Wholesome Green Bean Casserole Formula

This Nutritious Green Bean Casserole captures all the deliciousness you adore from the traditional dish, but is crafted with healthy, real ingredients. Tender green beans combined with a homemade mushroom cream sauce and garnished with crispy onions make it the ideal side for any festive occasion!

This Nutritious Green Bean Casserole offers a lighter, more wholesome version of the classic comfort food that is creamy, satisfying, and incredibly delicious. While traditional recipes typically feature canned green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and fried onions, this version uses fresh green beans, a homemade mushroom cream sauce, and an oven-baked crispy onion topping. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a casual weeknight meal, this healthier option is just as delightful without the guilt!

Why You’ll Adore this Recipe

• Healthy ingredients – this casserole is made with fresh green beans, a homemade mushroom sauce (not canned) and crowned with fresh crispy onions.
• Decadent and creamy – the flavorful mushroom sauce has a rich taste and the right light texture that elegantly envelops the green beans without being overly heavy.
• Adaptable – this recipe can easily be modified to be dairy-free, gluten-free, or vegan with a few straightforward substitutions.
• Ideal for holidays – this classic dish is perfect for your holiday table, whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, or simply preparing a comforting dinner at home.

Ingredients You Will Require

• green beans – you will need 24 oz of fresh green beans or French green beans (also referred to as haricot verts) for this recipe. No canned green beans here!
• mushrooms – these contribute umami richness and a hearty texture to the sauce. I particularly enjoy baby bella mushrooms, but you can opt for cremini or white button mushrooms.
• flour – I used all-purpose flour to help thicken the creamy sauce. You may also substitute with gluten-free flour or oat flour.
• half and half – adds creaminess to the sauce. You could also use full-fat coconut milk for a lighter option or even heavy cream if that’s what you have on hand.
• chicken broth – forms the base of the mushroom sauce which enhances the flavor. Alternatively, vegetable broth or chicken stock could be used.
• butter – essential for sautéing the mushrooms and giving them that golden hue and flavor.
• garlic – fresh chopped garlic or minced garlic from a jar can be used.
• fresh thyme – lends an aromatic and herby flavor that beautifully complements the other ingredients.
• seasonings – a mix of onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
• onions – you’ll need 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced to create the crispy onion topping. Trust me, they far surpass store-bought fried onions!
• breadcrumbs – I used whole grain panko breadcrumbs to create a crispy topping, but gluten-free panko breadcrumbs work too.
• parmesan cheese – enhances flavor and allows for reduced breadcrumbs in the crispy onion topping.

How to Create Green Bean Casserole

1. Create the crispy onion topping. Place the sliced onions into a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Toss to ensure the onions are thoroughly coated. Incorporate the flour, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and salt, tossing everything together.
2. Bake the onions. Spread the onion mixture onto a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper and lightly coated with nonstick spray. Bake at 450 degrees F for 25 to 30 minutes, tossing halfway through, until golden and crispy. Once cooked, set the onions aside and lower the oven temperature to 375 degrees F.
3. Boil the green beans. As the onions bake, fill a large pot with water, adding a tablespoon of salt. Bring to a boil, then introduce the fresh green beans. Blanch for 5 to 6 minutes until tender, then drain in a colander.
4. Sauté the mushrooms. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then add the garlic and diced mushrooms. Sauté the mushrooms for a few minutes until soft, then stir in the flour.
5. Prepare the sauce. Pour in the half and half and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Stir continuously to eliminate lumps, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens. Stir in the salt, pepper, onion powder, and fresh thyme leaves then remove from heat.
6. Combine for the casserole. Transfer the green beans to a 9×13 casserole dish that’s been coated with nonstick spray. Pour the mushroom cream sauce evenly over the green beans. Sprinkle with the crispy onions and any remaining crunchy breadcrumbs from the sheet pan.
7. Bake the casserole. Bake at 375 degrees F for 15 to 20 minutes, until heated through. Serve and enjoy!

Advice for Creating the Best Green Bean Casserole

• Utilize fresh green beans – fresh green beans provide superior texture, flavor, and nutrition compared to canned varieties. Trim the ends and blanch just until tender-crisp to avoid a soggy consistency.
• Ensure to blanch the beans – this ensures you’ll have tender yet crisp green beans that maintain their vibrant color without becoming mushy!
• Don’t skip browning the mushrooms – allow the mushrooms to cook until they release moisture and turn golden. This step develops deep, rich flavor and prevents the sauce from tasting bland.
• Prepare ahead of time – this casserole is an excellent make-ahead dish! Simply assemble everything except the topping, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking for a stress-free holiday.

Preparation and Storage

• To Store: Store leftovers in a sealed, airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This casserole can also be prepared up to 24 hours in advance; just add the crispy onion topping before baking.
• To Freeze: Assemble the casserole but skip baking. Place it in a freezer-safe container, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Ideal for a hassle-free holiday!
• To Thaw: Allow the casserole to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. When you’re prepared to bake, let it reach room temperature while the oven preheats, then add the crispy onion topping and follow baking directions. If you froze individual servings, let those thaw and warm in the microwave until heated through.

Additional Holiday Side Dishes

Enjoy this Nutritious Green Bean Casserole! If you love it as much as we do, please leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review below and don’t forget to tag me on Instagram using the hashtag #eatyourselfskinny!