French Onion Green Bean Casserole
Elevate Campbell’s green bean casserole with French onion flair! Caramelized onions & Gruyère take this classic holiday casserole to the next level. Get the recipe!

Right then, let's dive into this!
Recipe Introduction: Ooh La La! French Onion Green Bean Casserole
Ever sat there, staring at the same old green bean casserole campbells recipe and thought, "needs a bit of oomph , doesn't it?" honestly, i have.
And that’s why i decided to jazz things up. today, we're making a french onion green bean casserole that's gonna knock your socks off.
It takes that classic comfort dish, gives it a sophisticated, french twist, and, oh my gosh, it’s delicious. this recipe blends the original creamy texture with the deep, savory flavors of french onion soup.
A Classic Goes French
The original green bean casserole campbells is a staple at many holiday tables. we're talkin' thanksgiving, christmas, you name it.
It's pure americana. but where does the french onion vibe come from? i thought it was time to elevate our holiday casseroles .
This is a medium-level recipe, taking around 1 hour 15 minutes, and it serves 6-8 hungry folks.
Why You'll Love This Casserole
Forget boring sides! the main benefit here? it's all about flavour. the caramelized onions bring this savory depth that's just amazing.
You know, something to make people say, "wow, this isn't just any old casserole." perfect for a special occasion, this french onion green bean casserole feels fancy without being fussy.
I think it is a good alternative to ba’s best green bean casserole .
Ready to Get Started? Let's gather the ingredients.
Alright, let's dive into what you'll need to make this french onion green bean casserole . honestly, this is where the magic happens.
Forget your sad desk lunch. this is ooh la la comfort!
French Onion Green Bean Casserole Recipe Card

⚖️ Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (28g)
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced (about 2 cups, approximately 300g)
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (4g)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (3g)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (1g)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (15ml)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (28g)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (6g)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour (30g)
- 2 cups chicken broth (480ml)
- ½ cup heavy cream (120ml)
- 2 tablespoons dry sherry (30ml)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (3g), or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (1g), or to taste
- 1 ½ pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and halved (about 680g) or 2 (14.5 ounce) cans green beans, drained
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (about 100g)
- 1 (6-ounce) can crispy fried onions (French’s or similar brand), divided (170g)
🥄 Instructions:
- Melt butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add onions, sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 30-40 minutes, or until onions are deeply golden brown and caramelized. Visual Cue: Onions should be a rich, dark brown color and very soft.
- Melt butter in the same skillet (wiped clean) over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream until smooth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened (about 5 minutes). Stir in sherry, salt, and pepper. Visual Cue: Sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- If using fresh green beans, steam or blanch them until crisp-tender. Drain well. Doneness Test: Beans should be bright green and easily pierced with a fork, but still have a slight bite.
- In a large bowl, combine the caramelized onions, sauce, green beans (fresh or canned, drained), and half of the Gruyère cheese.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining Gruyère cheese and half of the crispy fried onions over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Sprinkle the remaining crispy fried onions over the top and bake for another 3-5 minutes, or until onions are golden brown. Visual Cue: Onions should be nicely browned, but not burnt.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Ingredients & Equipment: The Key to Frenchified Goodness
So, you wanna whip up something special? this ain't your mama's campbell’s green bean casserole recipe (though, bless her heart, that's a classic!).
This french onion green bean casserole is a bit fancier. let's gather our supplies! this recipe combines the best of all worlds, merging a classic green bean casserole with the comforting depth of french onion soup .
Main Ingredients: Let's Get Specific
First off, the stars of the show. I have learned from experience that accurate measurements makes or breaks a dish,
-
Caramelized Onions:
- Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons (28g) – Good quality butter makes a difference. Trust me.
- Yellow onions, thinly sliced: 2 large (about 2 cups, 300g) – Look for firm onions without bruises.
