This Skillet Green Bean Casserole is a quick and tasty twist on the classic! Packed with fresh green beans, creamy sauce, and crunchy toppings, it’s perfect for any meal.
It’s super easy to make—just whip it up in one skillet! I love how this dish never fails to impress my family; they keep coming back for seconds all the time! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are best for this dish as they stay crisp. If you’re in a pinch, you can use frozen green beans; just be sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess water.
Mushrooms: I like using button or cremini mushrooms for their rich flavor. If mushrooms aren’t your thing, you could swap them out for chopped spinach or even canned mushrooms for convenience.
Heavy Cream: It gives a nice richness, but half-and-half or even a dairy-free cream alternative can work just fine, too! For a lighter option, try using low-fat milk with a bit of cornstarch for thickening.
French Fried Onions: These add that lovely crunch on top! If you want to skip them or have a homemade version, crush up some crispy fried shallots or even toasted breadcrumbs seasoned with garlic powder.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare the Green Beans?
Blanching the green beans is crucial to keep them bright and tender-crisp. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by boiling a large pot of salted water.
- Once boiling, add the trimmed green beans and let them cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Immediately plunge them into an ice bath to halt the cooking process. This keeps them vibrant green!
- After they cool, drain them again to remove excess moisture before adding them to your skillet.
This simple technique makes all the difference in your casserole’s texture. Enjoy your deliciously easy dish!
Skillet Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tbsp butter
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 1/3 cups French fried onions (store-bought)
- Optional: 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Skillet Green Bean Casserole will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. This includes blanching the green beans, cooking the mushrooms, and letting everything come together in one skillet. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blanch the Green Beans:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the trimmed green beans and let them blanch for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender. After that, drain the beans and immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain them again and set aside.
2. Sauté the Mushrooms:
In a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and start to brown—this should take about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Next, pour in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it reduce slightly for about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if you’re using it. Mix everything well until the sauce thickens a bit.
4. Combine and Top:
Add the blanched green beans to the skillet, tossing gently to coat them well with the creamy sauce. Sprinkle the French fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole. Cook for 2-3 more minutes until the onions are golden and the casserole is heated through.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve the casserole directly from the skillet for a rustic look, and enjoy this delightful dish with family and friends!
This Skillet Green Bean Casserole captures all the classic flavors you’re looking for, with a creamy mushroom sauce and a crunchy onion topping, all made conveniently in one skillet!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans! Just be sure to thaw and drain them completely before adding them to the skillet. This helps prevent extra moisture from making the casserole too watery.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you want a lighter option, half-and-half works well, and you can also use dairy-free cream alternatives. For a lower-fat version, low-fat milk with a bit of cornstarch can help thicken the sauce.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of adding the fried onions and then cover and refrigerate it for a day. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat it up and add the onions just before serving for that fresh crunch!