The first hint of autumn in the air always stirs my cravings for comforting dishes that feel like a warm hug. One such gem that has become a staple in my kitchen is this delightful Vegan Green Bean Casserole. You might think of this dish as just a side, but it’s so much more—it’s a celebration of fresh flavors that rivals any holiday feast.
I discovered that this casserole could be healthful without compromising on taste while hunting for a way to spice up my dinner routine. The blend of crisp green beans, savory mushrooms, and creamy coconut milk creates a satisfying medley that even non-vegans rave about. And the best part? It captures all the nostalgia of traditional casseroles without a hint of guilt.
With just a handful of ingredients and a quick prep time, this dish transforms into a bubbling masterpiece in your oven that will have your family eagerly gathering around the table. Let’s dive into how you can bring this wholesome, crowd-pleasing delight to your next gathering or cozy weeknight dinner!
Why You'll Love This Vegan Green Bean Casserole
- This Vegan Green Bean Casserole is incredibly easy to make, requiring just 15 minutes of prep time to get everything ready.
- The combination of fresh green beans and savory mushrooms creates a flavor explosion that’s sure to impress even the pickiest eaters.
- Its versatility shines through as it makes a perfect side dish for holiday meals, family dinners, or even a cozy weeknight feast.
- With its beautiful golden topping of crispy fried onions, this casserole is as visually appealing as it is delicious, making it an eye-catching addition to any table.
Vegan Green Bean Casserole Ingredients
• Here’s what you’ll need to recreate this comforting dish!
For the Casserole
- Fresh green beans – trim them for the best texture and flavor.
- Mushrooms – sliced, they add a rich, umami depth to the dish.
- Onion – diced, for a savory base that enhances all flavors.
- Vegetable broth – use low-sodium for better control over seasoning.
- Coconut milk – this provides a creamy, vegan alternative to traditional dairy.
- Flour – helps thicken the casserole, creating a luxurious sauce.
- Garlic powder – adds a warm, inviting flavor that complements the beans.
- Onion powder – enhances the onion flavor, making every bite rich.
- Salt and pepper – essential for balancing all the wonderful tastes.
For the Topping
- Crispy fried onions – these add a delightful crunch and elevate the Vegan Green Bean Casserole to new heights.
How to Make Vegan Green Bean Casserole
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a hot environment for even cooking and that perfect bubbling texture we all adore.
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Sauté the onions and mushrooms in a large saucepan until soft. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes over medium heat, letting their flavors meld beautifully.
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Combine the flour, garlic powder, and onion powder into the pan, stirring well until everything is nicely mixed. This will create a flavorful base for your casserole!
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Gradually add the vegetable broth and coconut milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens—about 3-5 minutes. You’re aiming for a creamy and smooth texture.
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Mix in the fresh green beans, and season generously with salt and pepper. Stir until all those vibrant beans are coated in the luscious sauce.
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Transfer the mixture into a casserole dish and spread it evenly. Top with crispy fried onions, giving it that lovely golden crunch we crave.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. Your kitchen will smell divine while this casserole works its magic!
Optional: Sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Green Bean Casserole preparations are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time while still delivering delicious meals! You can chop the vegetables (green beans, onions, and mushrooms) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can prepare the creamy sauce by combining the flour, garlic powder, and onion powder, and storing it separately in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy your casserole, simply sauté the vegetables, mix everything together in the casserole dish, top with crispy fried onions, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have a warm, comforting dish that tastes just as fresh and delightful, without the last-minute rush!
Vegan Green Bean Casserole Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize this vegan casserole with delightful twists that excite your palate!
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Gluten-Free: Replace flour with almond flour or cornstarch to make this dish gluten-free without losing creaminess.
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Cheesy Flavor: Add nutritional yeast to the sauce for a cheesy, nutty flavor that’s completely plant-based. Just a couple of tablespoons will do!
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Herbed Freshness: Stir in some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic kick. They deliver an enchanting essence that elevates the dish.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for a delightful heat that complements the creamy texture.
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Savory Mushroom Medley: Use a mix of different mushrooms like shiitake and cremini for varied flavors and textures, enhancing the umami goodness in every bite.
