Bite-sized Green Bean Cups

This creamy, bite-sized version of the classic green bean casserole transforms a traditional Thanksgiving side into perfect party-friendly appetizers that disappear in minutes. Each crispy filo cup delivers the familiar comfort of green bean casserole in an elegant, portable form.

These little cups have become my go-to holiday appetizer. I first made them when hosting a crowded Thanksgiving, and they solved my problem of guests balancing overloaded plates while trying to socialize.

Ingredients

• Fresh mushrooms provide an earthy depth that canned soup can never match select firm mushrooms with no soft spots
• Heavy cream creates the silky base for our filling use full fat for the best texture and flavor
• Frozen green beans offer convenience without sacrificing taste choose whole beans and chop them yourself for better texture control
• Parmesan cheese adds subtle umami notes that elevate the entire dish freshly grated works best
• Mini filo shells provide the perfect crisp vessel look for them in your freezer section near desserts
• French fried onions deliver that classic casserole topping in each bite the more the better

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the shells

Arrange the thawed filo shells on a baking sheet. These delicate pastry cups are ready to use from the package but need a flat surface for filling. Handle them gently as they can crack if pressed too hard.

Create the mushroom base

Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat until it begins to foam slightly. Add your finely chopped mushrooms and sauté them patiently until they release their moisture and begin to brown at the edges about 5 minutes. This caramelization develops deep flavor that forms the foundation of your filling.

Build the creamy sauce

Sprinkle flour evenly over the cooked mushrooms and continue cooking for about 2 minutes while stirring constantly. This cooks out the raw flour taste and creates the roux that will thicken your sauce. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously to prevent lumps forming. The mixture should coat the back of a spoon when properly thickened.

Incorporate the green beans

Add your chopped green beans and Parmesan cheese to the creamy mushroom mixture. Stir gently until the beans are evenly distributed and the cheese melts completely into the sauce. The consistency should be thick enough to mound slightly in a spoon but still be creamy.

Season thoughtfully

Add onion powder salt and pepper to the mixture. Taste and adjust seasonings now this is your last chance to perfect the flavor before filling the cups. The filling should taste slightly more seasoned than you think necessary as the filo shells will temper the flavor.

Fill and top

Using a small spoon carefully fill each filo shell with the green bean mixture allowing it to mound slightly. Sprinkle each filled cup with French fried onions pressing them gently into the filling so they stay put during baking.

Bake to perfection

Place the filled cups in your preheated oven and bake just until the onions turn golden brown and the edges of the shells become deeply crisp about 4 to 6 minutes. Watch closely as they can burn quickly.

Save

The French fried onions are absolutely non-negotiable in my kitchen. The first time I made these without them my brother actually walked straight to the pantry found a container and sprinkled them on himself. Now I always double the amount called for because they add that nostalgic flavor that makes this dish instantly recognizable.

Make Ahead Options

These cups can be partially prepared in advance to save time during busy gatherings. Make the filling up to two days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve reheat the filling gently on the stovetop adding a splash of cream if needed to restore the creamy consistency. Fill the shells and bake just before serving for the crispest result.

Variations To Try

While the classic recipe is perfection there are several delicious variations worth exploring. Try adding crumbled bacon or diced ham for a meaty twist. Substitute Gruyère or white cheddar for the Parmesan for a different flavor profile. For a touch of brightness add a few drops of lemon juice or zest to the filling. Vegetarians can enjoy this as written while meat-lovers might appreciate the addition of shredded rotisserie chicken.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cups on a large platter garnished with fresh thyme leaves for an elegant presentation. They're best enjoyed warm within about 20 minutes of baking. Pair them with other finger foods that complement but don't compete with their savory flavor profile think simple crudités or mild cheese options. These cups also work beautifully as a starter course for a seated dinner placed on small plates with a simple green garnish.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make Green Bean Casserole Cups ahead of time?

You can prepare the filling up to 2 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. However, for best results, fill the filo shells just before baking to maintain their crispness. If needed, you can assemble them a few hours before serving and keep refrigerated, then bake right before guests arrive.

→ What can I substitute for the mini filo shells?

If you can't find mini filo shells, you can use mini tart shells, puff pastry cups, or even wonton wrappers pressed into mini muffin tins and pre-baked until crisp. Each alternative will provide a slightly different texture but will work well as a vessel for the creamy filling.

→ How do I keep the filo cups from getting soggy?

To prevent soggy filo cups, make sure your filling isn't too watery. If needed, cook the sauce a bit longer to thicken it properly. Also, serve the cups shortly after baking, as they will naturally soften over time once filled with the creamy mixture.

→ Can I make these Green Bean Casserole Cups vegetarian or vegan?

The recipe is already vegetarian. For a vegan version, substitute the butter with plant-based butter, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and replace the Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative. Just make sure to check that your filo shells and French fried onions are also vegan-friendly.

→ What other toppings can I use besides French fried onions?

If you want to try something different, you could top these cups with toasted breadcrumbs, crushed potato chips, crispy bacon bits, toasted sliced almonds, or even a small sprinkle of additional cheese. Any topping that adds a crunchy texture will work well as a contrast to the creamy filling.

→ Can I freeze Green Bean Casserole Cups?

While you can freeze the filling, assembled cups don't freeze well as the filo shells will become soggy when thawed. If you need to work ahead, freeze just the filling, then thaw, reheat, and fill fresh shells when ready to serve.