Green Bean Casserole with Ham and Parmesan

Growing up, green bean casserole was a staple at every holiday gathering. While the classic creamy mushroom and crispy fried onion version held a certain nostalgic charm, I always felt it could be… more. More flavor, more texture, more oomph. So, a few years back, I decided to take matters into my own hands and elevate this beloved side dish into something truly spectacular. Enter my Green Bean Casserole with Ham and Parmesan.

This isn’t your grandma’s green bean casserole – unless your grandma was secretly a culinary genius hiding a gourmet recipe up her sleeve! The addition of savory, smoky ham and the nutty, salty bite of Parmesan cheese transforms the humble green bean casserole into a sophisticated and utterly irresistible dish. The creamy base is still there, comforting and familiar, but now it’s layered with rich umami and delightful textural contrasts. My family, initially skeptical of any changes to tradition, devoured it. Now, it’s not just requested, it’s demanded at every holiday meal and potluck. Trust me, once you try this Green Bean Casserole with Ham and Parmesan, you’ll never look at the classic version the same way again. It’s the perfect blend of comfort food nostalgia and elevated flavor, guaranteed to impress even the most discerning palates.

Ingredients: The Building Blocks of Flavor

This recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients, but the quality of each component contributes significantly to the final dish. Here’s what you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece:

• Fresh Green Beans: (1.5 lbs, trimmed and halved or cut into bite-sized pieces) – Fresh green beans provide a vibrant, crisp-tender texture that canned beans simply can’t match. Look for firm, bright green beans for the best results.
• Cooked Ham: (8 oz, diced into small cubes) – Smoked ham adds a wonderful savory depth and smoky flavor that complements the creamy casserole beautifully. Leftover holiday ham is ideal, but any good quality cooked ham will work.
• Yellow Onion: (1 medium, finely chopped) – Onions form the aromatic base of many great dishes. Yellow onions offer a balanced flavor that sweetens as they cook.
• Garlic: (2 cloves, minced) – Garlic adds a pungent, aromatic layer that enhances the overall flavor profile. Freshly minced garlic is always preferred for its brighter taste.
• Cremini Mushrooms: (8 oz, sliced) – Cremini mushrooms (also known as baby bellas) have a deeper, earthier flavor than white button mushrooms, adding complexity to the casserole.
• Unsalted Butter: (4 tablespoons) – Butter provides richness and helps to sauté the vegetables to perfection. Unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level in the dish.
• All-Purpose Flour: (3 tablespoons) – Flour acts as a thickening agent for the creamy sauce, ensuring a luscious texture.
• Milk: (2 cups, whole milk or 2%) – Milk forms the liquid base of the creamy sauce. Whole milk will result in a richer, creamier sauce, but 2% works well too.
• Chicken Broth: (1 cup, low sodium) – Chicken broth adds depth of flavor to the sauce and complements the ham and mushrooms. Low sodium broth allows you to control the saltiness.
• Heavy Cream: (1/2 cup) – Heavy cream adds extra richness and luxuriousness to the sauce, making it incredibly decadent.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: (1 cup, plus extra for topping) – Parmesan cheese provides a salty, nutty, and umami-rich flavor that elevates the casserole. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best taste and melting quality. Avoid pre-grated Parmesan as it often contains cellulose and doesn’t melt as smoothly.
• Dried Thyme: (1 teaspoon) – Thyme adds a subtle earthy and slightly minty flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
• Salt: (To taste) – Salt enhances the flavors of all the ingredients. Season to taste, being mindful of the saltiness of the ham and Parmesan.
• Black Pepper: (Freshly ground, to taste) – Freshly ground black pepper adds a pungent and aromatic spice that balances the richness of the casserole.
• Crispy Fried Onions: (1 (6-ounce) can) – Crispy fried onions provide a classic crunchy topping that adds textural contrast and savory onion flavor.
• Optional: Fresh Parsley: (Chopped, for garnish) – Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note as a garnish.

Instructions: Crafting the Perfect Casserole

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a Green Bean Casserole with Ham and Parmesan that will impress everyone:

1. Prepare the Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the trimmed and halved green beans and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until they are bright green and crisp-tender. Don’t overcook them; they will continue to cook in the oven. Drain the green beans immediately and plunge them into an ice bath to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant color. Once cooled, drain them again thoroughly and set aside. This blanching process ensures perfectly textured green beans in your casserole.
2. Sauté the Aromatics and Mushrooms: In a large, oven-safe skillet (cast iron or stainless steel works well) or a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and sliced cremini mushrooms and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the mushrooms are softened and have released their moisture, and the onions are lightly golden. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Sautéing the onions and mushrooms develops their flavors and creates a rich base for the sauce.
3. Create the Creamy Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This step is crucial for thickening the sauce without lumps. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps of flour. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly, and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Simmering allows the sauce to thicken and the flour to cook out, preventing a raw flour taste.
4. Incorporate the Ham and Parmesan: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the Parmesan cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. The Parmesan cheese melts into the sauce, adding its signature salty, nutty flavor, while the ham infuses the casserole with savory goodness.
5. Combine Green Beans and Sauce: Add the blanched green beans and diced ham to the creamy sauce in the skillet and stir gently to combine everything evenly. Ensure the green beans and ham are well coated with the sauce.
6. Top with Fried Onions and Parmesan (Optional): If using an oven-safe skillet, you can proceed directly to baking. If using a saucepan, transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the top of the casserole evenly with the crispy fried onions. For an extra cheesy touch, sprinkle additional grated Parmesan cheese over the fried onions.
7. Bake to Golden Perfection: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until it is bubbly around the edges and the topping is golden brown and crispy. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven.
8. Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly and the flavors to meld together even further. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot. Enjoy your elevated Green Bean Casserole with Ham and Parmesan!

