Why You’ll Love this Vegan Green Bean Casserole Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort and flavor, you’ll absolutely love this Vegan Green Bean Casserole recipe. It’s creamy, savory, and bursting with wholesome ingredients that make it perfect for any occasion.
I adore how easy it’s to prepare, yet it feels like a special treat. The crispy fried onions on top add a delightful crunch, making each bite something to savor.
Plus, it’s a great way to impress guests or family who mightn’t even notice it’s vegan! Trust me, this casserole will quickly become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients of Vegan Green Bean Casserole
When it comes to whipping up a cozy dish that brings comfort and satisfaction, this Vegan Green Bean Casserole really hits the spot. Whether it’s for a holiday feast, a family gathering, or just a lazy Sunday dinner, this casserole is sure to impress. The ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy to gather everything you need.
And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a dish that’s not only delicious but also vegan? It’s like a little miracle in a casserole dish, perfect for everyone at the table.
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delicious Vegan Green Bean Casserole to life:
- 12 ounces green beans
- 1 1/2 cups French’s French fried onions
- 1 1/2 cups unsweetened soymilk
- 1 vegetable bouillon cube
- 2 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 1/2 tablespoons cold water
- 1/2 medium-sized onion, diced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 3/4 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon basil
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon sage
- 1/2 teaspoon marjoram
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
Now, before you plunge into cooking, let’s chat about the ingredients a bit more. First off, fresh green beans are fantastic, but if you’re in a pinch, frozen ones work just as well. Just remember to thaw and drain them.
The same goes for the mushrooms – you can use fresh or canned, depending on what’s hanging out in your pantry. And about that vegetable bouillon cube: it adds a depth of flavor that makes the sauce sing, so don’t skip it.
If you’re sensitive to salt, you might want to taste as you go, especially if your bouillon is on the salty side. Finally, feel free to play around with the spices; they’re your friends in this dish. Add more garlic if you’re a fan, or even toss in some nutritional yeast for an extra cheesy flavor.
The beauty of this casserole is that it’s flexible, just like me trying to do yoga after a long day of cooking. So gather your ingredients, and let’s get ready to make something delicious.
How to Make Vegan Green Bean Casserole
Alright, let’s plunge into making this Vegan Green Bean Casserole. First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to a cozy 350 degrees. Trust me, that warm oven is going to make everything better.
While that’s heating up, grab a saucepan and get ready to work some magic with 1 1/2 cups of unsweetened soymilk and 1 vegetable bouillon cube. You’ll want to heat the soy milk gently, stirring until the bouillon cube completely dissolves. Watch it closely so it doesn’t boil or scald—nobody wants curdled milk in their casserole.
In a separate pan, let’s sauté some deliciousness. Take 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and heat it over medium heat. Toss in 1/2 of a medium-sized onion (diced), 1 diced carrot, and 3/4 cup of sliced mushrooms. As those veggies soften, you’ll want to add a little flavor with 1/2 teaspoon each of salt, black pepper, garlic, basil, oregano, sage, marjoram, and thyme.
The aromas will fill your kitchen, and you’ll feel like a culinary genius in no time. Once your veggies are nicely sautéed, it’s time to thicken things up. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 1/2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Pour that mixture into the saucepan with your soy milk and bouillon, stirring quickly. It thickens fast, so don’t dawdle; we’re going for creamy goodness!
Now for the fun part—bringing it all together. Add in that can of 12 ounces of green beans, along with your sautéed veggies, and mix everything until it’s evenly combined. Here’s a pro tip: you can reserve about half of those crunchy 1 1/2 cups of French’s French fried onions for the topping later.
Pour your entire mixture into a casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Then, sprinkle the rest of those fried onions on top. They’re like little golden nuggets of joy that will crisp up beautifully in the oven.
Pop the casserole into your preheated oven and let it bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the onions start to turn golden brown. When you pull it out, just take a moment to appreciate that bubbling, crispy goodness. It’s hard to believe something so delicious is vegan, right? Enjoy!
Vegan Green Bean Casserole Substitutions & Variations
Have you ever thought about how easy it’s to tweak a classic dish like Vegan Green Bean Casserole?
I love experimenting with different ingredients! For a creamy twist, try substituting the soymilk with coconut or cashew milk.
If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, replace them with diced zucchini or bell peppers.
For added crunch, toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans.
You can also switch up the spices—add a pinch of cayenne for heat or some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Each variation brings a unique touch to this beloved dish!
What to Serve with Vegan Green Bean Casserole
After exploring the creative variations for Vegan Green Bean Casserole, let’s talk about what pairs perfectly with this dish.
I love serving it alongside hearty vegan proteins like lentil loaf or stuffed bell peppers. A fresh, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the casserole’s richness beautifully.
For a comforting touch, consider some creamy mashed potatoes made with plant-based milk and vegan butter. If you’re looking for a grain side, quinoa or wild rice adds a lovely texture.
Don’t forget a warm bread roll to soak up all those delicious flavors! Enjoy your meal!
Additional Tips & Notes
Although making a delicious Vegan Green Bean Casserole is straightforward, there are a few tips that can elevate your dish even further.
First, consider using fresh green beans for better texture and flavor. If you want a creamier sauce, try adding a splash of nutritional yeast or a dollop of vegan sour cream.
Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasonings before baking; sometimes a pinch more salt or herbs can make a big difference.
Finally, for a crispy topping, broil the casserole for a minute or two at the end. Trust me, it’s worth it! Enjoy your cooking!