Green Bean Stuffing Casserole Recipe

Looking for a comforting side dish that combines the best of both worlds? This Green Bean Stuffing Casserole is the perfect fusion of two holiday favorites: green bean casserole and stuffing! It’s a hearty, flavorful dish with tender green beans, savory stuffing, and a rich mushroom sauce all baked to perfection. Whether you’re serving it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a cozy weeknight dinner, this casserole is sure to impress. Keep reading for a step-by-step guide to making this unique and delicious casserole!

What is Green Bean Stuffing Casserole?

Green Bean Stuffing Casserole is a delightful mashup of green bean casserole and classic stuffing. It combines the creamy, savory goodness of a traditional green bean casserole with the crispy, herby flavor of stuffing. This dish features tender green beans, a mushroom-based sauce, and a layer of stuffing mix that adds both texture and flavor. The result is a comforting, filling side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses, making it a versatile option for any meal.

Ingredients List for Green Bean Stuffing Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Green Bean Stuffing Casserole:

• Fresh green beans (1 ½ lbs, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces): Fresh green beans have the best texture, but frozen can be used as well.
• Stuffing mix (1 box, about 6 oz): Choose a herb-seasoned or cornbread stuffing mix for extra flavor.
• Butter (4 tbsp): For sautéing and adding richness to the casserole.
• Mushrooms (8 oz, sliced): Cremini or button mushrooms provide an earthy base.
• Onion (1 small, diced): Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings extra flavor to the dish.
• All-purpose flour (2 tbsp): Helps thicken the sauce.
• Chicken or vegetable broth (1 cup): For creating a savory sauce.
• Heavy cream (1 cup): Adds richness and creaminess to the casserole.
• Soy sauce (1 tsp): Enhances the umami flavor in the mushroom sauce.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.
• Crispy fried onions (1 cup): Adds crunch and flavor to the casserole topping.

Optional additions:

• Grated parmesan (¼ cup): For a cheesy twist.
• Cooked bacon (4 slices, crumbled): Adds smoky flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

This Green Bean Stuffing Casserole is flexible and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences:

• Green Beans: If you don’t have fresh green beans, frozen works just as well. Simply thaw them before adding to the recipe. Canned green beans can also be used, but they’ll have a softer texture.
• Stuffing Mix: Feel free to use homemade stuffing if you have leftovers, or try different flavors of boxed stuffing, such as cornbread or sausage stuffing, for a twist.
• Mushroom Soup: If you prefer, you can use canned cream of mushroom soup instead of making a homemade sauce. Substitute one can of cream of mushroom soup and ½ cup of milk for the sauce ingredients.
• Cheesy Version: Add shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyère to the green bean mixture for a cheesy casserole.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free stuffing mix and gluten-free flour to make this dish gluten-free.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to make Green Bean Stuffing Casserole step by step:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Green Beans

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the trimmed green beans and cook for 4-5 minutes, until tender-crisp. Drain and immediately transfer the green beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking. Drain again and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing Mix

Prepare the stuffing mix according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves mixing the stuffing with hot water and butter, then letting it sit to absorb the liquid. Set aside once it’s ready.

Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms, Onion, and Garlic

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Stir in the garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking for another 5-7 minutes, until the mushrooms are browned and have released their moisture.

Step 4: Make the Mushroom Sauce

Once the mushrooms are cooked, sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, then stir in the heavy cream, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and smooth.

Step 5: Combine the Green Beans and Sauce

Add the blanched green beans to the skillet with the mushroom sauce, stirring to coat the beans evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. Spread the green bean and mushroom mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish. Top with the prepared stuffing mix, spreading it evenly over the green beans. For an extra touch, sprinkle some grated parmesan or crumbled bacon over the top.

Step 7: Add Crispy Onions and Bake

Sprinkle 1 cup of crispy fried onions over the stuffing layer. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the sauce is bubbling.

Step 8: Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This gives the flavors a chance to meld together and makes it easier to serve. Enjoy!

How to Cook Green Bean Stuffing Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking the perfect Green Bean Stuffing Casserole requires balancing the tender-crisp texture of the green beans with the flavorful stuffing and creamy mushroom sauce. Blanching the green beans ensures they remain bright and firm, even after baking. A homemade mushroom sauce elevates the dish beyond the typical canned-soup versions, offering a rich and savory flavor. The final touch of crispy fried onions adds texture and crunch to each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Green Beans: Be careful not to overcook the green beans during blanching. They should be tender-crisp, as they’ll cook further in the oven.
• Soggy Stuffing: Make sure the stuffing is properly prepared but not too wet before layering it on the casserole. You want it to retain some texture and crisp up in the oven.
• Lumpy Sauce: To avoid lumps in the sauce, whisk the broth in slowly and consistently stir as it simmers to create a smooth, creamy consistency.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This Green Bean Stuffing Casserole is perfect as a side dish for holiday meals or cozy family dinners.

How to Serve Green Bean Stuffing Casserole

• Holiday Side Dish: Serve this casserole alongside Thanksgiving favorites like roast turkey, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce. It also pairs well with ham for Christmas or Easter dinners.
• Weeknight Meal: For an easy weeknight dinner, serve this casserole as a main dish with a side salad or crusty bread.

Presentation Ideas for Green Bean Stuffing Casserole

• Rustic Style: Bake the casserole in a cast iron skillet or a deep ceramic dish for a rustic, homestyle presentation.
• Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme on top of the casserole for a burst of color and freshness.
• Individual Servings: For a dinner party or potluck, bake the casserole in individual ramekins for a personalized touch.

Green Bean Stuffing Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make It Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, top with crispy onions and bake as directed.
• Customize the Flavor: Feel free to experiment with different types of stuffing, such as cornbread stuffing or sausage stuffing, for unique flavor combinations.
• Cheesy Twist: Add shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan cheese between the green beans and stuffing for a cheesy casserole.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead. Cover it and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. When ready, top with the crispy onions and bake as directed.

2. Can I use canned green beans?

Yes, canned green beans can be used, but they will have a softer texture than fresh or frozen. Drain and rinse them before adding to the recipe.

3. Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply use a gluten-free stuffing mix and substitute gluten-free flour for the sauce to make the casserole gluten-free.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

5. Can I freeze Green Bean Stuffing Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Conclusion

This Green Bean Stuffing Casserole is a delicious twist on two holiday classics, making it a perfect side dish for any special occasion or family dinner. The combination of tender green beans, savory stuffing, and rich mushroom sauce is irresistible. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and guaranteed to be a hit at your table. Try this recipe today and enjoy a comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole that’s sure to become a family favorite!

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