What is Green Bean Casserole? A Beloved American Classic

For those unfamiliar with this iconic dish, the traditional green bean casserole holds a special place in American culinary history. It’s a baked comfort food staple, typically featuring green beans, a creamy sauce (often made with canned cream of mushroom soup), and crispy fried onions. These ingredients are mixed, layered, and baked to golden perfection in a casserole dish.

Originating in 1955 by Dorcas Reilly at the Campbell Soup Company, it was created as a simple recipe using ingredients commonly found in most pantries. Its ease of preparation and comforting flavor quickly made it a hit, especially during holiday feasts. While immensely popular as a Thanksgiving dinner side dish, green bean casserole is also a welcome addition to everyday meals, bringing warmth and flavor to any dinner table.

Our Delicious Gluten-Free and Vegan Twist on a Classic

Today, we’re taking this cherished American classic and giving it a modern, inclusive twist. Our recipe for green bean casserole is not only gluten-free but also entirely dairy-free and vegan, making it accessible for a wider range of dietary needs without sacrificing any of the traditional appeal. Instead of relying on canned cream of mushroom soup, which often contains gluten and dairy, we’re building a rich, luscious, and homemade creamy base from scratch using a gluten-free and dairy-free roux.

This thoughtful approach ensures that the casserole maintains its signature comfort and texture. We also incorporate dairy-free cheese for that essential cheesy goodness and use certified gluten-free fried onions for the ultimate crispy topping. The result is a casserole that’s just as decadent and satisfying as the original, perhaps even more so, promising a delightful experience for everyone at your table.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try:

• Simple, Accessible Ingredients: You won’t need to hunt down exotic items for this recipe. All the ingredients for this vegan gluten-free green bean casserole are readily available at your local grocery store, ensuring a stress-free shopping experience.
• Effortlessly Easy to Make: Despite its impressive flavor, preparing this green bean bake is surprisingly uncomplicated. You can have it assembled and ready for the oven in under an hour, making it perfect for busy holiday preparations or weeknight dinners.
• Truly Inclusive: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free & Vegan: This recipe is a game-changer! It’s 100% gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan. This means individuals with Celiac disease, gluten sensitivities, lactose intolerance, or those following a plant-based diet can all enjoy this comforting dish without a second thought. No one has to miss out on this holiday staple!
• Unforgettable Flavor and Texture: We’ve meticulously crafted this recipe to ensure it delivers on taste and texture. The creamy sauce is perfectly seasoned, the green beans are tender-crisp, and the fried onions add that irresistible crunch, making every bite a delightful experience.

Gather Your Ingredients for This Comforting Casserole

Preparing this gluten-free green bean casserole starts with a selection of simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s a visual overview to help you get started, and a deeper dive into each component’s role and potential substitutions.

(For precise measurements and a printable version, please scroll down to the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.)

Recipe Notes & Expert Substitutions for Your Perfect Casserole:

Crafting the perfect green bean casserole involves understanding the role of each ingredient and knowing how to adapt it to your preferences or dietary needs. Here are detailed notes and substitution ideas to help you along:

• Gluten-Free Flour: The foundation of our creamy roux. I highly recommend using a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that predominantly features lighter flours and starches, such as rice flour, tapioca starch, corn starch, or potato starch. These blends create a smooth, lump-free sauce. Avoid blends containing heavier flours like garbanzo bean flour, as they can result in a grainy texture and a distinct flavor that might not be ideal for this dish.
• Dairy-Free Butter: To keep this recipe truly vegan and dairy-free, a good quality dairy-free butter (often labeled as vegan butter) is essential for the roux. If dairy isn’t an issue for you, feel free to use regular unsalted butter instead.
• Unsweetened Almond Milk: I prefer using an unsweetened version of my homemade almond milk for a clean, neutral flavor. However, feel free to substitute with any other non-dairy milk you prefer, such as cashew milk, rice milk, or oat milk. Just ensure it’s unsweetened to avoid altering the savory profile of the casserole. For those who consume dairy, regular milk or even heavy cream can be used for an extra rich sauce.
• Gluten-Free Tamari Sauce: This ingredient adds a wonderful depth of umami flavor to the sauce. To keep the recipe gluten-free, gluten-free tamari sauce is my go-to. Another excellent gluten-free alternative is coconut aminos. If you don’t have Celiac disease or gluten intolerance, regular soy sauce can be used in its place.
• Ground Nutmeg: A small pinch of ground nutmeg adds a subtle warmth and aromatic complexity to the creamy sauce. It’s a classic secret ingredient in many béchamel-based sauces. If nutmeg isn’t to your liking, you can simply omit it.
• Green Beans: The star of the show! While fresh green beans offer the best texture and vibrant color, you can absolutely use frozen green beans or canned green beans if that’s what you have on hand. If using fresh, make sure to snap off the ends and cut them into uniform 1.5 to 2-inch pieces for even cooking. For frozen, no need to thaw before cooking. If using canned, drain them well.
• Crispy Fried Onions: The signature crunchy topping! You can save time by using store-bought fried onions, but be sure to check the label to confirm they are gluten-free, as many brands are not. For an even more wholesome and delicious option, I highly recommend making your own homemade gluten-free fried onions – they elevate the casserole to another level!
• Shredded Dairy-Free Cheese: To maintain the dairy-free nature of this recipe, I use a good quality shredded dairy-free cheese. Many brands offer excellent vegan cheddar or mozzarella-style shreds that melt beautifully. If dairy is part of your diet, regular mozzarella or cheddar cheese can be used for a classic flavor.

