french’s string bean casserole recipe

The Best french’s string bean casserole recipe

French-Style String Bean Casserole with Crispy Top

4.5 from 759 votes

A comforting one-pan dish featuring tender string beans, a rich tomato-based sauce, and a golden, crispy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for weeknight meals.

🖨️ Print Recipe📌 Pin Recipe❤️ Add to Collection

Prep Time15 mins

Cook Time40 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time55 mins

Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Vegetable Base

• 2 lbs (900g) green string beans, trimmed
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce

• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Topping

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tbsp olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened (about 5 minutes).
2. 2
   Add trimmed string beans to the skillet, cooking for 5 minutes until slightly tender. Pour in crushed tomatoes, milk, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
3. 3
   Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, until the beans are fork-tender and the sauce thickens slightly.
4. 4
   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, panko, Parmesan, beaten egg, and olive oil until combined. Spread the bean mixture evenly in the skillet.
5. 5
   Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top, pressing lightly to adhere. Bake for 15–20 minutes, until the topping is golden and crispy.

🔧Equipment

• Large oven-safe skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22💛Saturated Fat: 10❤️Cholesterol: 45🧂Sodium: 850🌾Total Carbs: 48🥦Dietary Fiber: 7🍬Sugars: 8🥩Protein: 14

📝Notes

Tips: For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of white wine while simmering the sauce. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to ensure the topping holds its shape.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About French-Style String Bean Casserole with Crispy Top

1. What is the best way to prepare the French string bean casserole for a crowd?

Use slightly larger cuttings of string beans and onions, and double the quantity of the broth or stock. Pre-cook the potatoes and string beans separately to ensure even cooking, then combine them in the oven for a cohesive texture. You can also add extra herbs like thyme or bay leaves to enhance the flavor for a larger group.

2. Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Yes, this dish can be prepared in advance. The casserole can be assembled and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Just ensure it’s covered to keep it fresh. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until hot through, about 20–30 minutes.

3. What substitutions can I make for the fresh herbs in this recipe?

If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried herbs work well—use about half the amount recommended (e.g., 1 teaspoon dried thyme instead of 1 tablespoon fresh). For a more robust flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to replace the basil or parsley.

4. Is this dish suitable for a vegetarian or vegan version?

Yes, you can easily adapt it by replacing the chicken broth with a vegetable broth and using extra firm tofu or chickpeas to mimic the texture of the chicken. Skip the butter and use olive oil instead, and ensure all other ingredients are plant-based.