Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole

Elevate your holiday feasts and weeknight dinners with a timeless favorite given a slow-cooked twist – our Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole. Imagine crisp green beans bathed in a velvety mushroom sauce, crowned with a golden topping of crunchy fried onions. This recipe marries the convenience of the slow cooker with the homely charm of a green bean casserole, making it a standout dish at any gathering. Join us as we delve into the art of slow-cooking, unlocking the secrets to a Green Bean Casserole that will leave your guests craving seconds.

Ingredients:

Casserole:

• 1 cup canned fried onions (French’s)
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 10 ounces white or cremini mushrooms, cut into 1/4-inch slices
• 1 teaspoon salt, divided
• 1 teaspoon pepper, divided
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
• 2 pounds green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 3/4 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese

Topping:

• 2 slices hearty white bread, torn into pieces
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups canned fried onions

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
   • Grease the interior of the slow cooker to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté Mushrooms and Garlic:
   • In a skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add sliced mushrooms, minced garlic, dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper. Sauté until the mushrooms are tender.
3. Create the Roux:
   • Sprinkle flour over the mushroom mixture and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
4. Pour in Liquid Goodness:
   • Gradually whisk in low-sodium chicken broth and heavy cream, ensuring a smooth consistency. Allow the mixture to simmer until it thickens, creating a luscious sauce.
5. Season and Assemble:
   • Season the sauce with the remaining salt and pepper. In the slow cooker, layer trimmed and cut green beans. Pour the mushroom sauce over the green beans and top with shredded sharp Cheddar cheese.
6. Slow Cook to Perfection:
   • Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the green beans are tender yet retain a slight crispness.
7. Prepare the Topping:
   • In a food processor, pulse torn white bread pieces until you have coarse crumbs. Combine the breadcrumbs with melted butter to create a buttery topping.
8. Layer the Crunch:
   • Sprinkle canned fried onions over the green bean casserole, followed by the buttery breadcrumb mixture.
9. Broil for Golden Glory:
   • If your slow cooker insert is oven-safe, transfer it to the oven and broil for 2-3 minutes until the topping achieves a golden crunch. Alternatively, transfer the casserole to a baking dish for this step.
10. Serve Warm and Savor:
    • Scoop generous servings of the Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole onto plates, relishing the harmony of creamy mushroom sauce, crisp green beans, and the delightful crunch of the topping.

Cook Notes and Variations:

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• Bacon Bonanza: Enhance the flavor by incorporating crispy bacon bits into the mushroom sauce or as an additional topping.
• Parmesan Perfection: Substitute or combine Cheddar cheese with grated Parmesan for a sharper flavor profile.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage for an aromatic twist.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

For the Keto Enthusiasts:

• Utilize a keto-friendly flour substitute in place of all-purpose flour.
• Use almond flour or a low-carb alternative for the breadcrumb topping.

Low-Carb Adjustment:

• Opt for a low-carb cream substitute, such as almond milk or coconut cream.
• Replace regular fried onions with a low-carb alternative or crispy shallots.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q17: Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?

• Certainly! Thaw frozen green beans and pat them dry before layering them in the slow cooker.

Q18: Can I make this ahead and reheat?

• Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the point of adding the topping, refrigerate overnight, and bake or broil just before serving.

Q19: Can I use different mushroom varieties?

• Of course! Experiment with shiitake, portobello, or a mix of wild mushrooms to elevate the earthy richness.

Q20: Can I add more cheese for an extra cheesy experience?

• Certainly! Feel free to increase the amount of shredded Cheddar or add another cheese variety for a cheesier delight.

In conclusion, the Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole isn’t just a side dish; it’s a triumph of slow-cooked elegance on your dinner table. From the creamy mushroom sauce to the crisp green beans and the golden crunch of the topping, each layer contributes to a dish that marries comfort with sophistication. Let this recipe be the star of your holiday gatherings or a weeknight indulgence, where the slow cooker transforms humble ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. Your kitchen has become a stage, and the Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole deserves a standing ovation. Cheers to slow-cooked perfection!