Green bean casserole has been a beloved staple on holiday tables for generations. But did you know this iconic dish was first introduced by a home economist in the 1950s as a way to make use of common pantry ingredients? This green bean casserole recipe takes the traditional dish and elevates it with fresh ingredients and rich flavors, making it a must-try for any family gathering or weeknight dinner. Let’s explore how to create this classic comfort food with ease and perfection!
Recipe Card
Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Description: A creamy, savory, and crunchy green bean casserole that’s perfect for holidays or as a comforting side dish. This recipe combines tender green beans, a velvety mushroom sauce, and crispy fried onions for a dish that everyone will love.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 210 per serving
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 ¾ cups crispy fried onions (divided)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Blanch the green beans in boiling water for 3-4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, black pepper, and shredded cheese (if using). Stir until smooth.
- Fold in the green beans and ¾ cup of fried onions. Mix until evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove the casserole from the oven, sprinkle the remaining fried onions on top, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Notes:
For a richer flavor, use heavy cream instead of milk. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute with almond or oat milk.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 13g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this green bean casserole recipe is perfect for beginners.
- Budget-Friendly: All the ingredients are affordable and easy to find.
- Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a dish that everyone, from kids to adults, will love.
- Customizable: You can tweak the flavors and ingredients to suit your preferences.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a casual dinner, this dish fits right in.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
- Green Beans: Fresh green beans provide the best texture and flavor, but frozen or canned green beans can be used in a pinch.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: This classic ingredient creates the creamy base. For a homemade option, use a quick mushroom roux.
- Milk: Adds creaminess to the sauce. Non-dairy milk like almond or soy works well for a dairy-free version.
- Soy Sauce: Enhances the umami flavor. You can substitute with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
- Crispy Fried Onions: The star of the topping. You can use store-bought or make your own for added freshness.
How to Make Green Bean Casserole (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans
Start by blanching your green beans. Boil a pot of water, add the trimmed beans, and cook for 3-4 minutes until bright green. Drain and immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This keeps them crisp and vibrant.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, black pepper, and shredded cheese (if using). Stir until smooth and creamy. The soy sauce adds a subtle depth of flavor to the dish.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Fold the blanched green beans and ¾ cup of crispy fried onions into the sauce. Mix until the beans are fully coated.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Spread the mixture evenly in a greased baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
Step 5: Add the Topping
Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining fried onions on top. Return it to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to achieve a golden, crispy topping.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair it with your favorite main dishes for a complete meal.
Expert Tips for Success
- Blanch the Green Beans: Don’t skip this step! It ensures your green beans stay tender yet crisp.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh green beans and homemade mushroom sauce for the best flavor.
- Don’t Overbake: Overcooking can make the casserole watery. Stick to the recommended baking times.
- Customize the Topping: For extra crunch, mix panko breadcrumbs with the fried onions.
- Prepare Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and bake just before serving.
Variations and Customizations
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and fried onions.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the milk and cheese with non-dairy alternatives.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the sauce.
- Vegetarian: Ensure the cream of mushroom soup is vegetarian-friendly.
- Cheesy: Double the shredded cheese for an extra creamy casserole.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent the topping from burning.
- Freezing: Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This green bean casserole pairs beautifully with:
- Roasted turkey or chicken
- Mashed potatoes with gravy
- Cranberry sauce
- Warm dinner rolls
- A fresh garden salad
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to make green bean casserole?
To make green bean casserole, blanch fresh green beans and mix them with a creamy sauce made from cream of mushroom soup, milk, and seasonings. Fold in crispy fried onions, bake until bubbly, and top with more onions for a golden, crunchy finish.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
You can make a homemade mushroom roux with butter, flour, milk, and sautéed mushrooms.
Can I use canned green beans?
Yes, but be sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly. Fresh or frozen beans are preferred for better texture and flavor.
Related Recipes
If you loved this green bean casserole recipe, you might also enjoy:
- Classic Mashed Potatoes
- Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
- Cheesy Broccoli Bake
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Conclusion
This green bean casserole recipe is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy, savory, and crunchy elements in every bite. Perfect for holidays or as a cozy side dish, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and bring a touch of nostalgia and warmth to your table!