The Best Vegan Green Bean Casserole

 

Craving a comforting classic without the dairy? Our The Best Vegan Green Bean Casserole recipe delivers all the creamy, crunchy goodness you remember, completely plant-based! Perfect for holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners, this dish is sure to impress. Inspired by traditional family recipes, we’ve elevated it with fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. Let’s dive into the magic of this delightful casserole!

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Green Bean Casserole

This The Best Vegan Green Bean Casserole is not just a healthier alternative; it’s a flavor explosion you won’t want to miss! Here’s why:

• Effortless Elegance: Impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Creamy Dreamy: The mushroom sauce is rich, decadent, and completely dairy-free.
• Crispy Crunch: That irresistible fried onion topping adds the perfect texture contrast.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients.
• Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with vegans and non-vegans alike.
• Nostalgic Flavors: Rekindles those cozy holiday memories with a plant-based twist.
• Wholesome Goodness: Packed with fiber and nutrients from fresh green beans and mushrooms.

The aroma alone will fill your kitchen with warmth and anticipation!

Ingredients Needed for the Best Vegan Green Bean Casserole

Let’s gather the ingredients for this incredible The Best Vegan Green Bean Casserole. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Green Beans:

• 1 1/2 pounds (680g) fresh green beans, trimmed. Opt for vibrant, firm beans at your local farmers market.
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil. Use extra virgin for the best flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) salt. Sea salt or kosher salt works great.
• 1/4 teaspoon (0.5g) black pepper. Freshly ground is always best!

For the Crispy Onion Topping:

• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced. Uniform slices ensure even cooking.
• 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour. This helps the onions crisp up perfectly.
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil. For frying the onions to golden perfection.
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) salt. Enhances the onion’s natural sweetness.

For the Mushroom Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil. Adds richness and depth to the sauce.
• 1 pound (454g) cremini mushrooms, sliced. These have a lovely earthy flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced. Adds a pungent kick.
• 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour. To thicken the sauce.
• 3 cups (720ml) vegetable broth. Use a high-quality broth for the best taste.
• 1/2 cup (120ml) unsweetened almond milk. Adds creaminess without dairy.
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) Dijon mustard. For a tangy depth of flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) salt. Adjust to taste.
• 1/4 teaspoon (0.5g) black pepper. Freshly ground is recommended.

Pro Tip: For an even richer flavor, consider using a mix of mushroom varieties, such as shiitake and oyster mushrooms, in your sauce.

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Essential Equipment List

Make sure you have these essential tools ready before you start:

• • Baking sheet: For roasting the green beans to tender-crisp perfection.

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• Large skillet: To sauté the mushrooms and create the creamy sauce.
• 9×13 inch baking dish: The perfect size for assembling and baking the casserole.
• Large bowl: To combine the green beans and mushroom sauce.
• Paper towels: To drain the crispy fried onions.

A good quality skillet ensures even heating, while a sturdy baking dish will hold everything together perfectly.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Difficulty: Medium

Scale up this The Best Vegan Green Bean Casserole for larger gatherings or halve the ingredients for a smaller family meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the most delicious The Best Vegan Green Bean Casserole you’ve ever tasted:

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking and a perfectly bubbly casserole.

Step 2: Prepare the Green Beans

1. Toss the trimmed green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
2. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until tender-crisp. Set aside.

Roasting the green beans brings out their natural sweetness and adds a delightful texture.

Step 3: Make the Crispy Onion Topping

1. Toss the thinly sliced onions with flour and salt until well coated.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Fry onions in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
4. Drain on paper towels. Set aside.

Fry the onions in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to soggy onions. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning!

Step 4: Prepare the Mushroom Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in the same large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until softened and browned, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
4. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually whisk in vegetable broth and almond milk until smooth.
6. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
7. Stir in Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.

Whisk constantly to prevent lumps from forming in the sauce. The almond milk adds a creamy texture without any dairy!

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

1. In a large bowl, combine the roasted green beans and mushroom sauce.
2. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. Top with the crispy onion topping.

Step 6: Bake

1. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through.
2. Let cool slightly before serving.

The casserole is ready when the sauce is bubbling and the onion topping is golden brown.

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Tips for Success

Here are some expert tips to ensure your The Best Vegan Green Bean Casserole is a resounding success:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Onions: Fry the onions in batches to ensure they crisp up evenly.
• Whisk, Whisk, Whisk: Constant whisking while making the sauce prevents lumps.
• Roast the Beans: Roasting the green beans brings out their natural sweetness.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
• High-Quality Broth: Using a flavorful vegetable broth enhances the overall taste.

These simple tips will elevate your casserole from good to extraordinary!

Variations & Substitutions

Want to customize your The Best Vegan Green Bean Casserole? Here are some tasty twists:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mushroom sauce.
• Smoked Paprika: Enhance the smoky flavor by adding smoked paprika.
• Different Vegetables: Try adding roasted Brussels sprouts or cauliflower.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for the onion topping and sauce.
• Nut-Free: Substitute the almond milk with oat milk or soy milk.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with The Best Vegan Green Bean Casserole

This The Best Vegan Green Bean Casserole is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider these options:

• Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing for a comforting meal.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Adds a touch of sweetness and complements the savory casserole.
• Cranberry Sauce: A tangy contrast to the rich and creamy flavors.
• Vegan Stuffing: Complete your holiday feast with a delicious vegan stuffing.

For a refreshing beverage, try pairing the casserole with a sparkling apple cider or a non-alcoholic ginger beer.

Health Benefits

Our The Best Vegan Green Bean Casserole is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients! Green beans provide a good source of fiber, vitamins A and C, and vitamin K. Mushrooms are rich in B vitamins and antioxidants. Almond milk adds vitamin E and healthy fats. This casserole is a guilt-free indulgence!

Storage & Reheating

To store your The Best Vegan Green Bean Casserole, let it cool completely before covering and refrigerating. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. For freezing, portion the casserole into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Avoid a Soggy Casserole?

Ensure the green beans are roasted until tender-crisp and the mushroom sauce is thickened properly before assembling. Avoid adding too much liquid to the sauce.

Can I Use Canned Green Beans?

While fresh green beans are preferred for their texture and flavor, you can use canned green beans in a pinch. Be sure to drain them well and reduce the roasting time.

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Add the crispy onion topping just before baking to prevent it from getting soggy.

Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the onion topping and mushroom sauce. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I Add Other Vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, or carrots to the casserole for added flavor and nutrients.

Nutritional Information

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Total Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 500mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 40g
• Dietary Fiber: 10g
• Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 10g

Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore: Elevate Your Vegan Feast

Craving more plant-based delights? Discover these irresistible recipes that perfectly complement The Best Vegan Green Bean Casserole:

• German Chocolate Poke Cake – A decadent dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
• Easy Cabbage Casserole – A comforting and hearty side dish.
• Creamy Vegan Tomato White Bean Stew – A flavorful and nutritious stew perfect for a cozy night in.

Conclusion

Our The Best Vegan Green Bean Casserole is a fast, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing dish that brings all the comfort of a classic without any dairy. Whip it up tonight and tag us with your masterpiece!

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