Name: Ina Garten's Green Bean Casserole That Steals the Show
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons butter (Adds a rich, savory flavor; olive oil can lighten the dish.); 1 medium onion (Provides aromatic depth and sweetness; shallots are a milder substitute.); 8 ounces button mushrooms (Contributes umami and creaminess; consider portobello mushrooms for a heartier texture.); 2 cloves garlic (Enhances the flavor; adjust according to personal taste.); 1 pound fresh green beans (The star ingredient; opt for bright, firm beans for the best texture.); 10.5 ounces low-sodium cream of mushroom soup (Binds the flavors together; swap for a homemade mushroom sauce if preferred.); 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese (Adds richness and depth; try Pecorino Romano for a different flavor.); 1 teaspoon salt (Enhances all the flavors; adjust according to your preference.); 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper (Adds a hint of spice; white pepper can be a great alternative.); 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (Provides moisture and flavor; vegetable broth works for a vegetarian option.); 1 cup crispy fried onion strings (Topping for that crunch; making your own fried onions adds a fresh twist.)

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The aroma of a cozy kitchen is unmistakable when you’re preparing Ina Garten’s Green Bean Casserole. This homemade version takes the classic comfort food to delightful new heights, using crisp-tender green beans and a luscious mushroom sauce—no canned soup here! What I adore about this recipe is how effortlessly it brings family and friends together, making it perfect for holiday feasts or just a cozy night in. Plus, with fresh ingredients and a straightforward prep, you can whip it up even on the busiest of weeknights. Are you ready to elevate your casserole game and wow your loved ones with this irresistibly creamy dish?

Why Will You Love This Casserole?

Comforting Tradition: This dish celebrates the essence of comfort food, bringing warmth and nostalgia to your table.

Fresh Ingredients: Using vibrant, crisp green beans and homemade mushroom sauce transforms this classic into a gourmet delight.

Simple Preparation: With just a few steps, this recipe is easy enough for even beginner cooks, ensuring success every time.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of creamy sauce and crunchy fried onions makes it a guaranteed hit amongst family and friends, perfect for any gathering.

Effortless Meal Prep: Make-ahead options allow you to prepare it in advance and heat it up, freeing you to enjoy more time with your guests.

For more delicious sides, don’t miss our delightful Strawberry Spinach Salad or the savory Spinach Mushroom Chicken that would pair beautifully with this casserole!

Ina Garten’s Green Bean Casserole Ingredients

• Discover the fresh ingredients that make this casserole shine!

For the Casserole

Butter – Adds a rich, savory flavor; olive oil can lighten the dish.
Onion – Provides aromatic depth and sweetness; shallots are a milder substitute.
Button Mushrooms – Contributes umami and creaminess; Consider portobello mushrooms for a heartier texture.
Garlic – Enhances the flavor; adjust according to personal taste.
Fresh Green Beans – The star ingredient; opt for bright, firm beans for the best texture, and avoid canned for this dish!
Low-Sodium Cream of Mushroom Soup – Binds the flavors together; swap for a homemade mushroom sauce if you prefer.
Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds richness and depth; try Pecorino Romano for a different flavor.
Salt – Enhances all the flavors; adjust according to your preference.
Ground Black Pepper – Adds a hint of spice; white pepper can be a great alternative for a smooth finish.
Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – Provides moisture and flavor; vegetable broth works for a vegetarian option.
Crispy Fried Onion Strings – Topping for that crunch; making your own fried onions adds a fresh twist.

This delightful mix of ingredients ensures that Ina Garten’s Green Bean Casserole becomes a beloved centerpiece at your dinner table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ina Garten’s Green Bean Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking Ina Garten’s Green Bean Casserole. This temperature is ideal for achieving a bubbly and golden finish. While the oven heats, gather your cookware including a large skillet, a mixing bowl, and a greased 2-quart baking dish.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In your skillet, melt a generous amount of butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and sliced button mushrooms, sautéing for approximately 5-7 minutes until they are tender and the mushrooms have released their moisture. Incorporate minced garlic and continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, creating a wonderful base for your casserole.

Step 3: Blanch Beans
Bring a pot of low-sodium chicken broth to a gentle boil. Add the fresh green beans and blanch them for about 8 minutes, just until they are crisp-tender and bright green. Drain the beans well and set them aside, ensuring they retain their vibrant color and avoid overcooking.

Step 4: Combine and Mix
In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed mushroom and onion mixture with the blanched green beans. Add the low-sodium cream of mushroom soup, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and ground black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed, creating the creamy filling for your comforting casserole.

Step 5: Prepare Baking Dish
Grease your 2-quart baking dish with butter to prevent sticking. Carefully transfer the green bean mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. This step sets the stage for even cooking and ensures every bite of Ina Garten’s Green Bean Casserole is delicious.

Step 6: Top and Bake
Sprinkle a generous layer of crispy fried onion strings on top of the casserole mixture, adding a delightful crunch to the dish. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the casserole is golden, bubbly, and invitingly fragrant.

Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked to perfection, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to serve. Ladle out portions of this delicious Ina Garten’s Green Bean Casserole to offer your family and friends a warm, comforting dish they’ll adore.

Expert Tips for Ina Garten’s Green Bean Casserole

Maintain Color: Ensure you blanch the green beans just until they’re crisp-tender to keep them vibrant and fresh.

