Ina Garten Green Bean Casserole

Let’s Talk Green Bean Casserole

Ah, the aroma of a home-cooked meal wafting through the air as family gathers around the table—there’s nothing quite like it. One dish that has become a staple in many households, especially during the holidays, is Ina Garten’s Green Bean Casserole. This delightful recipe presents a fresh spin on the classic comfort food, combining tender green beans, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy sauce, all topped with crispy onion strings. Whether you’re looking to impress guests during a festive gathering or simply want a comforting side for a weeknight dinner, this casserole recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love Making It

What sets this Green Bean Casserole apart from the rest? First and foremost, it’s incredibly simple to make while still being rich in flavor. With only a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. This casserole not only boasts the comforting flavors we all love but also features fresh green beans, offering a healthier option compared to some of the traditional recipes.

"This green bean casserole is a game changer! I love that it uses fresh ingredients, and my family couldn’t get enough. It will definitely be on our holiday table from now on!"

Casseroles like this one are perfect for busy weeknights or holiday feasts. They can be prepared ahead of time and require minimal fuss when it’s time to serve, making your life a little easier during those hectic evenings or special gatherings.

How to Prepare This Recipe

When it comes to making Ina Garten’s Green Bean Casserole, you’ll find the process straightforward and rewarding. The recipe includes simple steps that yield a deliciously creamy and crunchy dish. Here’s how it goes:

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees.
2. Prepare to sauté your vegetables.
3. Cook your green beans in broth until tender yet crisp.
4. Mix all the luscious ingredients together.
5. Bake and let the magic happen!

With that basic overview, let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need.

Gather Your Ingredients

For this delectable casserole, here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup onion (finely diced)
• 8-ounce package button mushrooms (sliced)
• 3 cups fresh green beans (ends removed and cut in half)
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 (10.75-ounce) can low-sodium cream of mushroom soup
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Crispy onion strings for topping

Feel free to experiment with low-fat cream of mushroom soup or even homemade recipes if you’re feeling adventurous.

Step-by-Step Directions

Now that you’re all set with your ingredients, here’s how to put it all together:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the diced onions and sliced mushrooms to the skillet, sautéing until they are just tender. Stir occasionally.
4. Incorporate the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes before removing the skillet from heat.
5. In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil and add the green beans. Cook for about 8 minutes until they are crisp-tender, then completely drain them.
6. Prepare a 2-quart baking dish by spraying it with cooking spray.
7. In a large bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, sautéed onion and mushroom mixture, drained green beans, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until well combined.
8. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and top with crispy onion strings.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the casserole is heated through.

Tips for Serving

To elevate your green bean casserole experience, consider these serving suggestions:

• Pair it with roasted turkey or honey-glazed ham for a festive flair.
• Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes or cornbread for a classic comfort meal.
• Add a light salad to balance the richness of the casserole.

Keeping Ina Garten Green Bean Casserole Fresh Longer

Storing leftovers properly ensures you can enjoy this dish even after the main event. Here are some tips:

• Refrigerate any uneaten casserole within two hours of serving. Store it in an airtight container.
• It will remain fresh and delicious for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
• Freezing is an option too! Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Expert Advice

Here are some pro tips to ensure your casserole is the best it can be:

• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Fresh green beans and real butter make a noticeable difference.
• Avoid overcooking the green beans during the initial boil; you want them to retain some crunch.
• Feel free to adjust seasoning to suit your taste; a pinch of nutmeg can add a lovely flavor twist!

Creative Twists

If you want to shake things up a bit, here are some variations to consider:

• Swap the Parmesan for cheddar cheese for a richer, cheesier flavor.
• Add cooked bacon or sautéed sausage for a meaty version.
• For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and use a cream alternative like cashew cream.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance, just leave the crispy onion topping off until right before baking.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover casserole?

Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees until warmed through for the best texture, or microwave for a quicker option.

Can I use frozen green beans instead?

While fresh beans provide the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen for convenience. Just make sure they’re thawed and drained adequately to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a comforting meal, Ina Garten’s Green Bean Casserole is a delectable option that brings warmth and flavor to your table. So gather those ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and savor this delightful dish!

Ina Garten’s Green Bean Casserole

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• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A fresh take on the classic Green Bean Casserole, featuring tender green beans, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy sauce topped with crispy onion strings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup onion (finely diced)
• 8-ounce package button mushrooms (sliced)
• 3 cups fresh green beans (ends removed and cut in half)
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 (10.75-ounce) can low-sodium cream of mushroom soup
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Crispy onion strings for topping

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the diced onions and sliced mushrooms to the skillet, sautéing until they are just tender.
4. Incorporate the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes before removing the skillet from heat.
5. In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil and add the green beans. Cook for about 8 minutes until they are crisp-tender, then drain completely.
6. Prepare a 2-quart baking dish by spraying it with cooking spray.
7. In a large bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, sautéed onion and mushroom mixture, drained green beans, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until well combined.
8. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and top with crispy onion strings.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the casserole is heated through.

Notes

Can be prepared a day in advance; just leave off the crispy onion topping until right before baking.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: green bean casserole, holiday side dish, vegetarian comfort food