This Skillet Green Bean Casserole is a warm and comforting dish. It’s made with fresh green beans, creamy sauce, and topped with crunchy fried onions!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Green Beans: These are essential for that crisp texture. If you’re in a pinch, you can use frozen green beans, just make sure to thaw and drain them first for the best results!
Mushrooms: I prefer using button or cremini mushrooms because they have great flavor. If mushrooms aren’t your thing, try zucchini or bell peppers for a different veggie option.
Heavy Cream: This gives the casserole a rich texture. If you’re looking for a lighter version, opt for half-and-half or even a plant-based cream for a dairy-free option.
Fried Onions: They add an amazing crunch on top! You can find them at grocery stores. Alternatively, you could make your own by thinly slicing onions, coating them in flour, and frying until crispy!
How do I cook green beans perfectly without them getting mushy?
The key to perfectly cooked green beans is boiling and shocking. Here’s what to do:
- Bring salted water to a rolling boil before adding your green beans.
- Blanch them for only 3-4 minutes until they’re bright green and slightly tender.
- Immediately plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking process. This helps keep them vibrant and crispy!
Following these steps will give you that perfect texture to complement the creamy sauce in your casserole! Enjoy cooking!
Skillet Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tsp soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 cups crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Skillet Green Bean Casserole requires about 15 minutes of prep time, plus around 15 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll be looking at about 30 minutes to get this delicious 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. Once boiling, add in the fresh green beans and cook for about 3-4 minutes. They should be bright green and just tender. Drain the beans and immediately plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking process. After a few minutes, drain them again and set aside.
2. Sauté the Mushrooms:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté them for about 7-8 minutes or until they have released their moisture and are starting to brown. The aroma will be fantastic!
3. Add Garlic and Cream:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Then, stir in the heavy cream and broth. If you’re using soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for that extra depth of flavor, add it now. Let everything simmer gently until the sauce thickens slightly, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
4. Combine the Green Beans:
Add your blanched green beans back into the skillet and toss them to coat with the creamy mushroom sauce evenly. Season to taste with salt and pepper, ensuring the beans are well flavored.
5. Add Parmesan and Fried Onions:
If you’d like, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the green beans and gently mix it in. Then, you can remove the skillet from heat. Generously top with the crispy fried onions for that delightful crunch!
6. Serve Warm:
Your Skillet Green Bean Casserole is now ready to enjoy! Serve it warm right from the skillet and delight in the creamy, crunchy textures. Perfect for holidays or any meal!
Can I Use Canned Green Beans for This Recipe?
Absolutely, you can use canned green beans if you’re short on time! Just be sure to drain and rinse them well to reduce excess sodium. Add them to the skillet in the last few minutes of cooking to warm through, since they’re already cooked.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! To make it dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with a plant-based cream like coconut cream or cashew cream. You can also skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative for a similar flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream to revitalize the sauce if needed.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or even carrots. Just be sure to cook them until tender before tossing them with the green beans for a colorful and nutritious dish!