Name: French Onion Green Bean Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: French-inspired
Ingredients: For the onions:; – 2 tablespoons butter; – 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced lengthwise; – Salt and ground black pepper to taste; – 1 tablespoon sherry vinegar; For the white sauce:; – 2 tablespoons butter; – 2 ½ tablespoons all-purpose flour; – 2 ½ cups milk; – 1 pinch ground nutmeg; – 1 pinch cayenne pepper to taste; – ¼ teaspoon ground thyme; For the topping:; – 2 tablespoons melted butter; – ⅔ cup panko bread crumbs; – 4 ounces shredded Gruyere cheese, divided; – ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese; – 2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed

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Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of French Onion Green Bean Casserole, a delicious twist on a classic dish. This recipe is not only incredibly tasty but also simple to make, making it a versatile option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

The combination of caramelized onions and creamy white sauce creates a unique and flavorful dish.
With minimal prep time, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings.
It can be made ahead of time and stored for later, making it ideal for meal prep.

Ingredient Notes:

For the onions:

Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the dish.
Yellow onions: When caramelized, they provide a sweet and savory taste.
Salt, pepper, and sherry vinegar: Enhance the overall flavor profile.

For the white sauce:

Butter and flour: Create a roux for a creamy base.
Milk: Adds richness and creaminess to the sauce.
Nutmeg, cayenne pepper, and thyme: Seasonings that elevate the dish.

For the topping:

Melted butter and panko bread crumbs: Create a crunchy topping.
Fresh green beans, Gruyere cheese, and Parmesan cheese: Complete the casserole with texture and flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Caramelize the onions with butter, salt, pepper, and sherry vinegar.
Prepare the white sauce by making a roux with butter and flour, then adding milk and seasonings.
Combine the green beans, Gruyere cheese, and white sauce in a baking dish.
Top with a mixture of melted butter, panko bread crumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
Bake until bubbly and golden brown.

Helpful Tips:

For extra flavor, consider adding crispy bacon or mushrooms to the casserole.
To make it vegetarian-friendly, swap the butter for olive oil and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Opt for fresh green beans over canned for a better texture.
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this casserole with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh? Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain them before using.
How can I make this dish gluten-free? Substitute gluten-free flour and bread crumbs for the traditional ingredients.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance? Yes, assemble the dish up to a day ahead and bake when ready to serve.
What can I use instead of Gruyere cheese? Swiss or Monterey Jack cheese are good alternatives.

Conclusion:

Experience the irresistible flavors of French Onion Green Bean Casserole by trying out this recipe. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress with its delicious taste and easy preparation. Share your feedback and enjoy every bite!

French Onion Green Bean Casserole

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Author: Emily
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6-8 servings
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: French-inspired
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This French Onion Green Bean Casserole is a delicious twist on a classic side dish, combining tender green beans with a creamy white sauce, caramelized onions, and a crispy breadcrumb topping.

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelized, about 20 minutes. Stir in the sherry vinegar and set aside.

3. In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Gradually whisk in the milk, nutmeg, cayenne pepper, and thyme. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.

4. Blanch the green beans in boiling salted water for 3-4 minutes, then drain and transfer to a large bowl. Add half of the Gruyere cheese and the white sauce, tossing to coat.

5. Transfer the green bean mixture to a baking dish. Top with the caramelized onions, remaining Gruyere cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix the melted butter with the panko crumbs and sprinkle over the top.

6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Serve hot and enjoy!