Ingredients for topping:

6 Tbsp. unsalted butter
1/2 cup finely sliced shallots (about 2 shallots)
1 box Absolutely Gluten Free Crackers
1/2 tsp. Kosher salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper
1/4 tsp. onion powder
1/4 tsp. garlic powder

Ingredients for Casserole:

1 stick unsalted butter
1/4 cup chopped shallots (about 1 shallot)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp. Kosher salt
1/2 tsp. black pepper
1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
8 oz button mushrooms, chopped finely
1 Tbsp. fresh thyme leaves
1 lb French green beans (haricots verts), trimmed
8 Tbsp. flour
20 oz chicken stock, plus more if needed
Fresh chopped herbs, like chives

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter for the topping. Add the shallots and cook slowly for about 10–15 minutes, or until just browned. Remove the shallots with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Reserve the shallot-infused butter.
3. In a food processor, pulse the Absolutely Gluten Free Crackers until crumbly. Transfer to a bowl and mix in the reserved shallot butter. Season with salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Set aside.
4. In a large cast-iron or oven-safe pan over medium-high heat, melt the stick of butter. Add the chopped shallots and garlic, sautéing until softened. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
5. Add mushrooms, thyme, and green beans to the pan. Sprinkle flour evenly over the mixture and stir to combine. Cook until the mixture begins to brown slightly.
6. Pour in the chicken stock and stir continuously until the flour dissolves and the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency. Add more stock if needed to reach the desired thickness.
7. Top the casserole with the cracker mixture. Bake for about 15 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown.
8. Before serving the green bean casserole, sprinkle it with fresh herbs and the reserved fried shallots.

Serves 8-10 as a side dish

 

What Makes This Green Bean Casserole So Special?

This isn’t your typical green bean casserole; it’s a refined take on a holiday favorite. Created by chef George Duran, this version brings out deeper flavors, a variety of textures, and a rich, creamy base. 

Using Absolutely Gluten Free Crackers for the topping gives it a crisp, golden finish that stands up to traditional fried onions, making it a delicious gluten-free option. Fresh herbs and browned butter add another layer of flavor, making it a dish you’ll be glad to share at any gathering.

A Gluten-Free Twist on a Classic Green Bean Casserole

Green bean casserole is a beloved holiday staple, usually made with canned soup and fried onions. This recipe keeps the comforting flavor but refreshes it with fresh green beans, mushrooms, and a homemade roux for more depth and nourishment. 

We swap out the traditional topping for crushed Absolutely Gluten Free crackers, delivering the crunchy finish you want without the gluten.

Why Use Absolutely Gluten Free Crackers?

A great topping is essential for any green bean casserole recipe, especially to balance creamy and crispy textures. Absolutely Gluten Free Crackers are the perfect choice because they are:

• Certified gluten-free
• Crisp and full of flavor
• Made from simple, wholesome ingredients
• Ideal for toppings or mixing in

Whether you’re gluten-free or just looking for a tastier alternative, Absolutely Gluten Free crackers keep every bite crisp and delicious.

Tips for the Best Green Bean Casserole

To get the most out of your green bean casserole, here are some tried-and-true tips:

• Don’t Overcook the Green Beans: Blanch or sauté until just tender to keep them bright and crisp.
• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mushrooms, garlic, and herbs add flavor that canned or dried can’t match. Thyme adds an earthy balance to the rich casserole.
• Make Ahead: This easy green bean casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated. Add the cracker topping just before baking.
• Customize Creaminess: Use more or less chicken stock to get the texture you like. For a vegetarian version, swap chicken stock for vegetable broth.

Gluten-Free Green Bean Casserole for the Holidays

Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a casual Sunday dinner, this naturally gluten-free casserole is packed with flavor. Serve it in a cast-iron skillet or white ceramic dish for an attractive presentation. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika adds a pop of color and a hint of heat.

Ingredient Spotlight: Haricots Verts

Haricots verts, or French green beans, are slimmer and more tender than regular green beans. They cook quickly and retain a vibrant color and delicate snap. If you can’t find haricots verts, regular green beans will work. Just trim and blanch them first. This helps maintain a satisfying bite in your green bean casserole.

Can I Make This Green Bean Casserole Vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace chicken stock with vegetable broth and use vegetarian-friendly butter or dairy substitutes. You’ll still enjoy a hearty, meat-free casserole.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Have leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a 350°F oven for about 10–15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also re-crisp the topping under the broiler for a minute or two—just keep an eye on it!

Freezing is also an option. Assemble the easy green bean casserole up to the point of baking (leave the cracker topping off), wrap tightly, and freeze. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight, add the topping, and bake as directed.

Pairing Suggestions

Wondering what to serve with your green bean casserole? Here are a few perfect pairings:

• Roast turkey or chicken for a traditional holiday feel
• Baked salmon for a lighter protein option
• Stuffed mushrooms or butternut squash for a vegetarian spread
• Mashed potatoes or wild rice for extra comfort

These combinations create a hearty and well-rounded meal, especially when your green bean casserole recipe is the centerpiece side dish.

Final Thoughts

This recipe combines tradition with fresh, flavorful ingredients and the delightful crunch of Absolutely Gluten Free Crackers. Simple enough for weeknight dinners, yet elegant enough for holiday gatherings, it proves that comfort food can be both classic and creative. 

Whether you’re gluten-free or simply love great taste, this easy green bean casserole is sure to be a favorite at your table.