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Light grey plate with serving of green bean casserole. Two silver forks.

Green Bean Casserole (without mushroom soup)

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With its crunchy green beans, creamy white sauce, gooey cheese, and crispy onions, this classic dish checks all the boxes for a crowd-pleasing addition to your holiday table. Plus, it's quick to make and can be prepared ahead, making it a stress-free option for busy cooks.

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Units
  • 3 cups green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/2 cup fried onion (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 cup grated cheddar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/3 teaspoon pepper
  • Pinch of ground nutmeg

Instructions

  1. If making crispy onions from scratch: cut the onion into thin slices. Add a few tablespoons of oil to a large skillet and add the onions when hot. Salt them and make sure they're spread out. Cook over medium-high heat until browned. Move them around a few times so they brown evenly, but don't touch them too much. Blot on several layers of paper towels.
  2. Preheat the oven to 375°F/190°C.
  3. If using fresh green beans, cook them in a large pot with abundant water and salt until al dente (crisp, not too soft). Drain under cold water and reserve. You can put them in a large bowl of ice water to help maintain the green color. 
  4. Melt butter in a large skillet. Sprinkle the flour and stir with a whisk until well integrated. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly until you have a shiny, lightly colored paste.
  5. Slowly pour in the milk while you stir over medium heat. It's important to incorporate the milk as you add it. If lumps form, break them up with a spatula. You need a smooth, lump-free sauce. 
  6. Add salt, pepper, garlic and nutmeg. Mix well. 
  7. Place green beans, 2/3 cup grated cheddar, and fried onion (reserve 3 tablespoons) in a bowl.
  8. Add white sauce to the green bean mixture and mix with a spatula.
  9. Transfer to an 8-inch inch baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes.
  10. Add the remaining cheese on top and bake for 10 more minutes. Top with the remaining onions and bake for 10 more minutes, until crisp and golden brown. 
  11. Serve immediately.
  12. Refrigerate leftovers, covered, in the refrigerator. Reheat before eating. 

Notes

  • Make in advance: assemble and refrigerate, covered, until ready to bake. When it's time to serve, pop it in a preheated oven and bake until golden. 
  • Spicy: add chili pepper flakes, chili powder or smoked paprika to the white sauce. 
  • Creamier and richer: use half the amount of cream and substitute the rest for cream. 
  • Author: Paula Montenegro
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Side dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American