Forget the Oven – Make Creamy Green Bean Casserole Entirely on the Stovetop

Green bean casserole is a beloved Thanksgiving tradition in many households. The combination of tender green beans, rich creamy sauce, and crispy fried onions is simply irresistible.

Typically, this classic casserole is baked in the oven after assembling all the ingredients. But did you know you can actually prepare green bean casserole entirely on the stovetop?

Making this delicious dish on the stove frees up precious oven space. And you don’t lose any of the signature flavors or textures. With just one pan you can serve up homemade green bean casserole that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen!

In this article, I’ll provide a step-by-step stovetop green bean casserole recipe. You’ll also learn why the stove works so well plus extra serving ideas Let’s get started!

Benefits of Stovetop Preparation

Here are some of the main benefits of making green bean casserole on the stovetop rather than baking it:

• Frees up oven space for other dishes

• Allows you to time everything perfectly

• Gives you closer control over sauce thickness

• Lets you easily incorporate last-minute ingredients

• Cuts down on dishes with just one pan

• Provides extra stovetop burners for cooking other foods

By preparing the bean mixture and onions on the stove, you have more flexibility and control.

Step-by-Step Stovetop Casserole Recipe

Follow these simple steps for putting together classic green bean casserole entirely on the stovetop:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh green beans, ends trimmed
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 small onion, diced
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 1 1⁄2 cups milk
• 3⁄4 cup chicken broth
• 1⁄4 teaspoon pepper
• 1⁄2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 cup french fried onions

Instructions:

1. Steam green beans on stovetop until just tender, 5-6 minutes. Run under cold water to stop cooking.

2. In large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and mushrooms. Cook 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.

3. Stir in garlic and flour. Cook 1 minute more.

4. Whisk in milk and broth. Raise heat and stir frequently until thickened, about 5 minutes.

5. Stir in green beans, pepper, and parmesan. Cook until beans are heated through.

6. Remove from heat and stir in 1⁄2 cup fried onions.

7. Top with remaining 1⁄2 cup onions. Serve warm.

And just like that, you have homemade green bean casserole made completely on the stovetop!

The flour and milk create a smooth, creamy sauce that clings beautifully to every bean and onion. Plus you get tantalizing crispy onion crunch in every bite.

Stovetop Tips for the Best Casserole

• Use fresh green beans for ideal texture – frozen works too. Just thaw first.

• Cook onions and mushrooms before adding to sauce. This boosts their flavor.

• Whisk flour into butter before adding milk for a lump-free sauce.

• Stir sauce frequently as it thickens to prevent scorching on the bottom.

• Fold in half the onions before serving to allow them to soften slightly.

Follow these tips and your stovetop green bean casserole will be a new favorite!

Serving Suggestions

While stovetop green bean casserole is already easy to make, here are some serving shortcuts:

• Prepare sauce and steam beans 1-2 days in advance. Store refrigerated.

• Complete casserole through step 5 early in the day. Cover and reheat to serve.

• Swap in frozen green beans to skip steaming fresh ones. Just thaw before using.

• Use crispy canned fried onions for speed. No need to fry them yourself.

With a few time-saving tweaks, this becomes an even more manageable weeknight meal.

More Delicious Ways to Enjoy

Leftover green bean casserole is tasty for several meals. But if you want to change it up, here are some creative ways to repurpose it:

• Fold into an omelet or breakfast scramble

• Stuff into a pita pocket or sandwich

• Top a fresh garden salad

• Swirl into pasta, soup, or chowder

• Mix with rice, potatoes, or cauliflower rice

• Add to a pizza or flatbread as a topping

With just a dash of creativity, you can give your green bean casserole new life!

FAQs About Making It on the Stove

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

What kind of pan should I use?

A deep skillet or Dutch oven works well. You need ample room to stir the sauce.

Can I prepare the entire casserole in advance?

Yes! Just leave off the crispy onions. Store covered in the fridge up to 2 days.

Do I need to adjust the cooking time?

No timing adjustments needed. Follow the recipe as written for perfect results.

Can I freeze the stovetop version?

Absolutely! Allow it to cool fully before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Do I really need the broth?

The broth boosts flavor complexity. For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth.

Enjoy Restaurant-Worthy Casserole at Home

Whipping up green bean casserole on the stovetop is a game changer. With just one pan, you can serve up this hearty, comforting classic without turning on the oven.

Follow the simple recipe above for tender beans smothered in velvety cream sauce and topped with crispy fried onions. Your family will beg you to make this new stovetop version every year!