Grandmas Green Bean Casserole Reimagined

Green Bean Casserole Without Cream Grandmas Secret Reimagined

By Cameron BlytheSeptember 28, 2025

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Fancy a taste of nostalgia? I get it! Let's talk green bean casserole without cream . This recipe keeps all the flavour but ditches that canned soup shortcut.

Prepare for a dish that's fresh, vibrant, and oh-so-delicious .

Brief Overview

This dish is a Thanksgiving staple in the US, but it's great any time. My version is a homemade twist on the classic.

Okay, let's get this show on the road! It's a medium difficulty recipe. Expect to spend about an hour and fifteen minutes from start to finish.

This recipe yields 6-8 servings.

Main Benefits

Honestly, this healthy green bean casserole is packed with vitamins. The fresh green beans bring goodness. It's also perfect as a Thanksgiving side dishes without cream , offering a lighter alternative.

What makes it special? You're crafting it from scratch. It's fresh, flavourful, and unforgettable.

You know? Ditching that canned soup opens up a whole world of flavour. My nan used to swear by the canned stuff, but I think she would have loved this! I'll dust off my Delia Smith apron and whip up a green bean casserole without cream that'll have your taste buds singing, and your search ranking rocketing!

Let's get into the ingredient list. We will do this by preparing a fresh green bean casserole recipe !

Ingredients For Fresh, Not From a Can

First, you'll need 2 lbs of fresh green beans. Then, you will need the base of the creamy green bean casserole without cream , the mushrooms.

Finally, we need 1 large yellow onion for making that umami flavour.

Okay, let's get this show on the road! Ready to tackle this green bean casserole without cream ? I'll dust off my Delia Smith apron.

We are going to make something special! This is not your average recipe.

Ingredients & Equipment For A Cream Free Dream

Honestly, the secret to a good dish lies in the ingredients. A fresh, flavorful green bean casserole without cream is our goal.

We'll ditch the canned soup. We're aiming for a creamy, satisfying taste the natural way.

Main Ingredients: The Freshness Factor

Green Beans: 2 lbs (900g) fresh green beans, trimmed. Freshness is key here. Look for firm, vibrant green beans, not wilted or discoloured.
Olive Oil: 1 tbsp (15ml) .
Salt: 1/2 tsp (2.5ml) .
Black Pepper: 1/4 tsp (1.25ml) .
Butter: 2 tbsp (30ml) unsalted. Go for a good quality butter. It makes a difference.
Onion: 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup / 150g ). Don't skimp on the onion.
Mushrooms: 8 oz (225g) cremini mushrooms, sliced. I love using a mix of mushrooms for more flavour.
Garlic: 2 cloves , minced.
Flour: 1/4 cup (60ml) all-purpose flour.
Chicken Broth: 3 cups (720ml) chicken broth (low-sodium preferred). Homemade broth is best, if you have it.
Milk/Cream: 1/2 cup (120ml) milk or cream (whole milk or single cream recommended).
Soy Sauce: 2 tbsp (30ml) soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free).
Nutmeg: 1/4 tsp (1.25ml) ground nutmeg.
Salt and pepper to taste.
Onion: 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced.
Flour: 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour.
Salt: 1/2 tsp (2.5ml) .
Vegetable oil for frying. You will need a good amount.

Seasoning Notes: The Secret Sauce

Forget that bland, tinned taste. This is where we ramp things up.

Nutmeg adds warmth. Soy sauce gives a depth of flavor, a bit of umami. Don't be afraid to adjust the salt and pepper.

Taste as you go. Want a kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes. It's your call! For a healthy green bean casserole , skip the extra salt.

Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple

Large pot or Dutch oven.
Large skillet.
Baking dish ( 9x13 inch / 23x33cm ).
Slotted spoon.
Whisk.
Paper towels.

Don't have a Dutch oven? No worries. A large pot will do the trick. I even use a deep frying pan.

It is all about adapting. Best green bean casserole no cream ? We are making it.

Let's Cook: Green Bean Casserole Without Cream, Reinvented!

Okay, let's get this show on the road! Honestly, I’ve always found the classic green bean casserole a bit…meh. The canned soup? Not my cuppa.

So, I'm dusting off my Delia Smith apron and we're doing this from scratch. This green bean casserole without cream is all about fresh flavours and textures.

Think vibrant, not gloppy.

Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place Magic

First things first: get organised. This is crucial for stress free cooking. Chop the 2 lbs (900g) of green beans , trim them first! Finely chop one large yellow onion.

Slice the 8 oz (225g) cremini mushrooms . Mince 2 cloves of garlic. Have everything ready before you start cooking. This will save you time and keep you sane.

Promise! My grandma always said, "A tidy cook is a happy cook", and you know what? She was right!

