though they may be softer.
Mushrooms: I love using cremini mushrooms for their rich flavor. However, button mushrooms or shiitake mushrooms can also be used depending on what you like or have available.
Cream: Heavy cream gives that rich texture, but if you’re looking for a lighter version, half-and-half or even milk mixed with a tablespoon of cornstarch can substitute. For dairy-free, look for plant-based creams.
Broth: Chicken broth adds flavor, but vegetable broth keeps it vegetarian. You can also use homemade broth for a fresher taste.
Crispy Fried Onions: Store-bought are super convenient, but feel free to make your own by frying thinly sliced onions in oil. They add a great crunch and flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Sauce is Creamy and Not Lumpy?
Creating a smooth, creamy sauce is key to making this casserole delicious. Here’s how to do it:
- When adding flour, make sure to stir well and cook it for a bit to remove any raw taste. This helps in forming a good base.
- Slowly pour in the broth while continuously stirring. This prevents lumps from forming, making sure everything blends smoothly.
- Don’t rush the simmering stage. Allow the sauce to thicken gently; this will enhance the flavors.
These simple steps will help you achieve a creamy texture that coats the green beans perfectly!
Skillet Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Fresh Green Beans: 1 lb, trimmed
- Unsalted Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Mushrooms: 8 oz, sliced
- Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: 1 cup
- Chicken Broth or Vegetable Broth: 1 cup
- Soy Sauce or Worcestershire Sauce: 1 teaspoon (optional)
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
- Crispy Fried Onions: 1 cup (store-bought or homemade)
- All-Purpose Flour: 1 tablespoon (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh Parsley: chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Skillet Green Bean Casserole takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 20-25 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need around 30-35 minutes to get this delicious side dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blanch the Green Beans:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the trimmed green beans and blanch them for about 3-4 minutes until they turn bright green and are just tender. Once they’re done, drain them and immediately plunge them into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. After a couple of minutes, drain them again and set aside.
2. Cook the Onions and Mushrooms:
In a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3 minutes. Next, add the sliced mushrooms and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and begin to brown.
3. Add Garlic and Flour:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. If you’re using flour, sprinkle it over the mushrooms and onions now, stirring well to combine. Let it cook for about 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
4. Make the Sauce:
Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while stirring to avoid any lumps forming. Then, add the heavy cream or half-and-half. If you want to boost the flavor, stir in the soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce. Simmer this mixture gently for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens up nicely.
5. Combine with Green Beans:
Now, add the blanched green beans to the skillet and gently toss them in the creamy mushroom sauce until fully coated. Season with salt and black pepper to taste—this is the time to adjust flavors as you like!
6. Top with Crispy Onions:
Sprinkle the crispy fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole. If you want them extra crispy, you can place the skillet under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, but be sure to keep an eye on it so they don’t burn.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your casserole with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm right from the skillet. Enjoy the delightful combination of tender green beans in creamy sauce, topped with that perfect crunch from the fried onions!
This easy-to-make Skillet Green Bean Casserole combines comfort and flavor, making it a fantastic addition to any meal. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess moisture. The cooking time may be slightly shorter, so keep an eye on them while cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half works well as a substitute. For a dairy-free version, consider using almond milk or coconut cream, but you may want to thicken the sauce with a bit of cornstarch.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if it’s too thick.
What Else Can I Add to the Casserole?
Feel free to customize this casserole! You can add cooked chicken or turkey for protein, or mix in other vegetables like corn or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
