Ingredients:
For the crispy topping:
- 1/2 cup whole wheat panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
For the green beans:
- 1.5 lbs fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 8 oz cremini (baby bella) mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
For the creamy sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour alternative)
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
Instructions:
- Prep the beans: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes until crisp-tender. Drain and set aside.
- Make the topping: In a small bowl, combine panko, Parmesan, parsley, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown (another 5 minutes). Stir in garlic and thyme toward the end.
- Make the sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter. Whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in broth and milk. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and whisk in Greek yogurt.
- Assemble the casserole: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Combine green beans, vegetables, and sauce. Transfer to the baking dish.
- Top and bake: Sprinkle the breadcrumb topping evenly over the casserole. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and topping is golden-brown.
- Rest and serve: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips:
- Make it vegan: Use vegan butter, vegan milk, a vegan cheese alternative, and a vegan yogurt substitute.
- Adjust the crispiness: For a crunchier topping, bake for a few additional minutes or broil for 1-2 minutes near the end.
- Get creative: Add other veggies like carrots or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Enjoy your lighter and healthier green bean casserole!
