Healthy Green Bean Casserole

There’s something so comforting about a warm, hearty Healthy Green Bean Casserole that brings back fond memories of family gatherings. As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, I start to crave the rich, creamy flavors of this dish. Growing up, my mom would always make a big batch, and we’d all gather around the table, eagerly waiting for our serving. The blend of tender green beans, sautéed mushrooms, and that delightful crispy topping created a symphony of textures and tastes that I still adore.
Now, as an adult, I’ve made it my mission to create a version that’s not only packed with flavor but also leans towards the healthier side. This Healthy Green Bean Casserole is made with wholesome ingredients, bringing that nostalgic taste to the table without sacrificing health. Trust me, it’s the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving feast or any family dinner. Whether you’re making it for a crowd or just for yourself, this casserole is sure to impress!

What Goes Into Healthy Green Bean Casserole

Every good dish starts with quality ingredients, and the Healthy Green Bean Casserole is no exception. The philosophy behind this recipe lies in using fresh, wholesome ingredients that complement each other beautifully. The star of the show, the green beans, provides a crisp texture while the creamy sauce adds richness and depth. Together, they create a harmony that’s hard to resist.

• ½ cup whole wheat panko breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs add a delightful crunch on top of the casserole, making every bite satisfying.
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: This cheese gives the dish a savory depth and enhances its creamy texture.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of parsley adds freshness and color, brightening up the dish.
• 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided: Olive oil is used for both sautéing and drizzling on the breadcrumb topping, adding richness to the flavor.
• 2 ½ pounds green beans, trimmed: The main ingredient, these beans provide a bright, crisp element to the casserole.
• 1 medium onion, very thinly sliced: The onion adds sweetness and depth, becoming wonderfully caramelized during cooking.
• 8 ounces baby bella (cremini) mushrooms, sliced: These mushrooms contribute an earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: This thickening agent helps create a creamy sauce that clings to the beans.
• 2 cups 2% milk: Provides creaminess without being overly heavy, keeping the dish on the lighter side.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of the dish, making each ingredient shine.
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a touch of warmth and spice.
• ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg subtly elevates the sauce’s flavor profile.
• 7 ounces 2% Greek yogurt: This ingredient adds creaminess and a bit of tang, making the casserole light yet satisfying.

Recipe Steps for Healthy Green Bean Casserole

Cooking this Healthy Green Bean Casserole is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with delicious aromas. Follow these simple steps to create a dish that will impress your family and friends.

1. Start by positioning a rack in the upper third of your oven and preheating it to broil. This ensures that your casserole will get that lovely golden brown finish on top. Lightly coat a 2-quart, broiler-safe baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
2. In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Stir until well mixed and set aside. This topping will create a beautiful crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy filling.
3. Next, it’s time to blanch the green beans. Bring a large pot of water to a vigorous boil. Prepare an ice water bath by filling a bowl with ice water. Once the water is boiling, add the trimmed green beans and cook just until they are crisp-tender, about 3 minutes. Immediately plunge them into the ice bath to stop the cooking process, then drain and transfer them to a clean kitchen towel to lightly pat dry.
4. While the beans cool, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, wide saucepan over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and mushrooms. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes soft, golden, and the mushrooms are browned and have released their liquid, about 15 minutes.
5. After the onions and mushrooms are perfectly cooked, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sprinkle the flour over the top, stirring for 1 to 2 minutes until all of the flour turns golden and no white bits remain. This step is crucial for creating a smooth sauce.
6. Slowly pour in the milk, a few splashes at a time, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Once all the milk is added, increase the heat to medium-high. Incorporate the salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Cook and stir, allowing the sauce to bubble, scraping the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon or spatula. Continue until the sauce reduces and thickens, resembling a creamy gravy, about 8 to 10 minutes.
7. Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the Greek yogurt, mixing until well combined. This adds a lovely creaminess while keeping it light.
8. Now, it’s time to assemble the casserole. Transfer half of the blanched green beans to your prepared baking dish. Spread half of the creamy sauce over the beans. Add the remaining green beans and top with the rest of the sauce. Finally, sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top for that crispy finish.
9. Broil the casserole, watching closely, until it’s bubbling and beginning to brown on top, about 1 to 3 minutes, depending on your broiler. Be sure not to walk away during this step, as it can go from perfectly golden to burnt very quickly!
10. Let the casserole stand for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Before serving, garnish with additional fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Ways to Customize

If you’re looking to switch things up with your Healthy Green Bean Casserole, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your taste. Here are some ideas to inspire your culinary creativity:

• Swap the Beans: Feel free to experiment with different types of beans or even vegetables. Adding broccoli or asparagus can create a delicious twist!
• Cheese Variations: While Parmesan is traditional, try incorporating cheddar or fontina for a different flavor profile.
• Herb Additions: Enhance the flavor by adding herbs such as thyme or rosemary to the sauce for more depth.
• Spice it Up: For a little kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
• Vegan Twist: For a plant-based version, use coconut milk and a vegan yogurt alternative, and skip the cheese altogether.
• Leftover Transformation: Transform leftover casserole into a creamy soup by blending it with extra vegetable broth for a new meal.

