Easy Stovetop Green Bean Casserole Recipe

This stovetop green bean casserole recipe is designed for those who crave the classic holiday side dish but don't have the oven space. It's a simple, savory dish that combines fresh green beans with a creamy mushroom sauce and crispy fried onions. The result is a rich and hearty casserole that pairs perfectly with any main course.

Photos of Stovetop Green Bean Casserole Recipe

For this recipe, you might need to seek out crimini mushrooms. They are similar to white button mushrooms but have a deeper, earthier flavor that enhances the savory taste of the casserole. You might also not have French's crispy onions at home. They're usually found in the canned vegetable aisle and add a nice crunch to the dish.

Essential Ingredients for Stovetop Green Bean Casserole

French string beans: These are tender and slightly sweet beans that will hold their shape in the casserole.

Unsalted butter: Used to saute the mushrooms and create a rich flavor base.

Crimini mushrooms: They add a deep, earthy flavor to the casserole.

Garlic: Adds a sharp and aromatic flavor.

Kosher salt: Used to season the dish.

Coarse ground black pepper: It provides a slight heat to the dish.

Flour: It thickens the sauce.

Vegetable broth: Adds depth and complexity to the sauce.

Dijon mustard: It gives the sauce a tangy kick.

Heavy cream: It makes the sauce rich and creamy.

Sour cream: Adds a tangy richness to the sauce.

French's crispy onions: These provide crunch and a burst of onion flavor.

One reader, Cody Putnam says:

This stovetop green bean casserole recipe is a game-changer! The creamy sauce and crispy onions take it to the next level. The flavors are rich and comforting, and it's so easy to make. It's a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their green bean casserole game!

Cody Putnam

Techniques for Making Stovetop Green Bean Casserole

How to blanch green beans: Briefly cook the green beans in boiling water, then immediately transfer them to ice water to stop the cooking process. This helps the green beans retain their vibrant color and crisp texture.

How to sear mushrooms: Cook the mushrooms in a hot skillet with butter until they are browned and have a rich, savory flavor.

How to make a roux: Combine butter and flour in a skillet and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth. This will help thicken the sauce for the casserole.

How to thicken a sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer and reduce until it reaches the desired consistency, stirring occasionally to prevent lumps from forming.

How to top with crispy onions: Sprinkle the crispy onions over the casserole just before serving to add a crunchy texture and savory flavor. If the onions need to be crisper, they can be briefly microwaved before adding to the casserole.

How To Make Stovetop Green Bean Casserole

Cook a tasty side with this green bean casserole in a creamy sauce made with broth and sour cream. It’s made with mushrooms and finished with crispy onions.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Prepare a large bowl of ice water.

1. Add green beans to a large pot of boiling water and cook for 3 minutes. Then strain the green beans into the bowl of ice water.

1. Add butter and mushrooms to a large skillet on medium-high heat and cook for about 6 to 8 minutes until seared and browned.

1. Add in garlic, salt, and pepper and stir.

1. Add in flour and stir for about 30 seconds until flour is absorbed.

1. Add in broth, Dijon mustard, heavy cream, and sour cream, and whisk well until the sauce is smooth.

1. Let cook for 6 to 8 minutes until thickened then add in the green beans to coat.

1. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until sauce is a bit more thickened and beans are well coated.

1. Top with crispy onions. (To make them a bit crispier, microwave them on a single layer for 20 seconds before adding to the pan).

Nutrition

- Calories: 310.90kcal

- Fat: 28.29g

- Saturated Fat: 17.25g

- Trans Fat: 0.23g

- Monounsaturated Fat: 7.71g

- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.21g

- Carbohydrates: 12.84g

- Fiber: 2.66g

- Sugar: 5.94g

- Protein: 4.53g

- Cholesterol: 89.54mg

- Sodium: 370.20mg

- Calcium: 112.31mg

- Potassium: 445.08mg

- Iron: 1.12mg

- Vitamin A: 306.90µg

- Vitamin C: 11.21mg

Helpful Technique for Enhancing Flavor

When preparing the green beans, ensure they are blanched correctly to retain their vibrant color and crunch. Blanching involves boiling the beans briefly and then immediately plunging them into ice water to halt the cooking process. This technique not only preserves the beans' color, but also their nutrients and crisp texture. It's crucial not to overcook the beans during this step, as they will continue to cook later when added to the sauce.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that can be made in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup time.

Batch cooking: Make larger quantities and freeze leftovers for quick and convenient meals later.

Kitchen organization: Keep your kitchen tidy and organized to easily locate ingredients and utensils while cooking.

Efficient multitasking: Plan and execute tasks simultaneously to maximize productivity in the kitchen.

