This gluten free green bean casserole recipe is made with fresh green beans and a mushroom sauce. Check out all these easy make-ahead Thanksgiving recipes.
Classic Green bean casserole is beloved, especially during Thanksgiving and Christmas.
However, enjoying this side dish can be challenging for those with dietary restrictions or allergies.
Fortunately, making a gluten-free version of green bean casserole is possible and delicious. With a homemade cream of mushroom soup and a simple switch with your toppings, this fresh recipe will be your new family favorite.
This comprehensive guide provides step-by-step instructions on creating a gluten-free green bean casserole.
Additionally, we’ll explore the benefits of freezing this dish and answer frequently asked questions to ensure your gluten-free green bean casserole is always ready to serve.
How to Make the Best Gluten Free Green Bean Casserole (how to freeze)
Scroll down to the bottom for the recipe with a complete ingredient list and step-by-step instructions for this traditional green bean casserole.
Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and canned fried onions.
Mix well with two tablespoons of olive oil (or melted butter).
Pour into a resealable bag for storage, if freezing this dish.
How to Blanch Green Beans:
Blanching green beans is a quick cooking method where fresh green beans are briefly boiled in hot water for 4 minutes until they become bright green and slightly tender.
Blanching helps to preserve the beans’ vibrant color, texture, and nutrients, while also halting the cooking process, making them ideal for use in various dishes or for future storage.
Immediately following this process, you plunge the beans into ice water, creating an “ice bath” that rapidly cools them down.
Set aside.
Prepare the Gluten Free Cream of Mushroom Soup:
In the same hot pot you boiled the green beans, melt the unsalted butter over medium-high heat.
Add the sliced mushrooms, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until they release moisture and it evaporates, approximately 6 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, taking care not to let it burn.
Add the gluten-free flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, stirring continuously.
Add the heavy cream, reduce the heat to medium, and simmer until the sauce thickens and reduces to about 3 1/2 cups, which will take approximately 12 minutes.
Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine the Green Beans and Sauce:
Add the blanched green beans to the cream sauce, stirring until they are evenly coated.
Arrange the mixture in an even layer in a 3-quart (or 13 x 9″) baking dish.
Prepare for Freezing:
Store the panko and onion topping in a resealable bag or container in your pantry (to keep it from getting soggy in the freezer).
Freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe container or disposable foil pan.
Here are some frequently asked questions about how to make this gluten-free green bean casserole recipe:
How to Make Green Bean Casserole Gluten-Free?
Are you following a gluten-free diet? This recipe is gluten-free. This is made possible through these recommended substitutions:
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
You can substitute dairy-free alternatives like almond, coconut, or oat milk for regular milk and use dairy-free butter to achieve a dairy-free green bean casserole.
Is Panko Gluten Free?
Panko breadcrumbs are light and airy Japanese-style breadcrumbs commonly used for breading and frying foods.
Regular panko is not gluten-free.
Gluten-free panko breadcrumbs are a variation of traditional panko breadcrumbs that do not contain gluten, making them suitable for people with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
You can find this ingredient in most well-stocked grocery stores, usually in the following store locations:
- Gluten-Free Aisle: Many grocery stores have a dedicated gluten-free section where you can find gluten-free products, including breadcrumbs. Look for the gluten-free panko breadcrumbs in this section. This aisle may also contain other gluten-free products like pasta, flour, and snacks.
- Baking Aisle: Sometimes, gluten-free breadcrumbs, including panko, may be in the baking aisle with other baking supplies. Check near the regular breadcrumbs and flour.
- Specialty Food Section: Some grocery stores place gluten-free items, including panko breadcrumbs, in a specialty or health food section. Be sure to explore this area if your store has one.
Be aware even if the product is labeled as gluten-free, be aware that cross-contamination can occur during production.
If you have a severe gluten allergy or sensitivity, you may want to contact the manufacturer to inquire about their cross-contamination prevention measures.
Are French’s Fried Onions Gluten Free?
The French’s Fried Onions ingredient list includes onions, palm oil, wheat flour, dextrose & salt. They are not gluten-free because they contain wheat.
Many store brands offer gluten-free options, especially around the holidays.
We have had incredible success with the ALDI gluten-free french fried onions, but you can also check here for a variety of online grocery options.
This gluten-free ingredient is always available around the holidays, so stock up when you see it!
Can you Freeze Gluten Free Green Bean Casserole?
This gluten free casserole is a make-ahead freezer recipe, but you must store the prepared topping separately.
Store the onion and panko topping in a resealable baggie and place it in your pantry.
Place the prepared casserole in a freezer-safe container or a foil pan, sealing it securely to prevent freezer burn.
Allow the casserole to thaw in the refrigerator for 1-3 days before your event, and keep it covered with plastic wrap.
What Freezer-Safe Container Should I Prepare This Gluten Free Green Bean Casserole In?
Selecting the right containers can make all the difference in freezing dishes. Here are some options:
- Glass or Plastic Containers: If you prefer something more durable, consider investing in glass or BPA-free plastic containers with airtight lids. They can be reused for future freezing needs.
- Foil Pans or Containers: These come in various sizes and are ideal for freezing casseroles. They’re easy to stack in the freezer and can be recycled afterward. I purchase these from my local dollar store.
Looking for more great dishes to make ahead? Check out these other ideas from MomAdvice.com.
Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Recipes
Cranberry Sauce with Orange Juice
Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes
Gluten-Free Stuffing Recipe
Make-Ahead Gravy Recipe
Did you try this recipe? We would love to hear what you thought of this holiday classic side dish!
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