Vegan String Bean Casserole Recipe for Easy Holiday Meals

There’s something incredibly comforting about a classic string bean casserole, especially during the cooler months when hearty dishes bring warmth and joy to the table. But what if you’re following a vegan lifestyle or simply want to enjoy a healthier version without compromising on flavor?

This vegan string bean casserole recipe is your new go-to. It’s creamy, crunchy, and packed with fresh green beans and mushrooms, all baked in a luscious plant-based sauce and topped with crispy fried onions that give that perfect golden finish.

Whether you’re serving it as a side for holiday dinners or a main dish for a cozy night in, this casserole brings together simple, wholesome ingredients in a way that will delight both vegans and non-vegans alike.

Plus, it’s easy to customize and made without any dairy or eggs, making it allergy-friendly and suitable for nearly everyone. Let’s dive into making a casserole that’s as nourishing as it is delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan string bean casserole is a beautiful twist on a traditional favorite, crafted to deliver all the nostalgic flavors without any animal products. Here’s why it stands out:

• Rich and Creamy: Thanks to a homemade vegan béchamel sauce, the casserole is decadently creamy without using dairy.
• Fresh and Flavorful: Crisp-tender green beans and sautéed mushrooms provide a wonderful texture and earthy notes.
• Crunchy Topping: Crispy fried onions add a satisfying crunch and golden color, making every bite delightful.
• Easy to Make: With simple pantry staples and fresh veggies, this recipe is straightforward for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile: Perfect for holiday occasions, weeknight dinners, or potlucks, and easily adaptable with your favorite seasonings or veggies.

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and halved
• 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp vegan butter or olive oil
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat)
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 1/2 cups crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (optional, for a cheesy flavor)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (for umami depth)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling green beans
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9×13 inch casserole dish
• Oven

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your casserole dish with a bit of vegan butter or oil.
2. Prepare the green beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the trimmed green beans and blanch for 4-5 minutes until just tender but still crisp. Drain and immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking. Drain again and set aside.
3. Sauté the mushrooms and onions: In a large skillet, melt the vegan butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 7-8 minutes.
4. Make the creamy sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir constantly for 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in the plant-based milk, ensuring the sauce becomes smooth and starts to thicken.
5. Season the sauce: Stir in the onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, black pepper, nutritional yeast, and soy sauce. Cook the sauce for another 3-4 minutes until thickened to a creamy consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Combine the green beans and sauce: Gently fold the blanched green beans into the skillet with the creamy mushroom sauce, ensuring each bean is coated.
7. Transfer to the casserole dish: Pour the green bean and mushroom mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading evenly.
8. Add the crispy topping: Sprinkle the crispy fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole for that signature crunchy layer.
9. Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the sauce is bubbling and the onions are golden brown.
10. Serve warm: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly and make scooping easier.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra burst of flavor, try adding 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary to the sauce.”

If you want to make your own crispy fried onions, thinly slice a large onion and toss with a little flour and salt, then fry in a shallow pan with oil until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels before topping the casserole.

For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or cornstarch (use 2 tablespoons for cornstarch) in the sauce.

You can also add other veggies like diced carrots, celery, or peas to the casserole for extra color and nutrition.

Looking to boost the protein content? Stir in cooked lentils or chickpeas into the creamy sauce before baking.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan string bean casserole is a perfect side for many meals but also works beautifully as a main dish when paired with hearty bread or grains.

• Serve alongside a fluffy vegan mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes for a complete comfort meal.
• Pair with quinoa, brown rice, or wild rice for a nutritious, filling dinner.
• Complement the casserole with a crisp, fresh salad tossed in a zesty vinaigrette to balance the richness.
• Don’t forget to try it with a dollop of vegan sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for extra freshness.

For more vegan comfort food inspiration, check out our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes or dive into Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for a sweet finish after your meal.

Conclusion

This vegan string bean casserole is a delightful way to enjoy a classic dish with a plant-based twist. Its creamy texture, savory mushrooms, and crispy onion topping create a comforting experience that’s perfect for family dinners or festive occasions.

With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe fits well into busy lifestyles without sacrificing taste or nutrition. Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or looking to add a new favorite to your repertoire, this casserole will quickly become a staple.

Don’t forget to explore other delicious vegan recipes like the Green Beans Vegan Recipe: Easy, Flavorful, and Healthy for more ways to enjoy vegetables creatively. Happy cooking!

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