If you are searching for a comforting, delicious side that will become an instant favorite at your dinner table, look no further than this Easy Cream Cheese Green Bean Casserole Recipe. This casserole combines tender green beans with a luxuriously creamy, cheesy sauce that’s enhanced by the dreamy smoothness of cream cheese and a touch of garlic and onion powder. Topped off with crispy fried onions for the ideal crunch, this dish is the perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it a standout for any meal, from casual family dinners to festive holiday gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Easy Cream Cheese Green Bean Casserole Recipe lies in how simple and straightforward the ingredients are, yet how deeply each one contributes to creating a comforting casserole full of flavor and texture. Every component plays its part—from the fresh or canned green beans for that vibrant vegetable base to the cream cheese and mushroom soup which come together for an irresistibly creamy sauce. Don’t forget the crispy fried onions, the star ingredient that adds that crave-worthy crunch.
- 4 cups green beans: Use canned (drained), fresh (blanched), or frozen (thawed and dried) green beans for a tender yet firm vegetable bed.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup: Cream of mushroom soup adds a savory, earthy creaminess essential for the casserole’s rich sauce.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: This creates the velvety texture and tang that elevates the casserole beyond ordinary.
- 1/2 cup milk: Milk loosens the mixture so it’s perfectly saucy but not runny.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: A subtle boost of garlic flavor deepens the overall savory profile.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: Enhances the savory depth without overpowering the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning that brings all the flavors together.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Adds a rich, cheesy dimension that melts beautifully into the sauce.
- 1 cup fried onion rings: Store-bought or homemade, these offer a crunchy, golden topping that is pure comfort food joy.
How to Make Easy Cream Cheese Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish
Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to ensure your casserole slides out easily after baking and nothing sticks to the sides. This small prep step makes clean-up a breeze and keeps your casserole looking beautiful.
Step 2: Create the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the softened cream cheese, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir gently but continuously until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. This warm sauce is the heart of the casserole, delivering that irresistible richness that ties everything together.
Step 3: Add the Green Beans
Now, stir in the prepared green beans, mixing until each bean is thoroughly coated in that luscious cream cheese sauce. This step ensures every bite is packed with creamy, flavorful goodness.
Step 4: Incorporate the Cheddar Cheese (If Using)
If you’re opting for the extra cheesy twist, sprinkle in the shredded cheddar and stir gently until it melts seamlessly into the sauce. The melted cheddar adds a wonderful sharpness and depth that pairs perfectly with the creamy base and fresh green beans.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish and Top with Fried Onions
Spread the green bean mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish. Then generously sprinkle the fried onion rings on top. These crispy onions will bake into a golden crust that adds both texture and flavor contrast.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling around the edges and the fried onions are beautifully golden brown. This baking step not only heats everything through but also crisps the topping to perfection.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Allow the casserole to cool just slightly before serving. This cozy dish tastes best warm, and the slight cooling helps the sauce thicken a little for cleaner plating and bite.
How to Serve Easy Cream Cheese Green Bean Casserole Recipe

Garnishes
For a delightful finishing touch, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or chives over the top just before serving. The bright green flecks add a pop of color and fresh flavor that compliments the creamy casserole beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey, baked chicken, or even a juicy roast beef. For a lighter meal, add a crisp green salad or fresh dinner rolls to balance the creamy and crunchy textures with something bright and fresh.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Serve the Easy Cream Cheese Green Bean Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins topped with a few extra fried onions for portions that look as elegant as they taste. You can also add a scattering of toasted nuts like almonds or pecans to the topping for an unexpected twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though it’s rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld wonderfully overnight, making it taste even more cohesive the next day.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well. To freeze, cool it completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the creamy texture intact.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through to keep the crispy topping intact. Alternatively, cover with foil and microwave on medium, adding a minute at a time until hot, though the topping won’t stay crisp this way.
FAQs
Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned or frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh green beans add a lovely crispness. Just blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes, then cool in ice water before using. This ensures they’re tender but still vibrant in color.
Is cream cheese necessary in this casserole?
Cream cheese is essential for the creamy, luscious texture that makes this casserole stand out. It adds a subtle tang and richness that transforms this dish from classic to indulgent.
Can I make this casserole vegan or dairy-free?
To make it vegan, substitute cream cheese and cheddar with plant-based alternatives and use a dairy-free cream soup. Keep in mind the texture might vary slightly, but the casserole will still be delicious.
What can I substitute for fried onion rings?
If you prefer, you can top with homemade crispy breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or toasted nuts for a different kind of crunch. Each option adds unique flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make this casserole from start to finish?
From prep to baked golden perfection, you’re looking at about 40 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute meal planning or holiday feasts.
Final Thoughts
If you are ready to add a new family favorite to your recipe box, the Easy Cream Cheese Green Bean Casserole Recipe is a must-try. Its creamy, flavorful sauce combined with crisp fried onions creates a comforting side dish everyone will reach for again and again. Whether for a holiday table or a cozy weeknight dinner, this casserole truly brings warmth and joy to any meal.
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Easy Cream Cheese Green Bean Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Easy Cream Cheese Green Bean Casserole is a creamy, comforting side dish perfect for family dinners and holiday gatherings. Made with tender green beans coated in a rich cream cheese and mushroom soup sauce, topped with crispy fried onions and melted cheddar cheese, this casserole combines classic flavors with a smooth texture, baked to golden perfection in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Green Beans
- 4 cups green beans (canned, drained; fresh, blanched; or frozen, thawed and dried)
Sauce & Seasoning
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 cup fried onion rings (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the cream cheese mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the softened cream cheese, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Heat over medium heat, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Combine the green beans: Add the green beans into the saucepan and stir well, ensuring they are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
- Add cheese (optional): Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely into the sauce, adding extra richness and flavor.
- Transfer to baking dish: Spread the green bean mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Top with fried onions: Generously sprinkle the fried onion rings over the top of the casserole to create a crispy topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to set.
Notes
- You can use fresh, frozen, or canned green beans depending on your preference; just make sure they are well drained and prepared accordingly.
- For a dairy-free variation, substitute cream cheese and milk with plant-based alternatives.
- If you prefer a less creamy casserole, reduce the amount of cream cheese or substitute with more soup.
- Homemade fried onions add extra flavor and crunch but store-bought fried onions are a convenient shortcut.
- Feel free to add cooked bacon or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American