If there’s one side dish that can steal the spotlight at a holiday dinner, it’s green bean casserole. This elevated version takes the familiar classic and turns it into something unforgettable. With the tangy creaminess of cream cheese, the earthy richness of mushrooms, and a subtle crunch from celery, every bite bursts with flavor and texture. This isn’t just a side — it’s the kind of dish guests will request year after year.
Ingredients for Creamy Green Bean Casserole
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1 stick (113 g) butter, divided
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1 dozen crimini mushrooms, sliced
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2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
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3 large celery stalks, thinly sliced (almost see-through)
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2 cups (1 large) sweet yellow onion, diced
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2 cans evaporated milk, 5 oz each (150 ml each) – not sweetened condensed milk
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2 packages cream cheese at room temperature, cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes
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1 Tbsp Emeril’s Original Seasoning
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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3 cans cut or French-style green beans
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1/2 cup (50 g) Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
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1/2 cup (50 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
How to Make Creamy Green Bean Casserole
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a 3-quart (2.8-liter) saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of the butter over medium-high heat until bubbly. Sauté the sliced mushrooms until tender and almost dry. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
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Using the same saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add celery and onion; sauté until soft. Reduce heat to medium, then stir in cream cheese, evaporated milk, and the remaining butter. Whisk until smooth, then add the seasoning, salt, and pepper. Gently fold in the green beans.
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Pour the green bean mixture into a 13 x 9-inch (33 x 23 cm) baking dish. Evenly sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top, followed by cheddar cheese. Arrange the cooked mushroom slices over the cheese layer. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and browning slightly around the edges.
A Holiday Side Worth Remembering
This creamy, cheesy green bean casserole isn’t just a filler side dish — it’s a scene-stealer. The balance of flavors, from the earthy mushrooms to the tangy cream cheese, makes it perfect for festive gatherings. Serve it once, and you’ll find it becoming a non-negotiable on your holiday menu.