How to Make This Creamy Gluten-Free Green Bean Casserole (Step-by-Step Guide):

Creating this delicious casserole is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps for a perfect outcome:

1. Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 370°F (190°C). This ensures your casserole starts baking immediately once assembled, leading to even cooking and a perfectly browned topping.

2. Prepare the Roux Base

In a medium saucepan or a large pot, melt the dairy-free butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the gluten-free all-purpose flour. Cook this mixture for approximately 2 minutes, stirring constantly with a whisk or spatula. This step creates a roux, which is crucial for thickening your creamy sauce and ensuring a smooth consistency, free of raw flour taste.

3. Whisk in Milk, Tamari, and Seasonings

Gradually pour in the unsweetened almond milk and gluten-free tamari sauce into the roux, continuously stirring with a spatula or whisk. This helps to prevent lumps and creates a smooth, velvety sauce. Add salt, ground black pepper, and ground nutmeg. Continue to stir until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. If the sauce becomes too thick, simply add a splash more almond milk and stir well until it reaches the perfect creamy texture.

4. Mix the Main Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared green beans, 2/3 cup of the shredded dairy-free cheese, and the majority of the gluten-free fried onions. Make sure to reserve about 3 tablespoons of the fried onions for the final topping, which will add a delightful crunch at the end of the baking process.

5. Fold in the Creamy Sauce

Pour the freshly made creamy sauce from the saucepan over the green bean mixture in the bowl. Using a sturdy spatula, gently fold and stir until all the green beans, cheese, and onions are thoroughly coated with the rich sauce. Ensure everything is evenly distributed for uniform flavor in every bite.

6. Transfer to Baking Dish and Initial Bake

Carefully transfer the green bean mixture into an approximately 12” x 12” square casserole dish. A rectangular baking dish of similar capacity will also work perfectly. Spread the mixture evenly across the dish. Place it in your preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. This initial bake allows the green beans to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully.

7. Add Final Topping and Bake Again

After the initial 25 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven. Sprinkle the remaining shredded dairy-free cheese and the reserved fried onions evenly over the top. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and melted, and the fried onions are golden brown and perfectly crispy. This final bake ensures a beautiful golden crust and a delightful textural contrast.

8. Serve Hot and Savor Every Bite!

Once baked to perfection, remove the creamy green bean casserole from the oven. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving to ensure the sauce sets slightly. Serve it hot as a fantastic side dish for any meal, especially during the holidays. Prepare for rave reviews!

Dish by Dish Pro Tips & Clever Tricks:

Elevate your green bean casserole experience with these expert tips and clever variations:

• Embrace Cream of Mushroom Soup (with a GF/DF twist!): If you’re pressed for time or simply prefer the convenience, you can certainly use a cream of mushroom soup base. Simply swap out the gluten-free flour, almond milk, dairy-free butter, and tamari sauce for about 1 cup of your favorite store-bought gluten-free and dairy-free cream of mushroom soup. Just ensure it meets your dietary needs! Alternatively, you can make your own homemade version.
• Homemade Fried Onions for the Win: While store-bought crispy fried onions are convenient, nothing beats the fresh taste and crunch of homemade. For an unparalleled topping that will truly impress, check out my recipe for homemade gluten-free crispy onions. They’re surprisingly easy to make and add an incredible depth of flavor.
• Prepare Ahead for Stress-Free Holidays: This casserole is a fantastic make-ahead dish, perfect for busy holiday seasons like Thanksgiving day. You can assemble the entire casserole (up to the point of the final topping) 1 or 2 days in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. On the day of serving, simply warm it up in the oven until heated through, then add the final layer of crispy onions and cheese and bake until golden and bubbly.
• Creative Topping Alternatives: If you’re looking for a different kind of crunch or don’t have fried onions, crushed potato chips make a surprisingly delicious and easy topping! Gluten-free breadcrumbs mixed with a little dairy-free butter and herbs also work wonderfully for a different texture.
• Achieving Tender-Crisp Green Beans: To prevent soggy green beans, blanch fresh beans for just 3-5 minutes in boiling salted water, then immediately plunge them into an ice bath to stop cooking. This keeps them vibrant and slightly crisp through the baking process. If using frozen, add them directly to the sauce; they’ll cook as the casserole bakes.

Common Questions About Your Gluten-Free Green Bean Casserole:

More Irresistible Holiday Side Dishes:

Looking to complete your holiday spread? Here are some other fantastic gluten-free and dairy-free side dishes that pair wonderfully with our green bean casserole:

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes (Gluten-Free, Vegan)
• Sweet Potato Casserole (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Scalloped Potatoes (Gluten-Free, Vegan)
• Easy Cornbread Stuffing (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Easy Green Beans (Gluten-Free, Vegan)

Explore More Gluten-Free Thanksgiving Recipes:

Don’t stop at side dishes! Discover a world of delicious gluten-free options for your entire Thanksgiving menu, from appetizers to show-stopping desserts.

P.S. If you try this recipe, I’d love for you to leave a star rating below, and/or a review in the comment section further down the page. I always appreciate your feedback. Be sure to check out my entire Recipe Index for all the recipes on the blog. You can also follow me on Pinterest, Facebook or Instagram! Sign up for my Email List to get fresh recipes in your inbox each week!