Green Bean Casserole

Green Bean Casserole is a timeless side dish that’s creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor. Made with tender green beans, a rich mushroom sauce, and a crispy topping, it’s a must-have at holiday dinners and family gatherings. Whether you’re serving it for Thanksgiving or a Sunday roast, this dish always earns a spot on the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic comfort food with simple ingredients
• Ready in under an hour
• Can be made ahead for easy prep during busy holidays
• Rich, creamy texture paired with a crispy, golden topping
• Perfect balance of vegetables and savory flavor

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh, frozen, or canned green beans
• Cream of mushroom soup
• Milk
• Soy sauce (or Worcestershire for added depth)
• Garlic powder
• Black pepper
• Crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade)
• Salt (if needed, to taste)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the green beans:
   • If using fresh beans: trim and blanch in boiling water for 4–5 minutes, then drain and cool.
   • If using frozen beans: thaw and drain.
   • If using canned beans: drain well.
3. Make the sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until smooth.
4. Assemble the casserole: Add the green beans and half of the crispy onions to the sauce. Stir to coat evenly, then spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake: Bake uncovered for 25 minutes.
6. Add topping: Remove from the oven, sprinkle the remaining crispy onions on top, and return to bake for another 5–10 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
7. Serve: Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
• Total Time: 40–45 minutes

Variations

• Homemade mushroom sauce: Use sautéed mushrooms, garlic, flour, broth, and cream instead of canned soup.
• Cheesy twist: Add shredded cheddar or Parmesan to the sauce for a richer flavor.
• Add crunch: Mix chopped almonds or toasted breadcrumbs into the topping.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for heat.
• Vegan version: Use plant-based milk, vegan mushroom soup, and dairy-free crispy onions.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the assembled (unbaked) casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbly. Add fresh onions on top if needed to restore crunch.

FAQs

Can I make green bean casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it up to a day in advance (without the topping), cover, and refrigerate. Add the fried onions just before baking.

What kind of green beans should I use?

Fresh, frozen, or canned all work. Fresh offers the best texture, but frozen is a great second choice.

How do I keep the fried onions crispy?

Add them only during the final 5–10 minutes of baking so they don’t get soggy.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Use a larger baking dish or make two smaller casseroles.

What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?

You can make a simple homemade sauce using sautéed mushrooms, butter, flour, broth, and cream or milk.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and certified gluten-free fried onions.

Can I add protein to make it a main dish?

Yes, cooked chicken or ground turkey can be mixed in for a hearty casserole.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes, assemble and cook on low for 3–4 hours. Add fried onions just before serving.

What sides go well with green bean casserole?

Mashed potatoes, roasted meats, stuffing, or dinner rolls pair wonderfully.

Can I use other vegetables?

Yes, mix in corn, carrots, or peas for added color and texture.

Conclusion

Green Bean Casserole is a nostalgic classic that never goes out of style. Creamy, savory, and topped with a satisfying crunch, it’s the kind of dish that brings comfort to any table. Whether you keep it traditional or try a new twist, this recipe is sure to be a family favorite for years to come.

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