Invest in tools: Use kitchen gadgets and tools to simplify food preparation and cooking processes.

Follow the recipe: Read through the entire recipe before starting to ensure a smooth and efficient cooking experience.

Streamlined cleanup: Clean as you go to minimize the post-cooking cleanup time.

Substitute Ingredients For Stovetop Green Bean Casserole Recipe

french string beans - Substitute with haricots verts: Haricots verts are slender French green beans that are similar in flavor and texture to the traditional string beans.
unsalted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter and adds a unique flavor to the dish.
crimini mushrooms - Substitute with shiitake mushrooms: Shiitake mushrooms have a rich, earthy flavor and a meaty texture, which can add depth to the casserole.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, sweeter flavor compared to garlic and can complement the dish well.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt, providing a similar level of salinity to the dish.
coarse ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor compared to black pepper and can blend seamlessly into the casserole.
flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can be used as a thickening agent in place of flour and is a gluten-free alternative.
vegetable broth - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth can add a savory depth of flavor to the casserole, similar to vegetable broth.
dijon mustard - Substitute with whole grain mustard: Whole grain mustard provides a similar tangy flavor and adds texture to the dish.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can be used as a dairy-free alternative to heavy cream, adding a rich and creamy texture to the casserole.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can provide a tangy and creamy element to the casserole, similar to sour cream.
french's crispy onions - Substitute with homemade crispy onions: Homemade crispy onions can be made by thinly slicing and frying onions until golden brown, providing a fresher and more flavorful alternative to store-bought crispy onions.

Presentation Tips for a Delicious Stovetop Casserole

Elevate the green beans: Arrange the green beans in a neat and organized manner on the plate to showcase their vibrant color and freshness.
Create a creamy base: Use a circular motion to spread the creamy mushroom sauce on the plate, ensuring it complements the green beans without overpowering them.
Garnish with crispy onions: Sprinkle the crispy onions over the green beans and sauce, adding a delightful crunch and enhancing the visual appeal of the dish.
Incorporate a touch of elegance: Consider adding a drizzle of high-quality truffle oil to impart a luxurious aroma and elevate the overall flavor profile.
Emphasize precision: Pay attention to the placement of each component, ensuring that the dish exudes sophistication and attention to detail.
Utilize negative space: Allow the plate to breathe by strategically leaving areas uncovered, creating a visually striking presentation that captivates the eye.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Green Bean Casserole

Large pot: This is used for boiling the green beans.
Skillet: The skillet is used for cooking the mushrooms and creating the creamy sauce.
Whisk: A whisk is used to combine the ingredients for the creamy sauce.
Strainer: This is used to strain the green beans after blanching them.
Microwave: The microwave is used to crisp up the onions before adding them to the casserole.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

Let the green bean casserole cool completely to room temperature before storing or freezing.
For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled casserole to an airtight container or cover the skillet tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To freeze the casserole, follow these steps:
1. Transfer the cooled casserole to a freezer-safe container or a large resealable freezer bag.
2. If using a container, make sure to leave about 1/2 inch of space at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
3. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
4. Place in the freezer and store for up to 3 months.
When ready to reheat the frozen casserole, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
To reheat, transfer the thawed casserole to a skillet or saucepan and warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through and bubbly. You may need to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to thin out the sauce if it has thickened too much during freezing.
If the casserole looks dry, you can also stir in a little extra heavy cream or sour cream to restore its creamy texture.
Top with fresh crispy onions before serving for the best texture and flavor.

How To Reheat Leftover Green Bean Casserole

To reheat leftover stovetop green bean casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the casserole to an oven-safe dish, cover it with aluminum foil, and bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking to crisp up the french's crispy onions topping.
Another option is to reheat the casserole on the stovetop. Place the leftover casserole in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the casserole is heated through and the green beans are tender. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to thin it out.
For a quick and easy method, reheat individual portions of the casserole in the microwave. Place a serving in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Stir the casserole halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
If you find that the french's crispy onions have lost their crunch after reheating, you can refresh them by placing a handful of crispy onions on a baking sheet and baking them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 3-5 minutes or until they become crispy again. Sprinkle the refreshed onions over the reheated casserole before serving.
To maintain the best texture and flavor of the leftover casserole, avoid reheating it multiple times. Instead, reheat only the portion you plan to consume and store the remaining casserole in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Interesting Trivia About Green Bean Casserole

The stovetop green bean casserole is a popular Thanksgiving side dish in the United States. It was created in 1955 by the Campbell Soup Company, and it has since become a staple in many American households during the holiday season. The dish was originally intended to be a way to promote the company's cream of mushroom soup, and it quickly gained popularity due to its simplicity and delicious flavor. Today, it is a beloved comfort food that is enjoyed by many families across the country.

