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Green Bean Casserole: Best Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Recipe

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A creamy, stable green bean casserole with a crispy onion topping that stays crunchy. This make-ahead friendly side dish solves the common problem of soggy casseroles with a rich, velvety sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds Fresh or Frozen Green Beans
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
  • 3 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth (low-sodium)
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon White Pepper
  • 1.5 cups Fried Onions (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 medium Shallots, thinly sliced (for homemade topping)
  • Oil for frying (avocado or canola)
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. If using fresh beans, blanch in boiling salted water for 3-4 minutes, then plunge into an ice bath. If using frozen, thaw and pat dry thoroughly.
  2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk constantly for 2 minutes until light blonde and nutty.
  3. Slowly whisk in chicken broth, then add heavy cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and white pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce coats the back of a spoon.
  4. Add the green beans to the sauce and stir to coat. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
  5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread evenly.
  6. Sprinkle fried onions evenly over the top, pressing gently to adhere.
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbling and onions are golden. Cover with foil if onions brown too quickly.
  8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For make-ahead, assemble completely, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to baking time if starting from cold. Ensure beans are very dry to prevent a soupy sauce. Use white pepper to keep the sauce visually white.

Nutrition

Keywords: green bean casserole, thanksgiving side dish, make-ahead recipe, easy casserole, crispy onions, holiday cooking

Find it online: https://islatable.com/green-bean-casserole-best-easy-make-ahead-thanksgiving-recipe/