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Creamier Base: Substitute coconut milk with cashew cream for an even richer consistency. Blend soaked cashews with water until smooth to achieve this luxurious creamy delight!
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts on top along with the crispy onions for an added layer of crunch and nuttiness.
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Asian Twist: Incorporate soy sauce or sesame oil into the sauce for an unexpected flavor profile that adds a touch of zest to the classic casserole.
These variations allow you to customize your Vegan Green Bean Casserole, making it uniquely yours while keeping that comforting essence intact!
What to Serve with Vegan Green Bean Casserole?
Picture a cozy dinner gathering where everything is made with love, ensuring each dish complements the next.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their fluffy, buttery texture pairs beautifully with the hearty casserole, creating a comforting plate that feels like home.
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Buttery Cornbread: The sweet, moist cornbread adds a delightful contrast that balances the savory flavors of the green bean casserole.
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Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their crispy edges and nutty flavor elevate the meal while keeping it healthy and vibrant.
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Cranberry Sauce: This tangy, sweet addition cuts through the richness beautifully, offering a refreshing burst that brightens the whole dish.
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Garden Salad: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette brings a crisp, zesty contrast to the creamy casserole.
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Red Wine: A glass of velvety red wine will enhance the flavors of the entire meal, providing warmth and depth as you savor each bite.
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Pumpkin Pie: For a sweet finish, a slice of pumpkin pie evokes comforting autumn flavors that will leave guests feeling satisfied and nostalgic.
How to Store and Freeze Vegan Green Bean Casserole
Fridge: Store your leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Freezer: If you plan to freeze the casserole, let it cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For best results, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
Serving: Make sure to mix well after reheating, as the sauce may settle. Your delicious Vegan Green Bean Casserole will still be packed with flavor!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the Vegan Green Bean Casserole, make sure to trim your green beans properly to enhance both texture and flavor.
- When sautéing onions and mushrooms, cook them until they are nicely caramelized for a deeper flavor profile.
- To achieve a creamy consistency in the sauce, gradually whisk in the vegetable broth and coconut milk while stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Keep an eye on the casserole while it bakes to ensure it doesn’t over-brown, the perfect bake time is around 25-30 minutes or until it’s bubbly and golden.
Vegan Green Bean Casserole Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting green beans?
Absolutely! When choosing fresh green beans, look for those that are vibrant green, firm, and crispy. Avoid beans that have dark spots, wrinkled skin, or any sign of wilting. You want beans that snap easily when bent to ensure they’re fresh and at their peak.
How can I store leftover Vegan Green Bean Casserole?
Great question! Store your leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through—around 15-20 minutes will usually do the trick!
Can I freeze Vegan Green Bean Casserole?
Very much so! To freeze, first let the casserole cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.
What if my sauce didn’t thicken as expected?
No worries! If your sauce doesn’t thicken as you’d like, you can easily fix this. Return the mixture to the stove over medium heat, and in a separate bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of flour with a little cold vegetable broth until smooth. Stir this mixture into the casserole, continuing to heat while stirring until thickened, about 3-5 minutes. It’s an easy fix, and you’ll still get that creamy texture!
Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
Absolutely! Since this Vegan Green Bean Casserole is plant-based, it avoids common allergens like dairy and meat. However, if you’re cooking for someone with gluten allergies, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Always double-check your ingredient labels for any hidden allergens, especially in toppings like crispy fried onions!
Can my pets eat this casserole?
It’s best to avoid giving your pets any casserole. The ingredients in the Vegan Green Bean Casserole are safe for humans but may not be suitable for your furry friends. Onions, for instance, can be toxic to dogs and cats. Stick to pet-friendly treats for your beloved companions!
Vegan Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Sauté the onions and mushrooms in a large saucepan until soft for about 5-7 minutes over medium heat.
- Combine the flour, garlic powder, and onion powder into the pan, stirring well until mixed.
- Gradually add the vegetable broth and coconut milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Mix in the fresh green beans, and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture into a casserole dish and top with crispy fried onions.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
