Name: Delicious Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Fried Shallots
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (Use olive oil for a lighter option.); 1 medium shallot (Can substitute with onion if unavailable.); 8 ounces cremini mushrooms (Swap for button mushrooms or omit if desired.); 2 cloves garlic (Fresh garlic is recommended for best results.); 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme (Dried thyme can be used as a substitute (use less).); 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (Gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute.); 2 cups chicken stock (Vegetable stock is suitable for a vegetarian version.); 1/2 cup heavy cream (Half-and-half can be used for a lighter version.); to taste kosher salt (Adjust to taste.); to taste black pepper (Adjust to taste.); 1 cup white cheddar cheese (Can substitute with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyere.); 1 pound fresh green beans (Fresh or frozen green beans can be utilized.); 1 cup Panko (Regular breadcrumbs work if Panko is not available.); to taste canola oil (Vegetable oil can be used alternately.); 1 medium shallots (for frying) (Red onions can be used as a substitute if preferred.)

The aroma of crispy fried shallots wafting through the kitchen transports me straight back to family gatherings, where laughter and delicious food blend seamlessly. This best-ever green bean casserole is a made-from-scratch classic that never fails to impress, transforming even the most skeptical of green bean eaters into fans. With a creamy, rich sauce bursting with umami and a satisfying crunch from the shallot topping, this dish embodies comfort food defined. Preparing this casserole is not only quick and straightforward, but it also adds a gourmet touch to your holiday table. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving or just craving something homemade, this versatile side dish is sure to elevate any meal. Are you ready to discover your new favorite comfort food?

What makes this casserole so special?

Comforting and Classic: This green bean casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family gatherings and holiday feasts.
Easy to Customize: With simple substitutions, you can make this dish your own—try using vegetable broth for a vegetarian spin!
Rich, Creamy Sauce: The luxurious blend of cream and cheddar creates an indulgent sauce that wraps around the tender green beans beautifully.
Crispy Topping: Topped with perfectly fried shallots, each bite offers a delightful crunch that enhances the creamy base.
Time-Saving: Quick and straightforward prep ensures you can whip this up in no time, giving you more moments to enjoy with loved ones.
Crowd-Pleaser: This casserole consistently impresses and is sure to win over even the pickiest of eaters—just like my Eggs Benedict Casserole does!

Green Bean Casserole Ingredients

Dive into the flavorful world of green bean casserole with these essential ingredients!

For the Sauce
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and helps in sautéing the ingredients. Use olive oil for a lighter option.
Shallot – Provides aromatic flavor depth in the sauce. Can substitute with onion if unavailable.
Cremini Mushrooms – Adds umami flavor and texture. Swap for button mushrooms or omit if desired.
Garlic – Enhances overall flavor with its pungent taste. Fresh garlic is recommended for best results.
Chopped Fresh Thyme – Contributes fresh herbal notes. Dried thyme can be used as a substitute (use less).
All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the creamy sauce. Gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute.
Chicken Stock – Forms the base of the sauce for flavor. Vegetable stock is suitable for a vegetarian version.
Heavy Cream – Enriches the sauce for a creamy finish. Half-and-half can be used for a lighter version.
Kosher Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning. Adjust to taste.
White Cheddar Cheese – Adds creamy texture and sharp flavor. Can substitute with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyere.
For the Green Beans
Fresh Green Beans – The primary vegetable, providing texture and vibrant color. Fresh or frozen green beans can be utilized.
For the Topping
Panko – For crispy topping texture. Regular breadcrumbs work if Panko is not available.
Canola Oil – Needed for frying the shallots to a crisp. Vegetable oil can be used alternately.
Shallots (for frying) – Provides the signature crispy topping. Red onions can be used as a substitute if preferred.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Delicious Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Fried Shallots

Step 1: Fry Shallots
Heat canola oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium heat until it reaches 325°F. Carefully add thinly sliced shallots that have been lightly coated in flour. Fry for about 2-4 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried shallots to paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 2: Preheat Oven
While the shallots are frying, preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your delicious green bean casserole will bake evenly and become perfectly bubbly and golden when it’s time to cook.

Step 3: Cook Base
In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add a finely chopped shallot and cremini mushrooms, sautéing them for about 5 minutes until they brown and soften. Stir in minced garlic and chopped fresh thyme, allowing the mixture to cook for an additional minute until aromatic.

Step 4: Make Sauce
Sprinkle 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well to coat. Gradually pour in 2 cups of chicken stock, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens, which should take about 4-5 minutes. This creamy base will enhance your green bean casserole’s rich flavor.

Step 5: Add Green Beans
Gently fold in 1 pound of fresh green beans and cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are crisp-tender. You want them to retain some bite while absorbing the flavorful sauce that you’ve just created for the green bean casserole.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Remove the skillet from heat and add 1 cup of white cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of heavy cream, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Season to taste with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavors in your green bean casserole.

Step 7: Top and Bake
Transfer your green bean mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese, followed by 1 cup of Panko and the crispy fried shallots on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden and crispy.