What to Pair With Healthy Green Bean Casserole

Serving your Healthy Green Bean Casserole is all about pairing it with the right dishes to create a balanced meal. Here are some fantastic ideas:

• Roasted Chicken: This casserole complements the flavors of roasted chicken beautifully, making it an ideal side dish for family dinners.
• Stuffed Turkey: For a classic Thanksgiving spread, serve this casserole alongside a succulent stuffed turkey for a delicious contrast.
• Vegetarian Main Dishes: If you’re hosting a vegetarian dinner, consider pairing it with a hearty lentil loaf or stuffed bell peppers.
• Seasonal Salads: A fresh, seasonal salad with vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the casserole.
• Grain Sides: Serving this dish with grain sides like quinoa or wild rice can round out the meal and add extra nutrients.
• Storing Leftovers: Leftover casserole can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Healthy Green Bean Casserole is a delightful dish that combines comfort and health in every bite. It’s perfect for any occasion, from holiday feasts to weeknight dinners. I encourage you to try this recipe and savor the unique blend of flavors and textures. You won’t be disappointed!

Healthy Green Bean Casserole

The ultimate comfort food, this Healthy Green Bean Casserole is creamy, crispy, and easy to make! It’s a perfect addition to your holiday table or any family dinner. Packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s time to try this delicious dish tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 10 servings

Course: Side Dishes

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• ½ cup whole wheat panko breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley plus additional for garnish
• 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil divided
• 2 ½ pounds green beans trimmed
• 1 medium onion very thinly sliced
• 8 ounces baby bella (cremini) mushrooms sliced (do not use plain white mushrooms, as they do not have much flavor)
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups 2% milk
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 7 ounces 2% Greek yogurt

Equipment

• Oven
• Frying Pan
• Large Pot
• Mixing Bowl
• Grater
• Chef's Knife
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. Start by positioning a rack in the upper third of your oven and preheating it to broil. This ensures that your casserole will get that lovely golden brown finish on top. Lightly coat a 2-quart, broiler-safe baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
2. In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Stir until well mixed and set aside. This topping will create a beautiful crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy filling.
3. Next, it’s time to blanch the green beans. Bring a large pot of water to a vigorous boil. Prepare an ice water bath by filling a bowl with ice water. Once the water is boiling, add the trimmed green beans and cook just until they are crisp-tender, about 3 minutes. Immediately plunge them into the ice bath to stop the cooking process, then drain and transfer them to a clean kitchen towel to lightly pat dry.
4. While the beans cool, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, wide saucepan over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and mushrooms. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes soft, golden, and the mushrooms are browned and have released their liquid, about 15 minutes.
5. After the onions and mushrooms are perfectly cooked, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sprinkle the flour over the top, stirring for 1 to 2 minutes until all of the flour turns golden and no white bits remain. This step is crucial for creating a smooth sauce.
6. Slowly pour in the milk, a few splashes at a time, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Once all the milk is added, increase the heat to medium-high. Incorporate the salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Cook and stir, allowing the sauce to bubble, scraping the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon or spatula. Continue until the sauce reduces and thickens, resembling a creamy gravy, about 8 to 10 minutes.
7. Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the Greek yogurt, mixing until well combined. This adds a lovely creaminess while keeping it light.
8. Now, it’s time to assemble the casserole. Transfer half of the blanched green beans to your prepared baking dish. Spread half of the creamy sauce over the beans. Add the remaining green beans and top with the rest of the sauce. Finally, sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top for that crispy finish.
9. Broil the casserole, watching closely, until it’s bubbling and beginning to brown on top, about 1 to 3 minutes, depending on your broiler. Be sure not to walk away during this step, as it can go from perfectly golden to burnt very quickly!
10. Let the casserole stand for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Before serving, garnish with additional fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Notes

For best results, prepare the green beans and sauce a day in advance, storing them separately. When ready, assemble and bake for a quick meal.

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Meet Piper Cross

I am obsessed with using fresh, seasonal produce to make meals shine. I believe a squeeze of citrus or a handful of herbs can change everything. I cooked and photographed this dish with a focus on vibrant colors and natural textures, ensuring it looks as good as it tastes when you make it.