As the autumn leaves begin to fall and the air turns crisp, I find myself yearning for those comforting, savory dishes that warm both body and soul. One such dish that holds a special place in my heart is the french onion soup green bean casserole. This delightful blend of flavors reminds me of evenings spent in Mama Lou’s cozy kitchen, where the aroma of caramelized onions and bubbling cheese filled the air, wrapping us in warmth and nostalgia. Today, I invite you to join me on this culinary journey, as we explore the joys of preparing this classic dish that’s been passed down through generations in my family.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This French Onion Soup Green Bean Casserole
There’s something truly magical about the combination of french onion soup and green bean casserole. This dish is a beautiful marriage of flavors, where the sweetness of caramelized onions meets the earthy crunch of fresh green beans, all enveloped in a velvety, cheesy sauce. Each bite takes me back to those cherished moments with Mama Lou and my sister Ouma, gathered around the dining table, sharing stories and laughter. This casserole is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of family and tradition, bringing a touch of elegance to any meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This French Onion Soup Green Bean Casserole
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade)
For those who prefer a vegetarian version, you can substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth. And if Gruyère cheese isn’t available, Swiss cheese is a delightful alternative.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 340 per serving
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
Fusion Comfort: French Onion Soup Meets Green Bean Casserole
Learn how to make delicious french onion soup green bean casserole. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade)
For those who prefer a vegetarian version, you can substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth. And if Gruyère cheese isn’t available, Swiss cheese is a delightful alternative.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and set it aside.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 4-5 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced onions and sugar, cooking slowly until caramelized, about 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the beef broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the Gruyère cheese and thyme, allowing the cheese to melt into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the green beans with the sauce, mixing gently to coat. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Top with crispy fried onions and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top.
As you prepare this dish, remember that patience is key, especially when caramelizing the onions. Mama Lou always said, “Good things take time,” and her words have guided me through many a kitchen adventure.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your French Onion Soup Green Bean Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and set it aside.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 4-5 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced onions and sugar, cooking slowly until caramelized, about 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the beef broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the Gruyère cheese and thyme, allowing the cheese to melt into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the green beans with the sauce, mixing gently to coat. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Top with crispy fried onions and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top.
As you prepare this dish, remember that patience is key, especially when caramelizing the onions. Mama Lou always said, “Good things take time,” and her words have guided me through many a kitchen adventure.
Tips for Making the Best French Onion Soup Green Bean Casserole
To achieve the perfect caramelized onions, take your time and stir frequently to prevent them from sticking. If you’re in a pinch, you can prepare the onions a day in advance and store them in the fridge. When it comes to cheese, freshly grated is always best, as it melts more evenly. And for an added layer of flavor, try adding a splash of sherry to the sauce after adding the flour—this little trick was one of Mama Lou’s secrets.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This french onion soup green bean casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken or a juicy beef roast, making it an ideal side dish for holiday gatherings and family dinners. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a light, crisp salad tossed with vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors. A glass of chilled white wine, such as Chardonnay, complements the creamy, cheesy notes beautifully.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, this casserole stores well in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, cover the dish with aluminum foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, individual portions can be reheated in the microwave, though the oven method helps retain that delightful crispiness on top.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for french onion soup green bean casserole?
The main ingredients for french onion soup green bean casserole include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make french onion soup green bean casserole?
The total time to make french onion soup green bean casserole includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make french onion soup green bean casserole ahead of time?
Yes, french onion soup green bean casserole can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with french onion soup green bean casserole?
french onion soup green bean casserole pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is french onion soup green bean casserole suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, french onion soup green bean casserole may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
Creating this french onion soup green bean casserole is more than just a cooking endeavor; it’s a way of keeping family traditions alive and sharing love through food. As you take your first bite, I hope you feel the warmth and joy that this dish brings to my family and me. Whether you’re introducing it to your holiday spread or simply savoring a cozy evening meal, this casserole is sure to become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire, just as it has been in ours. Bon appétit!