Step 8: Serve Hot
Once your green bean casserole is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve it hot as a warm, comforting side dish that will surely impress at any gathering or holiday meal.

Green Bean Casserole Variations

Feel free to get creative with this classic recipe tailored to your taste preferences and dietary needs!

Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and almond milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free casserole.
Mushroom-Free: Omit the cremini mushrooms entirely, or replace them with additional green beans or chopped zucchini.
Cheesy Twist: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for a flavor boost.
Vegan Delight: Replace chicken stock with vegetable broth and choose vegan cheese to transform it into a delicious plant-based option.
Spicy Kick: Stir in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the sauce for a nice spicy flavor without overwhelming heat.
Nutty Crunch: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts with the Panko topping for an extra-layer of texture that’s delightful.
Sweet & Savory: Add a hint of sweetness by mixing in dried cranberries or candied pecans to balance with the savory flavors.
Casserole Combo: For a heartier dish, mix in diced cooked chicken or turkey—perfect for using up holiday leftovers!

As you explore variations, consider pairing your casserole with a fresh side salad like my French Style Potato and Green Bean Salad or a cozy Shrimp Casserole Comfort for a delightful meal! Enjoy the journey of making this dish your own!

What to Serve with Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Fried Shallots

Nothing completes a cozy meal quite like the comforting side of green beans in a rich, creamy dish.

Roast Turkey: Juicy turkey pairs perfectly with the casserole’s flavors, especially during holiday feasts—every bite becomes a heavenly mix.
Honey Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness complements the savory richness of green bean casserole and adds a pop of color to your table.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery potatoes soak up the sauce, creating a comforting bite that makes each forkful satisfying. Pair with gravy for added indulgence!
Homemade Stuffing: The herb-infused stuffing brings depth to your meal, and its texture contrasts wonderfully with the creamy casserole. Ideal for balancing flavors!
Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery slices provide a delightful bite and are perfect for mopping up any remaining sauce—utterly irresistible!
Cranberry Sauce: A tangy and sweet addition that cuts through the richness of the dish, enhancing each mouthful with a refreshing burst of flavor.
Sparkling Apple Cider: A fizzy drink that adds a festive touch to your table while enhancing the dish’s signature flavors with its slight dryness.
Pumpkin Pie: For dessert, a slice of creamy pumpkin pie serves as the ultimate finale, wrapping up your meal with its warm spices and sweet custard.

How to Store and Freeze Green Bean Casserole

Fridge: Store leftover green bean casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help maintain its creamy texture and flavor.

Freezer: If you wish to freeze, prepare the casserole without the crispy topping. Wrap tightly and keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge before adding the topping and baking.

Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes until steaming hot. For a quick option, you can also microwave individual servings.

Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble your green bean casserole a day in advance without baking. Store it in the fridge, and add the topping right before popping it into the oven, ensuring crispness when served.

Make Ahead Options

These green bean casserole preparations are a lifesaver for busy home cooks! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, simply prepare everything up to the point of baking, and store it covered in the refrigerator (omit adding the fried shallots for optimal crunch). When you’re ready to serve, preheat your oven and bake the casserole directly from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through. This method keeps the casserole deliciously creamy and fresh while saving you precious time on busy days! Just remember to top it with crispy shallots right before serving for that perfect crunch.

Tips for the Best Green Bean Casserole

Fry in Batches: Fry shallots in small batches to ensure they cook evenly without overcrowding the pan, preventing sogginess.
Smooth Sauce: Stir continuously while adding stock to keep the sauce smooth; scraping the pan’s sides helps to avoid lumps in your green bean casserole.
Cheese Choices: Try different cheeses like Gruyere for a unique flavor twist. Just remember, sharper cheeses add more depth!
Prepping Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance without the topping. This allows the flavors to meld while keeping the crispy texture intact before baking.
Fresh vs. Frozen: Fresh green beans are best for texture, but you can use frozen if short on time—just thaw and drain them well first!

Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Fried Shallots Recipe FAQs

What type of green beans should I use for the casserole?
Fresh green beans are ideal for this casserole as they offer the best texture and flavor, but you can also use frozen green beans if you’re in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess water in your dish.

How should I store leftover green bean casserole?
You can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze without the crispy topping for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake it, thaw in the fridge overnight, add the topping, and bake as usual.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance without the crispy topping. Cover it with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to add the topping right before baking to keep it crispy and delicious when serving.

What if my sauce is too thick?
If you’ve found your sauce ended up too thick, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of chicken or vegetable stock while stirring, until the desired consistency is reached. This will make it creamy and easy to mix with your green beans.

Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
Yes! To make this casserole vegetarian, replace chicken stock with vegetable broth and omit the shallots if you prefer. Always be cautious with cheese for potential allergens. For those with gluten sensitivities, use gluten-free flour and ensure your Panko is gluten-free as well.

How do I achieve perfectly crispy fried shallots?
Fry shallots in small batches at a consistent oil temperature of 325°F to ensure they cook evenly. Aim for a golden brown appearance, which usually takes about 2-4 minutes. Let them drain on paper towels after frying—this helps maintain their crispiness until serving.