Lightened Up Green Bean Casserole with Shallot Crumb Topping
A lightened up healthier version of the classic green bean casserole made from scratch no canned soup
A lightened up healthier version of the classic green bean casserole made from scratch no canned soup
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 cup 2% milk
- 1/4 cup grated pecorino romano cheese
- 2 lbs green beans cut in half, trimmed and washed
- 1 cup shallots finely diced
- 1 tbsp grated romano or parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tsp fresh)
- 1/3 cup shallots minced
- 16 oz sliced mushrooms (i used cremini)
- 1 cup reduced sodium chicken stock (or vegetable for ve
- Carbohydrate 33.5136127225029 g
- Cholesterol 2.89000000011835 mg
- Fat 2.8605336357796 g
- Fiber 5.1085257290762 g
- Protein 7.66258747998251 g
- Saturated Fat 0.910298677467751 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (247g)
- Sodium 306.896963070888 mg
- Sugar 28.4050869934267 g
- Trans Fat 0.296423920836056 g
- Calories 178 calories
Step-by-step
- Boil a large pot of water, when boiling add green beans and blanch for 2 minutes (or 6-8 minutes if you like them softer). Drain in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop them from cooking.
- Meanwhile make the topping, heat a medium-sized skillet over medium heat. Add the shallots and sauté about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden brown.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, add breadcrumbs, grated cheese and thyme; sauté until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently, careful not to burn.
- Preheat the oven to 375°. Lightly spray a 13 x 9 inch baking dish.
- Heat oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add shallots and sauté 1 to 2 minutes.
- Add mushrooms, season with salt and pepper and sauté 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Sprinkle flour over the mushrooms, stir constantly for about a minute, then slowly add chicken stock, then milk.
- Bring to a low boil, and cook stirring occasionally until thickened, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in Romano cheese.
- Add blanched green beans and mix well, season with salt and pepper as needed; pour into prepared baking dish.
- Top with toasted bread crumbs and bake about 30 minutes.
My Lighter Take on a Classic: Green Bean Casserole
As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Weeknight dinners need to be quick, healthy, and, let's be honest, delicious enough to satisfy even my picky eaters. That's why I've always loved green bean casserole, but the traditional recipe, with its creamy soup base, felt a bit heavy for my taste. So, I decided to embark on a mission: to lighten up this holiday classic without sacrificing any of its comforting goodness. The result? This recipe, my Lightened Up Green Bean Casserole with Shallot Crumb Topping, is a testament to the fact that healthy can be incredibly flavorful.
The inspiration for this healthier twist struck me while I was meal prepping for the week. I was looking for ways to incorporate more vegetables into our diet, and green beans seemed like an obvious choice. However, the thought of that heavy, creamy sauce always held me back. I knew I could make it better. This isn’t just a quick weeknight meal; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something truly special. The shallots in the topping add a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor that perfectly complements the crisp green beans. I've replaced the canned soup with a simple homemade sauce, using chicken stock and milk to create a light yet flavorful base. The result is a lighter, brighter casserole that's just as satisfying as the original, if not more so.
What makes this recipe even better is its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms – cremini, shiitake, or even oyster mushrooms would all work wonderfully. If you're vegetarian, simply substitute vegetable stock for the chicken stock. The best part is, this casserole can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings. The shallot crumb topping adds a beautiful crunch, and the whole dish is both elegant and comforting, suitable for any occasion.
One of the things I love most about cooking is the opportunity to create memories with my family. This recipe has become a new favorite in our house, and I'm excited to share it with you. It’s a dish that brings people together, whether it's a simple weeknight meal or a special holiday gathering. The joy of gathering around a table, sharing food and laughter, is something that truly enriches our lives. And when that food is delicious, healthy, and easy to make, it’s even better.
I encourage you to try this recipe and let me know what you think. Share your creations with me on social media – I'd love to see your beautiful, lighter versions of this holiday staple. Remember, cooking is a journey of exploration and discovery, and I hope this recipe inspires you to create your own healthier, happier meals.
This Lightened Up Green Bean Casserole is not just a dish; it’s a testament to the fact that nourishing food can also be exceptionally delicious. It's about embracing fresh ingredients, taking control of what we eat, and savoring every moment around the table. So, go ahead, give it a try, and experience the joy of creating something truly special in your own kitchen.
Beyond its deliciousness, this recipe embodies practicality for the modern woman. It's a perfect solution for busy schedules, allowing you to create a healthy and flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a recipe that speaks to the balance we all strive for in our lives – the perfect blend of health, taste, and convenience. It’s a testament to the idea that you can eat well, feel good, and still have time for the other important aspects of life.
This recipe is more than just a dish; it's a symbol of self-care and a celebration of wholesome living. It's a reminder that nourishing ourselves doesn't have to be complicated. With a few simple ingredients and a touch of creativity, you can create a meal that nourishes your body and delights your senses. And isn’t that what cooking is all about? Making something delicious that brings joy and nourishment to you and those you love.
