Vegan Green Bean Casserole Recipe

There is something utterly comforting and timeless about a Vegan Green Bean Casserole, a dish that brings together tender green beans, rich mushroom sauce, and crispy fried onions in perfect harmony. This plant-based twist on a classic favorite is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying, proving that vegan cooking can be indulgent, cozy, and full of flavor all at once. Whether you’re making it for a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, this casserole shines with its creamy texture and delightful crispy topping, making it a must-have in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Vegan Green Bean Casserole comes down to a handful of simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures—from the earthiness of mushrooms to the crunch of crispy onions topping it all off.

• Avocado oil: A neutral oil that helps sauté the mushrooms without overpowering their flavor.
• Sliced mushrooms: Provides a savory, meaty depth that makes the casserole rich and satisfying.
• Vegan butter: Adds creaminess and helps build the roux for that luscious sauce.
• All-purpose flour: The key thickening agent that turns the sauce silky and smooth.
• Vegetable stock: Enhances the umami flavor and keeps the sauce well-seasoned.
• Unsweetened soy milk (or other plant milk): Creates a creamy base while keeping the dish dairy-free.
• Garlic salt: Brings a subtle kick and aroma without overwhelming the other flavors.
• Ground black pepper: Adds mild heat and complexity.
• Green beans (canned): The star ingredient that offers vibrant color and a fresh, tender bite.
• French fried onions: The crunchy, golden topping that gives the casserole its iconic finish.

How to Make Vegan Green Bean Casserole

Step 1: Preheat your oven

Start by setting your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Preheating ensures that once your casserole is assembled, it will bake evenly and develop that perfect golden crust on top.

Step 2: Sauté the mushrooms

Heat a cast iron pan or heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat and add the avocado oil. Toss in the sliced mushrooms and cook them, stirring occasionally, until they soften and turn a rich brown—this usually takes about seven minutes. This step not only develops flavor but also removes excess moisture from the mushrooms. Once cooked, remove them from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the sauce

Lower the heat to medium-low and add the vegan butter to the same pan. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour to create a smooth roux, which is the secret behind your creamy sauce. Gradually whisk in the vegetable stock and unsweetened soy milk to avoid lumps. Allow this mixture to cook gently for one to two minutes until thickened. Finally, season with garlic salt and ground black pepper, making sure the sauce is perfectly seasoned before moving on.

Step 4: Combine green beans and mushrooms

Return the sautéed mushrooms to the pan, then add the drained green beans. Stir everything together to coat the beans evenly with the luscious sauce. Taste at this point to adjust salt and pepper, ensuring every bite will be flavorful.

Step 5: Add the topping

If your pan is not oven-safe, transfer the green bean and mushroom mixture into a baking dish. Spread an even layer of the crunchy French fried onions on top. These onions will bake to golden perfection, adding a satisfying texture contrast to your creamy casserole.

Step 6: Bake until bubbly

Place the casserole in the center rack of your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll want to see the sauce bubbling around the edges and the onions beautifully golden brown. This baking step melds the flavors and crisps up the topping just right.

Step 7: Serve warm

Remove your Vegan Green Bean Casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serving it warm brings out its full comforting qualities that everyone will adore.

How to Serve Vegan Green Bean Casserole

Garnishes

Sometimes the simplest garnishes can make a dish sing. Try sprinkling fresh chopped parsley or chives on top just before serving for a pop of color and a fresh herbaceous note. A little squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the creamy flavors if you want a subtle zing.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs beautifully with other vegan holiday staples or everyday sides. Think creamy mashed potatoes, herbed quinoa, or a crisp green salad to balance out the richness. For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted veggies or your favorite plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving individual portions of the Vegan Green Bean Casserole in mini ramekins topped with extra fried onions. Alternatively, layer the casserole in a clear glass baking dish to show off the enticing layers of green beans, creamy sauce, and golden topping for a visually stunning presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The casserole will keep its flavor and texture beautifully, making it perfect for next-day meals or busy weeknight dinners.

Freezing

You can freeze this casserole either before baking or after it has cooled post-baking. Use a freezer-safe container and keep it frozen for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain its creamy consistency.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the casserole with foil to prevent the topping from overly browning and warm it in a 350 degrees Fahrenheit oven for 15 to 20 minutes or until heated through. For quicker results, microwave portions individually, but note the topping may lose some crispness.

FAQs

Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh green beans work beautifully and offer a slightly crisper texture. Just blanch them briefly in boiling water before adding to the casserole to ensure they soften properly during baking.

What can I substitute for vegan butter?

If you don’t have vegan butter on hand, coconut oil or a mild flavored olive oil can work as alternatives, though they may subtly change the flavor profile of the sauce.

How do I make the topping extra crispy?

To get the crispiest topping, add the fried onions halfway through baking for a fresher crunch, or even sprinkle some more fried onions on top right before serving.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this Vegan Green Bean Casserole gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch, and be sure to use gluten-free fried onions.

Can I prepare the casserole completely ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole up to the baking step and store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add the crispy onions right before baking to keep them from getting soggy.

Final Thoughts

I truly believe you’ll fall in love with this Vegan Green Bean Casserole as much as I have. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in food form—simple, hearty, and irresistibly tasty. Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a wonderful way to impress family and friends with comfort food that everyone can enjoy. So don’t hesitate, gather your ingredients and let this casserole bring a little extra joy to your table!

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