If you’re craving a comforting, classic American side dish that never fails to bring people together, you’re going to adore this Green Bean Casserole Recipe. It’s creamy, crunchy, and packed with familiar flavors that make every bite feel like a warm hug. Whether you’re fixing it for a special holiday meal or just because, this dish hits all the right notes with its tender green beans, savory mushroom sauce, and that irresistible golden fried onion topping. It’s simple to prepare yet feels undeniably festive, making it a beloved staple on tables across the country.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These straightforward ingredients combine pantry-friendly staples and fresh produce to create a dish that’s anything but ordinary. Each element plays a key role in delivering the perfect balance of creaminess, savoriness, and crunchy texture.
- 1 pound fresh green beans (trimmed and cut in half) or 2 (14.5 oz) cans green beans (drained): Fresh beans are crisp and vibrant, but canned beans offer convenience without sacrificing flavor.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup: The creamy base that binds everything together with rich umami goodness.
- 1/2 cup milk: Adds smoothness and lightens the casserole’s texture so it’s never too dense.
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce: A splash of depth and subtle saltiness that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Just enough to add a gentle kick and balance the creaminess.
- 1 1/3 cups French fried onions: The star crunch topping that gives this recipe its signature crispy finish.
- Salt to taste: Essential for seasoning and rounding out the flavors.
How to Make Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans
If you’re using fresh green beans, start by blanching them in boiling water for about 5 minutes until they’re tender-crisp but still bright green. This quick cooking preserves that lovely snap and color. Drain well so they don’t water down your casserole. Canned green beans can skip this step, making it a real time saver.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
Grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. This simple combination creates the velvety, savory sauce that soaks into the green beans, transforming the dish into a luscious, comforting masterpiece.
Step 3: Combine and Add Crunch
Stir the drained green beans into the mushroom sauce, then fold in about two-thirds of the French fried onions. This gives you that wonderful contrast of textures baked right into every bite. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×9-inch or similarly sized baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in a preheated 350°F oven and bake, uncovered, for 25 minutes. This baking melds the flavors and warms everything through beautifully. Once the timer goes off, stir the casserole gently to mix and redistribute, then sprinkle the remaining fried onions evenly over the top. Pop it back in the oven for another 5 to 10 minutes until those onions turn golden brown and crispy, giving the casserole its iconic crunchy topping.
How to Serve Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
While the fried onions are a classic topping, you can elevate your presentation with some fresh herbs such as chopped parsley or thyme. A light drizzle of extra soy sauce or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper right before serving adds extra flavor and appeal. These touches make the dish look and taste even more inviting at the table.
Side Dishes
This Green Bean Casserole Recipe pairs perfectly with roasted or mashed potatoes, glazed carrots, and succulent meats like roasted turkey or baked ham. The creamy texture and savory flavor make it an ideal companion to hearty mains, balancing out your holiday meal or family dinner with ease and style.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the casserole in individual ramekins for personal portions. You can also transform it into a layered bake by alternating green bean mixture and fried onions, finishing with a thick crunchy top. A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese before the final bake is another tasty variation that adds a golden cheesy crust.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover green bean casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing. To maintain the crispiness of the fried onions, store the topping separately and add it fresh when reheating.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole for up to 2 months by assembling it without the fried onions and wrapping it tightly with foil and plastic wrap. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, add fresh fried onions on top, and bake until bubbly and golden.
Reheating
Reheat green bean casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15 to 20 minutes until warmed through. To bring back some of the crispy topping texture, add a handful of fresh French fried onions before the last 5 minutes of reheating. Avoid microwaving to keep the casserole’s best texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh green beans add a lovely crisp texture and vibrant color to this Green Bean Casserole Recipe. Just remember to blanch them first so they cook evenly in the casserole.
Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the cream of mushroom soup and milk with dairy-free alternatives like coconut milk or cashew cream soup. Just ensure the French fried onions are also free from dairy ingredients.
How do I make the crispy topping without French fried onions?
If you can’t find French fried onions, crushed fried shallots or crispy breadcrumbs toasted with a little butter make great crunchy alternatives.
Can I add extra vegetables to the casserole?
Sure thing! Sliced mushrooms, diced onions, or even roasted bell peppers can complement the green beans beautifully and add extra flavor and nutrition.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers without losing texture?
Reheat your leftover casserole in the oven rather than the microwave, and add fresh fried onions on top to bring back that signature crunch.
Final Thoughts
This Green Bean Casserole Recipe holds a special place in so many hearts and plates, blending creamy comfort with just the right amount of crunch. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again, whether it’s a festive gathering or a cozy weeknight. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the warm familiarity of a true classic that brightens up any meal.
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Green Bean Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic American side dish perfect for holidays, this Green Bean Casserole combines tender green beans with a creamy mushroom sauce and crispy fried onions, baked to golden perfection. Easy to prepare and full of comforting flavors, it’s a staple at Thanksgiving dinners and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and cut in half or 2 (14.5 oz) cans green beans, drained
Condiments & Dairy
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk (or half-and-half for richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
Seasonings
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Toppings
- 1 1/3 cups French fried onions, divided
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Prepare Green Beans: If using fresh green beans, blanch them by boiling in water for 5 minutes, then drain well. If using canned green beans, simply drain.
- Mix Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, black pepper, and a pinch of salt to create a creamy sauce.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir the blanched or canned green beans into the sauce along with 2/3 cup of the French fried onions, mixing gently to coat.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×9-inch or similar baking dish, smoothing the top evenly.
- Bake Initial: Bake uncovered for 25 minutes to heat through and meld flavors.
- Add Topping: Remove casserole from the oven, gently stir to mix, then sprinkle the remaining French fried onions evenly on top.
- Finish Baking: Return casserole to oven and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes, or until the onions are golden and crispy.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve warm as a comforting side dish.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, substitute half-and-half for milk.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or a dash of garlic powder to elevate the dish.
- This casserole can be assembled in advance and baked just before serving for convenience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
