Fancy Green Bean Casserole

I was searching for a variation on the traditional Green Bean Casserole...this one is a winner!

1 lb. fresh green beans, washed and trimmed

4 Tbsp. butter, divided

4 oz. can of sliced mushrooms

2 cloves garlic, minced

kosher salt and freshly-ground black pepper, to taste

2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk

1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup crispy onion strips

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Spray a 1-1/2 quart baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Place green beans in a gallon-size resealable plastic bag (or buy the beans already in the microwaveable bag in the produce section). Poke a few holes in the bag to allow steam to escape.  Heat in the microwave on full power for 3-5 minutes until beans are tender, but still a bit crisp. Pour into prepared pan.
3. Heat two tablespoons of the butter in a small frying pan. Add mushrooms, garlic, salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid from the mushrooms has evaporated. Pour over green beans. Toss.
4. Heat remaining two tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour. Cook 1-2 minutes until flour starts to turn golden.
5. Slowly add milk. Stirring constantly, cook until mixture starts to bubble and thicken. Add salt, pepper, Dijon mustard and Parmesan cheese. Pour over mushrooms and green beans.
6. Bake 15-20 minutes until bubbly. Sprinkle crispy onions on top. Bake another 5 minutes.
7. Let green bean casserole rest 5-10 minutes before serving.

From the kitchen of: Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide to Cooking for Kids