Name: Green Bean Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 16 ounces frozen cut green beans (thawed); 8 ounces cream of mushroom soup; 3/4 cup milk; 1 teaspoon soy sauce; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 1/2 cups crispy fried onions (divided)

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Every holiday season, my family gathers around the table, and one dish inevitably makes an appearance: Green Bean Casserole. This classic recipe brings back memories of laughter, stories, and the comforting aroma of home-cooked goodness wafting through the air. My aunt used to make this dish, and I remember watching her mix the ingredients with so much love. The blend of frozen green beans, creamy soup, and crispy fried onions creates a harmony of flavors that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a centerpiece of our feasts. I love how easy it is to prepare, allowing me to spend more time with family and less time in the kitchen. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a cozy family dinner, Green Bean Casserole always brings us together.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
35 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
220 kcal

Protein:
5 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Baking Sheet, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon

Why This Green Bean Casserole Is a Winner

It’s a Timeless Classic

Green Bean Casserole has been a staple in American households for decades. Its origins date back to the 1950s, and it’s still cherished today. The combination of flavors and textures – from the tender green beans to the crunchy fried onions – makes each bite memorable. This dish is not just about feeding the family; it’s about tradition.

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

What I love about Green Bean Casserole is that it doesn’t require exotic ingredients. You probably already have everything you need in your pantry. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Just a few basic ingredients come together to create something truly special.

Perfect for Any Occasion

While it’s a holiday favorite, this casserole is perfect for any gathering. From potlucks to casual dinners, it fits right in. Its adaptability makes it a go-to recipe whenever I need to bring a dish to share.

Quick and Easy to Make

One of the best parts of Green Bean Casserole is how easy it is to prepare. You can whip it up in no time, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. It’s a lifesaver when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

A Crowd-Pleaser

Let’s face it – everyone loves this dish! It’s a guaranteed hit among kids and adults alike. The creamy texture and crunchy topping attract everyone around the table. You don’t have to worry about leftovers because this casserole disappears quickly!

Comfort Food at Its Best

When I think of comfort food, Green Bean Casserole always comes to mind. It’s warm, creamy, and downright delicious. On chilly days, there’s nothing better than cozying up with a plate of this casserole. It nourishes not just the body but also the soul.

What You Need for Green Bean Casserole

The ingredients for Green Bean Casserole work together beautifully to create a dish that’s packed with flavor and texture. The frozen green beans provide a fresh taste, while the cream of mushroom soup adds creaminess. And let’s not forget about the crispy fried onions – they bring a delightful crunch that makes this dish truly irresistible.

16 ounces frozen cut green beans (thawed): These green beans are the star of the dish, providing a vibrant color and fresh taste, even when frozen. Make sure to thaw them properly for the best texture.
8 ounces cream of mushroom soup: This ingredient serves as the creamy base, adding a rich flavor that melds perfectly with the green beans.
3/4 cup milk: A splash of milk enhances the creaminess of the soup, ensuring that the casserole is perfectly moist and delicious.
1 teaspoon soy sauce: Just a hint of soy sauce adds depth to the flavors, enhancing the savory notes of the dish.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A dash of black pepper brings a subtle kick, balancing the creamy richness.
1 1/2 cups crispy fried onions (divided): These crunchy toppings are essential for that satisfying texture. They’re sprinkled throughout the casserole and then added on top for an extra crispy finish.

The Process for Making Green Bean Casserole

Making Green Bean Casserole is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Let’s dive into the steps to create this comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This temperature is ideal for ensuring the casserole bakes evenly and gets beautifully bubbly.
In a casserole dish, combine the thawed green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, black pepper, and 1 cup of crispy fried onions. Stir well to make sure everything is evenly mixed. You want to see the green beans coated in that lovely creamy mixture.
Once mixed, place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 minutes. During this time, the mixture will become hot and bubbly, and you’ll start to smell that comforting aroma!
After 25 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven. Give it a good stir to combine everything again. Then, top with the remaining 1/2 cup of crispy fried onions. This step is crucial for achieving that signature crunch on top.
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as you want the fried onions to turn a golden brown. This color indicates they’re perfectly crispy.
Once the onions are golden and the casserole is bubbling, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This waiting time allows the flavors to settle and makes serving easier.

Things Worth Knowing

Using fresh green beans: If you prefer fresh over frozen, feel free to use them! Just cook them slightly before adding to the casserole to ensure they’re tender.
Make it ahead: This dish can be prepared a day in advance. Just cover it and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Vegan option: For a plant-based twist, use a vegan cream of mushroom soup and plant-based milk.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

There are countless ways to put your own spin on Green Bean Casserole. Here are some adaptations to consider:

Add cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top before baking for an extra cheesy version.
Mix in other vegetables: Feel free to throw in other veggies like mushrooms or sweet corn for added flavor and texture.
Spice it up: Add some crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle heat that balances the creaminess.
Different toppings: Instead of fried onions, consider using crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for a different crunch.
Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensure your toppings are also gluten-free.
Herbs and spices: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary to give the casserole a fresh twist.

What Complements This Green Bean Casserole

Serving Green Bean Casserole is just as important as making it. Here are some ideas for pairing this delicious dish:

Mashed potatoes: A classic companion, creamy mashed potatoes work wonderfully alongside this casserole.
Roasted turkey: This dish is a staple for Thanksgiving, making it a perfect side for roasted turkey.
Gravy: Drizzling some gravy over both the casserole and mashed potatoes elevates the meal.
Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad for a light contrast to the richness of the casserole.
Seasonal occasions: Green Bean Casserole is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any family gathering.
Storage tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last up to three days and make for a quick reheat meal!

FAQ

Absolutely! Fresh green beans can be used in Green Bean Casserole. Just make sure to blanch them slightly before mixing them into the casserole. This will ensure they cook properly during baking and remain tender.

To make Green Bean Casserole vegetarian, simply use a vegetarian-friendly cream of mushroom soup and ensure that your crispy fried onions are also vegetarian. This way, you can still enjoy the classic flavors without any meat products.

Yes, you can prepare Green Bean Casserole a day in advance. Just assemble the casserole without baking it, cover it, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time for best results.

This delicious casserole pairs well with many dishes. Consider serving it alongside roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. It’s a versatile side dish that fits perfectly in any meal setting.

Conclusion

The Green Bean Casserole is more than just a side dish; it’s a beloved tradition that warms the heart. I encourage you to try this recipe for your next family gathering or holiday celebration. You’ll find that it brings everyone together around the table, making every meal a little more special.