- Granulated sugar: 1 teaspoon (4g)
- Kosher salt: ½ teaspoon (3g)
- Black pepper: ¼ teaspoon (1g)
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon (15ml)
-
Casserole Assembly:
- Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons (28g)
- Garlic, minced: 2 cloves (6g)
- All-purpose flour: ¼ cup (30g)
- Chicken broth: 2 cups ( 480ml )
- Heavy cream: ½ cup (120ml)
- Dry sherry: 2 tablespoons (30ml)
- Kosher salt: ½ teaspoon (3g), or to taste
- Black pepper: ¼ teaspoon (1g), or to taste
- Green beans, trimmed and halved: 1 ½ pounds fresh (680g) OR 2 (14.5 ounce) cans, drained
- Gruyère cheese, shredded: 1 cup (100g)
- Crispy fried onions ( French’s or similar ): 1 (6-ounce) can , divided (170g)
Seasoning Notes: The Umami Factor
Okay, listen up. the right seasoning is crucial. we are aiming for an umami bomb, ok? these flavors are the soul of both a french onion soup and a great original green bean casserole campbells .
- Essential Spice Combinations: Salt, pepper, and a smidge of sugar are key for the onions. They draw out the sweetness.
- Flavor Enhancers and Aromatics: Garlic, Sherry, and Gruyere is a match made in heaven.
- Quick Substitution Options: No sherry? A splash of dry white wine works, too. For a Ba’s Best Green Bean Casserole twist, try a dash of Worcestershire.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple, Stupid
Don't go buying a whole new kitchen. You likely have some of these already. We are doing Holiday Casseroles , not rocket science.
- Essential Tools:
- Large skillet or Dutch oven for them onions!
- 9x13 inch baking dish Gotta bake it in something, innit?
- Whisk No lumps allowed!
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Common Household Alternatives:
- Don't have a fancy whisk? A fork works in a pinch.
Honestly, that's it. we're not splitting the atom here. just building layers of flavor in this amazing french onion green bean casserole .
It's a real step up from just the green bean casserole campbells recipe.
Now get out there and cook something amazing. You got this!

French Onion Green Bean Casserole: Ooh La La Layers of Comfort
Honestly, who doesn't love a good green bean casserole? but sometimes, you just want something a little more , you know? something that whispers "ooh la la" instead of just plain "yum.
" that’s where this french onion green bean casserole comes in. it's like the classic green bean casserole , but after a trip to paris!
Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place is Key
First things first, let's get organised. this is essential mise en place, people! chop those two large yellow onions (about 2 cups) into thin slices.
Mince two cloves of garlic . measure out your chicken broth, heavy cream, and dry sherry . trust me, this saves time later.
Safety reminder? don't cut yourself! a sharp knife is safer than a dull one, honestly.
Step-by-Step to French Casserole Perfection
Ready to cook? Here we go!
- Caramelize the Onions: Melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add onions, 1 teaspoon granulated sugar, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper . Cook, stirring occasionally, for 30- 40 minutes , until deeply golden brown and caramelized. Visual Cue: Rich, dark brown color.
- Whip Up the Sauce: Melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Whisk in ¼ cup all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute . Gradually whisk in 2 cups chicken broth and ½ cup heavy cream until smooth. Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened. Stir in 2 tablespoons dry sherry, ½ teaspoon kosher salt , and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Visual Cue: Coats the back of a spoon.
- Cook the Beans (If Fresh): Steam or blanch 1 ½ pounds fresh green beans until crisp-tender. Doneness Test: Bright green, slightly firm.
- Assemble the Magic: In a large bowl, combine the caramelized onions, sauce, green beans (fresh or drained canned), and half of the 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese.
- Transfer the Mixture: Pour into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Bake it: Sprinkle the remaining Gruyère and half of the 1 (6-ounce) can crispy fried onions on top. Bake at 350° F ( 175° C) for 20- 25 minutes , until bubbly and golden brown.
- The Final Touch: Sprinkle the remaining crispy fried onions and bake for another 3- 5 minutes . Visual Cue: Golden brown, not burnt!
- Cool and Serve: Let cool briefly before serving.
Pro Tips for a Casserole That Wows
Honestly, the best tip i can give you is don’t rush the onions. caramelizing them properly makes a huge difference.
Another tip? don't be afraid to experiment with different cheeses. swiss or comté would be lush! common mistake? overbaking. you want it bubbly, not dried out.
French's fried onion green bean casserole is a classic for a reason, but this version is next level!
So, there you have it! a french onion green bean casserole that's sure to impress. ditch that original green bean casserole campbells , and say bonjour to a new favourite.
