Name: Green Beans with Mushrooms: A Simple Yet Flavorful Side Dish
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Fresh Green Beans (Substitute with frozen green beans if necessary; thaw before use.); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Use sea salt or table salt if kosher is unavailable.); 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (Adjust according to taste; can use white pepper for a milder flavor.); 8 ounces Cremini Mushrooms (Substitute with button mushrooms or shiitake based on availability.); 1 medium Red Onion (Shallots can also be used for a milder taste.); 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Swap for a dairy-free butter alternative for a vegan option.); 1 cup Low-Sodium Chicken Stock (Vegetable stock can be used for a vegetarian version; ensure it's low-sodium if preferred.)

Amid the hustle and bustle of preparing for a holiday feast, discovering that you can create a mouthwatering Healthy Thanksgiving side without taking over your kitchen can feel like winning the game! My Green Beans with Mushrooms recipe is not only gluten-free and low-carb but also brings a fresh twist to traditional side dishes. Picture crisp, vibrant green beans perfectly partnered with savory cremini mushrooms, all simmered in a rich, buttery sauce that invites everyone to the table. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing option for your festive gatherings, this dish checks all the boxes. Ready to add a pop of color and nutrition to your plate? Let’s dive into this deliciously easy recipe!

Why are green beans and mushrooms a must-try?

Colorful, Fresh Ingredients: This dish bursts with vibrant green beans and savory mushrooms, ensuring you get a delightful mix of freshness and flavor.

Quick Preparation: In just about 20 minutes, you can serve a tasty side that rivals your favorite Thanksgiving staples.

Health-Conscious Choice: With gluten-free and low-carb options, it’s a perfect choice for anyone watching their diet without sacrificing flavor.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a family dinner, this dish quickly becomes a favorite, appealing to both kids and adults alike!

Versatile Pairing: It complements a variety of main courses, from roast turkey to a simple weeknight stir-fry. You could also check out my recipes for Homemade Green Bean Casserole for a classic twist!

Green Beans with Mushrooms Ingredients

For the Dish

Fresh Green Beans – A primary vegetable that provides texture and a fresh flavor. Substitute with frozen green beans if necessary; thaw before use.
Kosher Salt – Enhances flavors and draws moisture from vegetables. Use sea salt or table salt if kosher is unavailable.
Black Pepper – Adds a hint of spiciness. Adjust according to taste; can use white pepper for a milder flavor.
Cremini Mushrooms – Brings earthiness and umami to the dish. Substitute with button mushrooms or shiitake based on availability.
Red Onion – Contributes sweetness and depth of flavor. Shallots can also be used for a milder taste.
Unsalted Butter – Provides richness to the sauce. Swap for a dairy-free butter alternative for a vegan option.
Low-Sodium Chicken Stock – Adds moisture and flavor while keeping sodium levels lower. Vegetable stock can be used for a vegetarian version; ensure it’s low-sodium if preferred.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Green Beans with Mushrooms

Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans
Start by rinsing and trimming the ends of your fresh green beans, ensuring they’re clean and ready for cooking. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the trimmed green beans along with a generous sprinkle of kosher salt and black pepper. Toss gently to coat the beans evenly, allowing their vibrant color to shine.

Step 2: Add the Aromatics
Next, slice up your cremini mushrooms and red onion. Add these to the skillet with the green beans, nestling them among the vegetables. With the heat still on, place small dollops of unsalted butter over the top, letting it melt into the mixture for richness. Pour in low-sodium chicken stock to create a deliciously flavorful broth that will help cook the green beans with mushrooms.

Step 3: Cover and Cook
Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook over medium-high heat for about 15–20 minutes. Stir occasionally, peeking under the lid to monitor the cooking progress. You want the green beans to be tender yet still crisp to the bite, soaking up all the wonderful buttery mushroom flavor that surrounds them.

Step 4: Adjust for Doneness
As the cooking time nears its end, lift the lid and give the mixture a thorough stir. If any liquid remains, allow it to evaporate and reduce for a few more minutes, increasing the heat if necessary to concentrate the flavors. The result should be a wonderfully thick sauce clinging to your green beans with mushrooms, creating an appealing glistening appearance.

Step 5: Final Seasoning
Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning, adding more kosher salt or black pepper according to your preference. Ensure the green beans are perfectly tender with a slight crunch. Once satisfied, remove the skillet from heat, letting the dish rest briefly before serving. This ensures all those flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Serve Warm
Transfer your freshly cooked Green Beans with Mushrooms to a serving dish, ensuring to drizzle any remaining sauce on top. Serve warm as a delightful, healthy side dish, perfect for holiday meals or any family gathering. The vibrant colors and lush flavors are sure to wow your guests and elevate any meal.

How to Store and Freeze Green Beans with Mushrooms

Fridge: Store leftover Green Beans with Mushrooms in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep them well-covered to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss.

