This Skillet Green Bean Casserole is a quick and tasty twist on a classic dish! It’s made with fresh green beans, creamy sauce, and topped with crunchy onions for that perfect bite.
I love how simple it is to whip up in just one skillet! Plus, the warm, cheesy goodness makes it a favorite for family dinners. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this delicious side! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are best for this dish, as they offer a great crunch. If fresh isn’t available, you can substitute with frozen green beans, but avoid the canned ones for texture.
Butter: I like using unsalted butter for cooking to control the salt. If you’re dairy-free, use olive oil or a vegan butter alternative.
Mushrooms: White or cremini mushrooms work well here. If you’re not a fan, you can skip them or swap in sautéed bell peppers for a different flavor.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free choice. The richness is key, so avoid low-fat versions if possible!
Crispy Fried Onions: While store-bought is a convenient option, homemade fried onions can add a delicious crunch. Just slice onions thinly, coat them in flour, and fry until golden!
How Can I Ensure My Green Beans Stay Crisp?
To keep your green beans vibrant and crisp, blanch them first. This involves boiling them briefly, then shocking them in ice water. This method enhances their color and stops the cooking process, resulting in a perfect tender-crisp texture.
- Boil in salted water for just 3-4 minutes.
- Immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water for a few minutes.
- Drain well before adding to the skillet. This step prevents mushy beans!
What’s the Best Way to Make Creamy Sauce Without Clumping?
To achieve a smooth sauce, gradually stir in the heavy cream after sautéing the vegetables. Make sure your skillet isn’t too hot when you add it. If it is, the cream might curdle.
- Keep your heat at medium-low when adding cream and sour cream.
- Stir constantly to combine. If it looks a bit thick, add a splash of vegetable broth or water.
- Let the sauce simmer gently to thicken it without boiling.
These tips will help you master this skillet green bean casserole, making it a family favorite! Enjoy cooking!
Skillet Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and halved
- 2 tbsp butter
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Skillet Green Bean Casserole takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes getting the ingredients ready and then 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and delightful dish that brings the flavors of a classic casserole to your table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Green Beans:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, carefully add the trimmed green beans. Cook them for 3-4 minutes until they turn bright green and are just tender. This process, called blanching, helps keep their color and crunch!
After boiling, drain the beans and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This step is key for maintaining that crisp texture. Drain again after a few minutes and set the green beans aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent. Then, toss in the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Continue to cook the mixture, stirring often, for another 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and nicely browned. The aroma will be fantastic!
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Now it’s time to create the delicious sauce. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Allow the sauce to simmer gently, stirring frequently, until it thickens slightly—this should take about 3-5 minutes. If it looks too thick, feel free to add a splash more cream or a bit of broth.
4. Combine Everything:
Gently fold the blanched green beans into the creamy sauce, ensuring they’re evenly coated. If you’re using cheddar cheese, this is the moment to stir it in until it’s melted and beautifully combined.
5. Add the Toppings:
To finish off the casserole, sprinkle the crispy fried onions on top. If you’d like those onions to be extra crispy and the entire dish heated through, pop the skillet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, keeping an eye on it to avoid burning.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Once nicely browned, take the skillet out of the oven and serve warm straight from the skillet. Your cozy, creamy Skillet Green Bean Casserole is ready to enjoy! It’s perfect for family dinners and holiday gatherings.
Bon appétit! Enjoy your delicious homemade casserole filled with flavor and warmth.
Can I Use Canned Green Beans Instead of Fresh?
While fresh green beans provide the best texture and flavor, you can use canned green beans in a pinch. Just rinse and drain them before adding to the skillet, but be sure to reduce the cooking time since they’re already cooked.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make this casserole dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream and sour cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream. Use a dairy-free cheese alternative for the optional cheddar and ensure the butter is replaced with a non-dairy spread.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the creamy sauce and green beans in advance, then store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat in the skillet, add the crispy onions, and broil for a few minutes until hot.
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
If you want to switch things up, consider using crispy bacon bits, sautéed breadcrumbs, or chopped nuts as alternative toppings. These will add a different flavor and texture to your casserole!
