French Onion Green Bean Casserole is the perfect fusion of two beloved comfort foods: the rich, caramelized flavour of French onion soup and the creamy, crunchy goodness of classic green bean casserole. This dish transforms the traditional holiday side into a gourmet experience bursting with flavor and texture. The sweetness of slow-cooked onions, combined with tender green beans and a creamy sauce, makes every bite truly irresistible.
French Onion Green Bean Casserole:
Whether served during Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy Sunday dinner, this casserole brings elegance and warmth to the table. It’s an easy yet impressive dish that captures the essence of comfort food with a French-inspired flair. One spoonful, and you’ll see why it’s quickly becoming a modern holiday staple.
History:
The original green bean casserole was created in 1955 by Dorcas Reilly for Campbell’s Soup Company as a simple, affordable side dish using pantry staples. Over the decades, it became a beloved American holiday tradition. The French Onion variation elevates this humble dish by drawing inspiration from the classic French onion soup — known for its deep, caramelized flavour and cheesy topping. This modern version merges American nostalgia with French sophistication, creating a luxurious yet comforting casserole that pleases every crowd.
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French Onion Green Bean Casserole – A Gourmet Twist on a Classic Favorite
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and cut in half
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook Green Beans: Boil in salted water for 5 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
- Caramelize Onions: In a skillet, melt butter and olive oil. Add onions and cook on low heat for 20 minutes until golden brown. Add garlic and mushrooms; cook for 5 more minutes.
- Create Sauce: Sprinkle flour over onions. Stir, then add broth and cream. Simmer until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine: Mix green beans with the onion sauce. Stir in half of the cheese.
- Bake: Transfer to a baking dish. Top with remaining cheese and crispy onions. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Notes
- Use fresh green beans for the best texture and flavour.
- Caramelize onions slowly for a deep, rich taste.
- Substitute Gruyère with Swiss or mozzarella if preferred.
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth.
- Great make-ahead dish—assemble and refrigerate before baking.
Tips for French Onion:
- Add a splash of sherry or white wine while caramelizing onions for extra depth.
- Avoid overcooking green beans—they should stay slightly firm.
- Use crispy shallots instead of fried onions for a homemade touch.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cream sauce for warmth.
- Let it rest for 5–10 minutes after baking to set before serving.
FAQ’s for Bean Casserole:
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble up to one day before and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
Q: Can I use canned green beans?
Fresh or frozen green beans work best for texture, but canned can be used in a pinch.
Q: What cheese works best?
Gruyère adds authentic French flavor, but Swiss or Provolone are excellent alternatives.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, substitute butter and cream with plant-based alternatives and skip the cheese.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Conclusion:
French Onion Green Bean Casserole is the ultimate blend of rich French flavour and classic American comfort. With creamy sauce, caramelized onions, and a crispy topping, it’s the perfect side dish to impress guests during the holidays or any family gathering. Easy to prepare yet packed with flavor, this casserole deserves a spot on every dinner table.