Freezer: If you want to freeze this dish, let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then microwave gently until warm. Avoid overcooking to keep the beans crisp and flavorful.

Make-Ahead: This dish can be prepared a few hours in advance. Simply cover it and keep it at room temperature until serving. Reheat gently to retain the texture.

Green Beans with Mushrooms: Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make this delightful dish your own and let your creativity shine!

Asparagus: Swap green beans for asparagus for a fresh twist; the crunch will be equally satisfying.
Garlic Boost: Add crushed garlic in Step 2 for an aromatic, savory kick that elevates the dish.
Fresh Herbs: Toss in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant finish that complements the earthy mushrooms beautifully.
Vegan Option: Replace butter with a dairy-free alternative and use vegetable stock for a delicious plant-based version.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to bring a touch of heat, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice in their meals.
Crispy Topping: Top with toasted almonds or breadcrumbs for added crunch and texture, making the dish even more appealing.
Mushroom Variety: Experiment with different mushrooms, such as shiitake or oyster mushrooms, to introduce new flavors.
Alternative Stocks: Use beef or vegetable stock instead of chicken stock to modify the dish’s richness and depth; it’s all about personal preference!

Each variation helps bring out unique flavors in this fantastic dish. And while you’re at it, why not check out my Roasted Green Beans or Roasted Mushrooms Browned recipes for more delicious inspiration?

Make Ahead Options

These Green Beans with Mushrooms are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can wash and trim the fresh green beans, along with slicing the cremini mushrooms and red onion, up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store these prepped vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Alternatively, you can cook the complete dish a few hours beforehand, letting it cool before covering and refrigerating for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken stock if needed, to ensure the flavors revive beautifully. This way, you’ll enjoy a delightful, hassle-free side that fits your busy schedule without compromising on taste!

Expert Tips for Green Beans with Mushrooms

Perfect Crispness: Avoid overcooking the green beans to maintain their tender-crisp texture. This way, they stay vibrant and flavorful.
Frozen Options: If you’re using frozen green beans, remember they may take longer to cook. Adjust the timing accordingly to ensure they’re fully tender.
Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding minced garlic or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor in your Green Beans with Mushrooms.
Storage Wisdom: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave to preserve the beans’ texture.
Adjust Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust seasoning as you cook! Each ingredient plays a role, and the perfect balance will enhance the dish’s overall appeal.

What to Serve with Green Beans with Mushrooms

Imagine a beautifully arranged table, filled with warmth and comfort, where every bite is a celebration of flavor.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, creamy texture of mashed potatoes contrasts beautifully with the crispness of the green beans, creating a delightful balance that’s always a hit.
Roast Turkey: Perfect for holiday gatherings, the savory flavors of turkey pair seamlessly with the earthy mushrooms, making each forkful a delicious blend of taste.
Quinoa Salad: A light, fluffy quinoa salad adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture, enhancing the meal while keeping it nutritious and satisfying.
Garlic Bread: The warm, crusty garlic bread serves as an indulgent side, perfect for soaking up the buttery sauce from the green beans with mushrooms.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet glazed carrots provide a pop of color and a delightful contrast to the savory profile of the dish, creating a vibrant and appealing plate.
White Wine: A crisp, chilled white wine complements the dish nicely, enhancing the earthy flavors of the mushrooms and the freshness of the green beans.
Apple Pie: Finish with a slice of warm apple pie for dessert—its sweet, spiced flavor will round out the meal perfectly, making it memorable.

Green Beans with Mushrooms Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right green beans?
Absolutely! Look for bright, vibrant green beans that feel firm and crisp when you snap them. Avoid beans with dark spots or wilting leaves, as they can signal old produce. If you’re using frozen green beans, ensure they’re evenly frozen without any ice crystals, which indicates they’ve been thawed and refrozen.

What’s the best way to store leftover green beans with mushrooms?
After enjoying your delightful green beans with mushrooms, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to let them cool to room temperature before sealing the container to prevent moisture buildup inside.

Can I freeze green beans with mushrooms?
Absolutely! To freeze your dish, let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring as much air as possible is removed. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently in the microwave.

What should I do if my green beans are too soft?
If your green beans end up too soft, don’t worry! For future cooking, be sure to keep an eye on them during the last few minutes—cooking time is typically around 15-20 minutes, but this can vary based on your stovetop heat. To salvage overcooked beans, consider mashing them or turning them into a tasty green bean spread with added herbs and spices.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very! This recipe is naturally gluten-free and low-carb, making it suitable for various diets. If you’re preparing it for guests with dietary restrictions, swap out the unsalted butter for a dairy-free alternative for a vegan option. Additionally, check that your chicken stock is low-sodium if you’re concerned about sodium intake.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?
You can definitely prep your green beans with mushrooms ahead of time! Cook them a few hours in advance, then cover and let them sit at room temperature until serving. For best results, gently reheat them in the microwave just before serving to keep them fresh without overcooking.