Avoid Watery Sauce: Sauté the mushrooms until their moisture evaporates; this prevents a soggy casserole.

Layer Wisely: For the best crunchy topping, add crispy onion strings 5-10 minutes before the casserole is done baking to prevent burning.

Flavor Boost: Enhance the umami taste by using a mix of mushrooms, like button and shiitake, in this Ina Garten’s Green Bean Casserole.

Serve Warm: Allow the casserole to sit briefly after baking; this helps in setting the flavors and makes for easier serving!

Make Ahead Options

These Ina Garten’s Green Bean Casserole make-ahead options are perfect for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings! You can prepare the entire casserole mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just sauté the aromatics and blanched green beans, then combine everything (except the crispy onion strings) in your baking dish. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove from the fridge, add the crispy onion strings on top, and bake for an extra 5-10 minutes if it’s cold from being refrigerated. This way, you’ll enjoy a comforting and delicious dish with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Ina Garten’s Green Bean Casserole

Fridge: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To keep the flavors fresh, ensure the casserole is completely cooled before sealing.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the uncooked casserole (before baking) for up to 2 months. Wrap well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until heated through. Add crispy onion strings in the last 5-10 minutes for that crunch!

Make-Ahead Tip: You can assemble Ina Garten’s Green Bean Casserole up to 2 days in advance. Just remember to tweak the baking time if cooking from cold!

What to Serve with Ina Garten’s Green Bean Casserole

Elevate your dining experience by pairing wonderful dishes that complement the creamy delight of your casserole and create a balanced meal.

Roasted Turkey: This classic holiday dish offers a savory, juicy contrast to the casserole’s creamy texture, making every bite satisfying.
Glazed Ham: Sweet and smoky, glazed ham brings a delicious flavor that pairs perfectly with the earthiness of the casserole. The textures play well together, creating a delightful ensemble on your plate.
Mixed Greens Salad: A refreshing salad with tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the casserole, adding brightness and crunch, making for a wonderfully balanced meal.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce adds a burst of flavor that beautifully contrasts the creamy casserole, enhancing every bite with a pop of freshness.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these breadsticks are a perfect accompaniment to the casserole, allowing you to soak up that irresistible mushroom sauce.
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: These comforting potatoes add another layer of richness while their creamy texture mirrors the green bean casserole, creating a decadent duo.
Light White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio can enhance the meal, with crisp acidity refreshing your palate between bites of the rich casserole.
Pumpkin Pie: End your meal on a sweet note with a slice of spiced pumpkin pie. Its warmth and comforting flavors provide a delightful contrast to the savory elements of the dinner.

Ina Garten’s Green Bean Casserole Customizations

Feel free to make this comforting casserole truly your own with these delicious variations!

Bacon Boost: Incorporate crispy cooked bacon or pancetta for a savory, smoky flavor. It adds an irresistible richness that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Different Greens: Swap green beans for asparagus or broccoli for a fresh take, bringing seasonal vegetables to your table. Each substitute adds its unique texture and flavor, making the dish versatile for any occasion.
Dairy-Free Delight: Omit the cheese for a dairy-free option. You can use nutritional yeast to give a cheesy flavor without dairy. It’s a great way to cater to lactose sensitivities while keeping the dish delicious!
Mushroom Medley: Use a combination of mushrooms, like shiitake and cremini, for an enhanced umami experience. The diversity in texture and flavor makes the casserole even more enticing.
Nutty Crunch: Top with chopped pecans or walnuts instead of fried onion strings for a delightful crunch and extra nuttiness. This change adds depth and a unique twist to your casserole.
Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for a touch of heat. It creates a surprising kick that will leave your taste buds tingling and craving more.
Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh thyme or rosemary for an aromatic lift that elevates the whole dish. The fragrant herbs add a pop of freshness that complements the creamy flavors beautifully.
Lighter Option: Use low-fat or Greek yogurt instead of cream of mushroom soup for a lighter take on the classic flavor. This swap lowers calories while maintaining that creamy goodness.

Let your creativity shine with these variations, and don’t forget to check out our delectable Feta Cranberry Vinaigrette to accompany your casserole!

Ina Garten’s Green Bean Casserole Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting fresh green beans?
Absolutely! Choose bright green beans that are firm to the touch. They should snap easily when bent, indicating freshness. Avoid beans with dark spots or those that look limp, as these can indicate overripeness.

How should I store leftovers of Ina Garten’s Green Bean Casserole?
You can refrigerate the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure the casserole has cooled completely before sealing it tight to maintain its delicious flavors and avoid drying out.

Can I freeze Ina Garten’s Green Bean Casserole?
Yes, you can! I often recommend freezing the uncooked casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed!

What do I do if my casserole seems too watery?
If you find your casserole watery, it might be due to insufficiently cooked mushrooms. Ensure you sauté the mushrooms thoroughly until their moisture evaporates, as this prevents them from releasing excess liquid into the casserole as it bakes. If it’s too late, try to drain any excess liquid before serving.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
The more the merrier! You can assemble Ina Garten’s Green Bean Casserole up to 2 days in advance. Just cover it well and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it’s starting out cold.

Are there any allergens in this recipe I should be aware of?
Be mindful of any guests with dietary restrictions! This casserole contains dairy from butter, cream of mushroom soup, and Parmesan cheese. For a dairy-free version, you can replace these with plant-based alternatives. Always check ingredient labels to avoid any hidden allergens!