This Skillet Green Bean Casserole is a tasty twist on the classic dish! With fresh green beans, creamy sauce, and crunchy topping, it’s comfort food at its best!
I love making this recipe in one pan—it means less cleanup! Perfect for family dinners or gatherings when you want something warm and cozy. Grab a spoon! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are a must for this dish. If they aren’t available, you can use frozen green beans instead. Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking for the best results!
Mushrooms: I like to use cremini mushrooms for a deeper flavor. However, white button mushrooms work just fine. If you’re not a fan, try using diced bell peppers or chopped pecans for extra crunch.
Half-and-Half or Cream: Half-and-half gives a nice creamy texture, but if you’re looking to lighten it up, you can swap in milk or unsweetened almond milk. Just keep in mind the sauce may be thinner.
Crispy Fried Onions: Store-bought fried onions are super convenient, but homemade ones can elevate the dish. To make your own, just slice onions thinly, toss them in flour, and fry until golden. It’s worth the extra effort!
How Do I Get the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
Getting the sauce just right is crucial for a delicious casserole. Follow these steps to achieve that creamy, thick texture:
- Start by cooking the flour with the mushrooms. This removes the raw flour taste and helps thicken the sauce effectively.
- When adding your broth and cream, do it slowly while whisking continuously. This prevents lumps from forming.
- Keep stirring and cook until the sauce is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon; this usually takes 3-5 minutes.
With these tips, you’ll have a velvety sauce that perfectly binds the casserole ingredients together!
How to Make Skillet Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (white button or cremini work well)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce (optional, for added flavor)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1½ cups crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious skillet green bean casserole takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll have a lovely dish ready in no time, with all the traditional flavors you love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Green Beans:
Start by blanching your fresh green beans. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the green beans. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, until they’re bright green and a little tender. Then, drain the beans and quickly transfer them to an ice bath (a bowl of ice water) to stop the cooking. Drain again and set the green beans aside.
2. Cook the Mushrooms and Aromatics:
In a large cast-iron skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until they soften. Then, toss in the sliced mushrooms and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are browned and their moisture has evaporated.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Now, sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture. Stir it around to coat the mushrooms evenly. Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth, followed by the half-and-half (or cream). Keep stirring for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens up nicely. Add in the soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine the Green Beans:
Gently stir the blanched green beans into the creamy mushroom sauce. Allow them to cook together for about 2 more minutes, just until the beans are heated through and everything tastes wonderful together.
5. Add the Crispy Onions:
Top the mixture in the skillet with the crispy fried onions, making sure they’re evenly distributed for that extra crunch!
6. Serve:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve warm straight from the skillet and enjoy this comforting casserole with your family and friends!
This skillet green bean casserole combines traditional flavors in an easy, one-pan method. It’s perfect for any gathering, and everyone will love the creamy mushroom sauce topped with crispy onions!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans! Just be sure to thaw them completely before adding them to the skillet. You might want to slightly reduce the blanching time since they’re already partially cooked.
What Can I Substitute for Half-and-Half?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half with milk or unsweetened almond milk. Just keep in mind that the sauce may be thinner, so adjust the flour accordingly if needed!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the point of adding the crispy onions. Just cover and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, then add the crispy onions during the last few minutes for that perfect crunch!