Enjoy, mes amis!
Alright, let's dive into the nitty-gritty of this french onion green bean casserole . i'm sharing all my little secrets. honestly, this ain't your grandma's original green bean casserole campbells recipe.
We're jazzing it up!
Recipe Notes: Because Details Matter!
Honestly? It's the little things that elevate this from just another Green Bean Casserole Campbells to something truly special.
Serving It Up: Plating & Pairings
Alright, let's talk presentation. think rustic chic. a spoonful of this french onion green bean casserole plated next to a perfectly roasted chicken? chef's kiss .
I would serve it with some golden mashed potatoes. a crisp, dry white wine complements the richness. you know? think sauvignon blanc.
Storage Superpowers
Listen up! Got leftovers? Let's keep them tasty.
- Refrigeration: This beauty will keep for about 3-4 days in the fridge. Always store it in an airtight container.
- Freezing: Honestly? I don't recommend freezing this. The texture of the beans and sauce can change. It's better fresh, innit?
- Reheating: Gently reheat in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) until warmed through. You can microwave, but the onions might get a bit soggy.
Variations: Let's Get Creative!
Okay, so maybe you're veggie? No worries, mate!
- Veggie Version: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, easy peasy!
- GF Option: Want a gluten-free Ba’s Best Green Bean Casserole ? Just swap out the flour for a gluten-free blend. Ensure your French’s Fried Onion Green Bean Casserole topping is GF too.
Nutrition Know-How
Right, so, simplified: this french onion green bean casserole has a good dose of fiber from the french green beans , plus some protein.
The onions also bring some vitamins to the party. but hey, it's still a casserole, so enjoy it in moderation!
This recipe aims for approximately 350 calories per serving, 12g of protein, and 25g of fat. But remember, that's just an estimate!
I always thought campbell’s green bean casserole was pretty simple, but this is even more delicious. consider this a delicious addition to your holiday casseroles line-up! don't be afraid to experiment with this campbell’s green bean casserole recipe .

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this french onion green bean casserole ahead of time? I'm a busy bee!
Absolutely! You can assemble the entire french onion green bean casserole (up to the point of adding the final crispy onions) a day or two in advance and store it, covered, in the fridge. Just add the remaining crispy fried onions right before baking for that perfect crunch. Think of it like prepping your outfit the night before a big day – less stress on the day itself!
Help! My caramelized onions are burning. What am I doing wrong with my french onion green bean casserole?
Oh dear, burning onions are a common kitchen hiccup! The key is low and slow heat. Make sure your heat is on medium-low, and stir frequently, especially towards the end of the cooking time. If they're browning too quickly, add a tablespoon or two of water to the pan to deglaze it and slow down the caramelization. This is a marathon, not a sprint, so channel your inner tortoise!
I'm not a huge fan of Gruyère. What other cheese can I use in this french onion green bean casserole recipe?
No worries, cheese preferences are a personal thing! Gruyère offers a nutty flavor, but you can definitely swap it out. Swiss cheese would be a great substitute for a similar mild, nutty taste. You could also use Comté for a slightly stronger, more complex flavor. Just like choosing your favourite Doctor Who, there's a cheese for every palate!
Can I use canned green beans instead of fresh in my french onion green bean casserole?
You sure can! Canned green beans are a perfectly acceptable shortcut. Just make sure to drain them really well to avoid a watery casserole. You might also want to reduce the amount of salt you add, as canned beans can be a bit salty already. Think of it as using a ready-made shortcut in the Great British Baking Show tent - it might not win star baker, but it'll do in a pinch!
How should I store leftover French Onion Green Bean Casserole?
Store any leftover French Onion Green Bean Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for 3-4 days. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it, but be aware that the crispy fried onions will lose some of their crunch. Just remember, like a good cup of tea, it might not be quite as good as the first time, but still perfectly enjoyable!
Is there any way to make this French Onion Green Bean Casserole a bit healthier?
Definitely! You can lighten it up by using low-fat cream cheese instead of heavy cream, or even Greek yogurt for extra protein. You could also reduce the amount of butter used to caramelize the onions. Steaming your own fresh green beans ensures you are not consuming additional preservatives. Remember, even Mary Berry appreciates a healthy twist now and then!
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