Safety reminder: When frying the onion, keep a watchful eye on the oil. The oil must be at a temperature of 350° F ( 175° C) .

step-by-step Bliss: From Bean to Bake

Here's the lowdown on creating your masterpiece:

Blanch the Beans: Boil the beans in salted water for 3 minutes. Then, shock them in ice water. This locks in that vibrant green.
Fry the Onions: Toss thinly sliced onions with 1/2 cup (60g) flour and 1/2 tsp (2.5ml) salt. Deep fry until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
Sauté the Mushrooms: Melt 2 tbsp (30ml) butter in a skillet. Sauté chopped onion until soft. Add mushrooms and garlic. Cook until tender.
Make the Sauce: Whisk in 1/4 cup (60ml) flour and cook for 1 minute . Slowly whisk in 3 cups (720ml) chicken broth. Simmer, then stir in 1/2 cup (120ml) milk or cream, 2 tbsp (30ml) soy sauce and 1/4 tsp (1.25ml) nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper.
Assemble & Bake: Toss beans with the sauce. Transfer to a greased baking dish (9x13 inch / 23x33cm) . Top with crispy fried onions. Bake at 350° F ( 175° C) for 20- 25 minutes .

Pro Tips: Elevate Your Casserole

Want extra flavour? Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce. Seriously, it's a game changer.
Don't skip the blanching step! It makes a huge difference in the final texture of your fresh green bean casserole recipe .
Avoid overcooking the green beans! make-ahead option: The sauce can be made a day in advance.

And there you have it: a fantastic green bean casserole without cream that puts the canned stuff to shame. Who knew a classic could taste this good? Enjoy! And remember, cooking should be fun, not stressful.

So put on some music, pour yourself a glass of wine, and get ready to wow your family and friends with this delicious dish!

Recipe Notes: Making This Green Bean Casserole Sing!

Okay, let's get this show on the road! I'll dust off my Delia Smith apron and let's talk about what makes this green bean casserole without cream totally awesome.

Serving Suggestions: Presentation is Key

Honestly, even a rustic dish can look fancy. For plating, think about layering it in a pretty dish. A sprinkle of extra crispy fried onions on top makes it pop.

I'd serve this beauty with roasted turkey or chicken. Mashed sweet potatoes and cranberry sauce? Oh my gosh, yes! They bring a bit of sweetness that balances the savory casserole perfectly.

Storage Tips: Keeping It Fresh

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This creamy green bean casserole without cream keeps well. Refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

To reheat, just pop it back in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) until it's warm. I don't recommend freezing it, the texture of the green beans can change a bit.

Freezing options will make it a little bit mess when we are going to heat it.

Variations: Making It Your Own

Want to switch things up? For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth. And ditch the Parmesan, dairy-free green bean casserole is awesome.

Need a vegan green bean casserole alternative ? Swap the milk for plant based milk and use plant based butter. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour and tamari.

I love adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat!

Nutrition Basics: Feel Good Food

This healthy green bean casserole is packed with nutrients. Green beans are a good source of vitamins and fiber. The mushrooms add antioxidants.

Each serving has approximately 250-300 calories. It's comfort food that won't leave you feeling guilty.

So there you have it! All the secrets to making the best green bean casserole no cream . You know what? Don't be afraid to experiment and have some fun! This isn't just a recipe; it's an invitation to get creative in the kitchen! I believe in you!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it really possible to make a delicious green bean casserole without cream of mushroom soup?

Absolutely! This recipe proves you can achieve a fantastically flavourful green bean casserole without cream. By making the mushroom sauce from scratch with fresh ingredients, like sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and chicken broth, you get a richer, more authentic taste that puts the canned soup version to shame it's like upgrading from a beige Austin Allegro to a shiny new Jag!

Can I make this green bean casserole without cream ahead of time?

You bet! You can assemble the casserole (up to the baking step) a day in advance and store it, covered, in the fridge. Just add the crispy fried onions right before baking to prevent them from getting soggy. Think of it as your culinary secret weapon for stress free holiday meals.

What are some good substitutions for ingredients in this cream free green bean casserole recipe?

Loads! If you're veggie, swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. For gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and tamari. And if you’re short on time, those shop bought crispy fried onions are a great alternative to making them from scratch.

You can even use different types of mushrooms, like shiitake, for an extra umami kick.

How do I store leftover green bean casserole without cream, and how long will it last?

Leftover green bean casserole should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will typically last for 3-4 days. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or in the microwave. Just be aware that the crispy onions might lose a little of their crispness upon reheating.

How can I ensure my homemade green bean casserole without cream isn't bland?

The key is layering flavours! Don't skimp on sautéing the onions and mushrooms to build a rich base for the sauce. Season generously with salt, pepper, and a touch of nutmeg to enhance the earthy notes.

And consider adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce for an umami boost a little goes a long way to make the flavour sing like Adele!

Is this recipe for green bean casserole without cream healthy? What are the nutritional considerations?

While it's comfort food, this homemade version is generally healthier than the canned soup version because it uses fresh ingredients and allows you to control the sodium content. Using low-sodium broth and being mindful of added salt is a good start. Consider using whole milk instead of cream to reduce fat content.

And remember, portion control is key to enjoying it as part of a balanced diet.