Savory Green Bean Casserole with Sweet Maple Pecans Delight

The air is crisp, the leaves are bursting with color, and the aroma of home-cooked meals fills the kitchen—this can only mean one thing: it’s that time of year again when families gather around the dining table to celebrate togetherness. One dish that consistently finds its way onto our holiday tables is the mouthwatering Green Bean Casserole with Maple Pecans. This comforting casserole is not just a side dish; it’s a cherished tradition that evokes memories of family gatherings, laughter, and warmth.

This recipe was inspired by the classic green bean casserole but takes it to the next level with a delightful twist. The addition of maple pecans brings a sweet crunch that perfectly complements the tender green beans and creamy mushroom sauce. Whether you’re serving it at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy family dinner, this dish stands out with its unique flavors and easy preparation, making it the perfect addition to any celebration.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Green Bean Casserole with Maple Pecans is a crowd-pleaser for numerous reasons. First, it combines the familiar comfort of a classic recipe with unexpected flavors, making every bite exciting. The creamy texture of the casserole is balanced by the satisfying crunch of the pecans, creating a delightful contrast that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Not only is this dish irresistibly tasty, but it is also quite simple to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this beautiful casserole in no time, allowing you more opportunities to enjoy precious moments with your loved ones. Additionally, this recipe offers room for customization—whether you want to make it vegetarian or gluten-free, it can easily adapt to any dietary preference without compromising on flavor. You’ll find that this casserole is more than just a dish; it’s an inviting and heartwarming experience perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this delicious Green Bean Casserole with Maple Pecans, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

• Fresh Green Beans (1 pound): The star of the dish! These green beauties add a vibrant color, crunch, and freshness that balances the creaminess of the sauce.
• Cremini Mushrooms (8 ounces): These mushrooms pack a rich, earthy flavor that forms the base of the creamy sauce, enhancing the overall taste of the casserole.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup): This creamy element adds richness and silky texture to the dish, making each bite delectable.
• Onion (1 medium): Chopped onion gives a savory depth of flavor that enhances the entire casserole.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): The aromatic garlic elevates the dish, adding a fragrant note that complements both the beans and the mushrooms.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance and balance the flavor of the ingredients.
• Pecan halves (1/2 cup): The perfectly toasted pecans add a delightful crunch and a slightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the casserole.
• Maple Syrup (2 tablespoons): This sweet topping is the pièce de résistance! It brings a warm touch of sweetness that contrasts with the savory elements of the dish.
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Used to sauté the onions and mushrooms, it provides a luscious base and helps build deeper flavors.

Optional Additions

• Cheese: For extra creaminess, consider adding shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese to the casserole before baking.
• Spices: A pinch of chili flakes can give a subtle heat to the dish, making it more exciting for those who enjoy a bit of spice.
• Alternative Nuts: If you’re not a fan of pecans, walnuts or sliced almonds make a great alternative for that crunchy topping.

Special Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme for a pop of color and a touch of freshness that brightens the dish.
• Fried Onions: For a classic touch, sprinkle some crispy fried onions on top just before serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have gathered all the ingredients, let’s dive into the cooking process!

1. Prepare the Green Beans: Start by washing the green beans thoroughly. Trim the ends and cut them into 2-inch pieces.
2. Blanch the Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and blanch them for 3-4 minutes until they are bright green but still crisp. Drain and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
3. Sauté the Onions and Mushrooms: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Next, stir in the sliced cremini mushrooms and cook until they are soft and browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Create the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream into the skillet with the sautéed onions and mushrooms. Stir well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Combine Everything: In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched green beans with the creamy mushroom sauce, mixing until well coated.
6. Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
7. Top with Maple Pecans: In a small bowl, toss the pecans with maple syrup, ensuring they are well coated. Sprinkle the maple pecans over the casserole.
8. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbling and the pecans are golden brown.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs or fried onions if desired and enjoy!

Serving and Storage Tips

This Green Bean Casserole with Maple Pecans can serve as a delightful side dish for your holiday feast, but it also works wonderfully for potlucks or casual family dinners. A standard serving size is approximately 3/4 cup per person, but feel free to adjust based on the appetite of your guests.

Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, simply place the casserole back in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. If it seems dry, a splash of cream can help bring back the original moisture and flavor.

Helpful Tips

• For added convenience, you can prepare the casserole a day before and store it in the fridge. Just bake it right before serving.
• Using frozen green beans can save time; however, fresh beans will provide a better texture and flavor.
• If you want a crispy topping without extra prep, consider using store-bought fried onions in place of maple pecans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time by following the instructions up to the baking step. Store it in the fridge and bake just before serving for optimal freshness.

What can I do if I don’t have heavy cream?

If you need a lighter option, you can substitute with half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream. Keep in mind that the texture and richness may be slightly altered.

Can I freeze the Green Bean Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked casserole. Just cover it tightly with foil and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! This casserole is naturally vegetarian as it contains no meat, making it a great option for plant-based diets.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Green Bean Casserole with Maple Pecans is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a beautiful way to connect with family and friends during special occasions. With its rich flavors, easy preparation, and room for customization, it is sure to become a staple in your recipe box. So why not give it a try? We encourage you to share your experiences and any adaptations you make in the comments below. This recipe is more than just a dish; it’s about creating memories and sharing joy at the dinner table with loved ones. Enjoy every bite!

Savory Green Bean Casserole with Sweet Maple Pecans Delight

Print Recipe

Savor this Green Bean Casserole topped with Sweet Maple Pecans A delightful twist on a classic dish perfect for any gathering Enjoy

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1 pound Fresh Green Beans

8 ounces Cremini Mushrooms

1 cup Heavy Cream

1 medium Onion

2 cloves Garlic

Salt and Pepper

1/2 cup Pecan halves

2 tablespoons Maple Syrup

2 tablespoons Olive Oil

Instructions

Prepare the Green Beans: Wash and trim the green beans into 2-inch pieces.

Blanch the Green Beans: Boil salted water, add green beans, blanch for 3-4 minutes, then transfer to ice water.

Sauté the Onions and Mushrooms: Heat olive oil, add onions, cook until translucent, then add garlic and mushrooms until soft.

Create the Sauce: Add heavy cream, salt, and pepper to the pan and simmer until slightly thickened.

Combine Everything: Mix blanched green beans with the creamy sauce until well coated.

Prepare for Baking: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and transfer mixture to a greased baking dish.

Top with Maple Pecans: Toss pecans with maple syrup and sprinkle over the casserole.

Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbling and pecans are golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy: Let sit for a few minutes before serving, garnished with fresh herbs or fried onions.

• Author: souzanfood
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 300 calories
• Sugar: 5 grams
• Fat: 20 grams
• Saturated Fat: 20 grams
• Carbohydrates: 28 grams
• Fiber: 4 grams
• Protein: 6 grams

Keywords: Green Bean Casserole, Holiday Recipes, Casserole, Side Dishes