Green Bean Casserole recipe for Thanksgiving

This is the very classic Green Bean Casserole recipe for Thanksgiving.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 1/2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 slices bacon, chopped (optional for added flavor)
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 1/2 cups French-fried onions (for topping)

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Blanch the Green Beans:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender. Drain and transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again and set aside.

3. Cook Bacon and Almonds (Optional):

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove bacon from the pan and set aside. In the same skillet, add sliced almonds and cook until lightly toasted. Remove almonds and set aside.

4. Make the Sauce:

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic, stirring continuously for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux.

Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth and milk. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Combine Ingredients:

Add the blanched green beans, crispy bacon (if using), toasted almonds, and grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir until the green beans are well coated.

6. Bake:

Transfer the green bean mixture to a baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.

7. Top with French-Fried Onions:

In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle French-fried onions over the top of the casserole and return to the oven until they are golden and crispy.

8. Serve:

Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your classic Green Bean Casserole as a delicious side dish for Thanksgiving!