Nutrition Facts: A Glance at the Goodness

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

Servings: Approximately 8-10 servings

Calories per serving (estimated): 350-450 calories (depending on serving size and ingredient choices)

• Fat: 25-35g
• Saturated Fat: 15-20g

This Green Bean Casserole with Ham and Parmesan provides a good source of protein from the ham and Parmesan, and fiber from the green beans. It’s also a source of calcium and vitamins from the dairy and vegetables. However, it’s also relatively high in fat and sodium, so moderation is key as part of a balanced diet.

Preparation Time: From Prep to Plate

This recipe is relatively straightforward and doesn’t require extensive prep time, making it a great option for holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners.

• Prep Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes (includes trimming green beans, chopping vegetables, and dicing ham).
• Cook Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes (includes sautéing vegetables, making sauce, and baking).
• Total Time: Approximately 50-60 minutes.

While the total time is around an hour, much of it is hands-off baking time, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your meal preparation. You can also save time by using pre-diced ham and pre-sliced mushrooms.

How to Serve: Perfect Pairings and Occasions

Green Bean Casserole with Ham and Parmesan is a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses and is suitable for numerous occasions.

• Holiday Feasts:
  • Thanksgiving: A classic addition to your Thanksgiving spread alongside turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.
  • Christmas: Perfect with roasted ham, prime rib, or roasted chicken for a festive Christmas dinner.
  • Easter: A delightful side dish for Easter ham, lamb, or a spring-inspired brunch.
• Weeknight Dinners:
  • Roasted Chicken or Pork: Complements the savory flavors of roasted poultry or pork chops.
  • Grilled Steak or Salmon: Adds a creamy and comforting element to grilled proteins.
  • Meatloaf or Pot Roast: A classic comfort food pairing that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight meal.
• Potlucks and Gatherings:
  • Bring-a-Dish Events: Travels well and is always a crowd-pleaser at potlucks and picnics.
  • Family Reunions: A comforting and familiar dish that everyone will enjoy.
  • Casual Get-Togethers: Perfect for BBQs, game days, or any casual gathering where you want a delicious and easy-to-serve side dish.
• Serving Suggestions:
  • Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness before serving.
  • Warm Bread: Serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls for soaking up the delicious creamy sauce.
  • Salad: Pair with a light and refreshing salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
  • Wine Pairing: A medium-bodied Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio would complement the flavors of this casserole nicely.

Additional Tips: Secrets to Casserole Success

Elevate your Green Bean Casserole with Ham and Parmesan to the next level with these helpful tips and tricks:

1. Use Fresh Green Beans: While frozen can work in a pinch, fresh green beans provide the best texture and flavor. Blanching them properly ensures they retain their crisp-tender bite.
2. Don’t Overcook the Green Beans: Blanch them just until bright green and crisp-tender. They will continue to cook in the oven, and overcooked green beans will become mushy.
3. Sauté the Vegetables Properly: Take the time to sauté the onions and mushrooms until they are softened and lightly golden. This develops their flavor and creates a richer sauce.
4. Use Good Quality Ham: The flavor of the ham is a key component. Choose a good quality smoked ham for the best taste. Leftover holiday ham is perfect!
5. Freshly Grate Parmesan: Pre-grated Parmesan often contains cellulose and doesn’t melt as smoothly. Freshly grated Parmesan will melt beautifully into the sauce and provide a superior flavor.
6. Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste the sauce before adding the green beans and ham, and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Remember that ham and Parmesan are both salty, so season cautiously.
7. Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Dish: If you are doubling the recipe, use a larger baking dish or divide it into two dishes to ensure even baking and prevent the casserole from becoming soggy.
8. Make Ahead for Convenience: You can assemble the casserole (up to the baking step) a day ahead of time. Cover and refrigerate it. Bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes of baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator. This makes holiday meal prep much easier!

FAQ: Your Casserole Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions about Green Bean Casserole with Ham and Parmesan to ensure your casserole creation is a success:

Q1: Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can use frozen green beans. Thaw them completely and drain well before blanching them briefly. Frozen green beans may be slightly softer than fresh, but they will still work well.

Q2: Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
A: To make it vegetarian, simply omit the ham. You can add other vegetables like roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts for added flavor and texture. Consider using a vegetarian broth as well.

Q3: Can I use canned green beans?
A: While fresh or frozen green beans are recommended for the best texture, you can use canned green beans in a pinch. Drain them well and skip the blanching step. Be aware that canned green beans will be softer and may result in a less flavorful casserole.

Q4: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Yes, you can experiment with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile. However, Parmesan cheese is classic for its nutty and salty notes that complement the other ingredients.

Q5: Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
A: To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce instead of regular flour. Also, ensure that your chicken broth and crispy fried onions are certified gluten-free. Many brands of crispy fried onions contain wheat flour.

Q6: How do I store leftover green bean casserole?
A: Store leftover green bean casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Q7: How do I reheat leftover green bean casserole?
A: Reheat leftover green bean casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the topping may lose some of its crispiness.

Q8: Can I make this casserole ahead and freeze it?
A: It is not recommended to freeze the assembled casserole before baking as the creamy sauce may separate and the texture of the green beans may become mushy upon thawing and baking. However, you can prepare the sauce and blanch the green beans ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake the casserole just before serving.

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