Budget-Friendly: Is This Recipe Economical?

This stovetop green bean casserole recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The use of simple and affordable ingredients like green beans, mushrooms, and sour cream makes it budget-friendly. The dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a great addition to any meal. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $12-$15, making it an economical choice. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Is This Green Bean Casserole Healthy?

The stovetop green bean casserole recipe is a delicious and comforting dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to several ingredients. The recipe includes:

Heavy cream and sour cream, which are high in saturated fat and calories
Butter, another source of saturated fat
Crispy onions, which are likely deep-fried and high in unhealthy fats

While the recipe does include some nutritious ingredients like green beans and mushrooms, the overall dish is quite rich and calorie-dense.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace the heavy cream with a lower-fat alternative, such as evaporated milk or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt
Use a reduced-fat sour cream or replace it with plain Greek yogurt for a protein boost and lower fat content
Reduce the amount of butter used or substitute with a healthier oil like olive oil
Instead of using store-bought crispy onions, try making your own by thinly slicing onions, tossing them with a little oil, and baking until crispy
Increase the proportion of green beans and mushrooms to create a more vegetable-focused dish
Experiment with additional seasonings like thyme, rosemary, or smoked paprika to add flavor without relying on excessive fat or salt

Editor's Opinion on This Stovetop Casserole Recipe

This stovetop green bean casserole recipe is a delightful twist on the classic dish. The combination of fresh green beans, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy, flavorful sauce creates a dish that is both comforting and elegant. The addition of crispy onions on top adds a satisfying crunch and depth of flavor. The cooking method on the stovetop allows for a quicker preparation without sacrificing any of the deliciousness. It's a perfect side dish for any occasion and is sure to impress your guests with its rich and savory taste.

Enhance Your Stovetop Green Bean Casserole Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives, topped with a dollop of butter.

Roasted Carrots: Tender roasted carrots glazed with honey and sprinkled with a touch of fresh thyme for a burst of flavor.

Garlic Bread: Slices of crusty garlic bread brushed with olive oil and sprinkled with parmesan cheese, then toasted to perfection.

Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits tossed in a light honey-lime dressing, topped with a sprinkle of mint leaves for a pop of color.

Pumpkin Soup: Velvety smooth pumpkin soup infused with warm spices and a drizzle of cream, perfect for a cozy autumn evening.

Similar Casserole Recipes to Try

Savory Roasted Vegetable Medley: Roast a variety of your favorite vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper for a delicious and healthy side dish.

Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta: Cook up some tender chicken and toss it with al dente pasta in a rich and creamy alfredo sauce for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing: Combine a variety of fresh fruits such as berries, melon, and citrus, and drizzle with a zesty honey-lime dressing for a refreshing and light dessert or side dish.

Hearty Beef Stew with Root Vegetables: Simmer tender chunks of beef with hearty root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and parsnips in a flavorful broth for a comforting and filling stew.

Decadent Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a rich and gooey chocolate lava cake with a molten center that oozes out when you dig in for a luxurious dessert.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Green Bean Casserole

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Caprese Skewers: Impress your guests with these elegant Caprese skewers, featuring fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with a balsamic glaze. A refreshing and colorful starter for any gathering.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This elegant dessert is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner at home.

Berry Parfait: Layer juicy mixed berries with creamy Greek yogurt and crunchy granola for a refreshing and healthy dessert option. The combination of sweet and tart flavors makes this parfait a delightful treat for any time of day.

Why trust this Stovetop Green Bean Casserole Recipe:

This stovetop green bean casserole recipe offers a delightful twist on the classic dish, featuring fresh french string beans and earthy crimini mushrooms. The creamy sauce, made with vegetable broth, dijon mustard, and heavy cream, adds a rich and savory flavor. The addition of sour cream provides a tangy kick, while the crispy onions on top add a satisfying crunch. With a perfect balance of textures and flavors, this recipe is sure to impress and elevate any meal.

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FAQ:

Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans as a substitute for fresh ones. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before using in the recipe.

Can I use a different type of mushroom?

Absolutely! You can use any type of mushroom you prefer or have on hand. Feel free to experiment with different varieties to find your favorite flavor combination.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. However, I recommend adding the crispy onions just before serving to maintain their crunchiness.

Can I use a different type of broth?

Certainly! You can use chicken or beef broth if you prefer or if that's what you have available. The choice of broth can add a different depth of flavor to the dish.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

To make this recipe vegetarian, you can use vegetable broth and replace the heavy cream and sour cream with non-dairy alternatives. For a vegan version, use plant-based butter and non-dairy cream and sour cream options.