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Homemade Soft Pretzel Bites

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  • Author: cozykitcheneats
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6–8 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Green bean casserole is a beloved classic made with tender green beans, a creamy mushroom sauce, and topped with crispy fried onions. It’s simple, satisfying, and always the first side dish to disappear at the dinner table!


Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces (or 2 cans/3 cups of drained green beans)

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 8 oz cremini or white mushrooms, sliced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

  • 1 cup whole milk

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or use all milk)

  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but tasty)

 

  • 1 1/2 cups crispy fried onions (like French’s)


Instructions

  • Prep the Green Beans:

    • If using fresh green beans, blanch in boiling water for 4–5 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.

    • If using canned beans, skip this step.

  • Make the Sauce:

    • In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook for 5–6 minutes until soft and browned.

    • Add garlic, salt, and pepper; cook for another minute.

    • Sprinkle in flour and stir for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk and cream.

    • Bring to a simmer and cook for 3–5 minutes, until thickened. Stir in Parmesan if using.

  • Assemble:

    • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

    • In a 9×13-inch baking dish, mix green beans with the mushroom sauce. Top with half the crispy fried onions.

 

  • Bake:

    • Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until hot and bubbly.

    • Top with remaining onions and bake for 5 more minutes, until golden and crispy.


Notes

  • Want to make it ahead? Assemble the casserole (without the final onion topping), cover and refrigerate up to 2 days ahead. Add final topping and bake when ready to serve.

  • For a shortcut, use 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup instead of making the sauce from scratch.

  • Add a dash of nutmeg or a splash of soy sauce for deeper flavor.