Green Bean Casserole Recipe

The classic Green Bean Casserole is a beloved dish that has stood the test of time, making its way onto dinner tables for holidays, potlucks, and family gatherings. It's known for its creamy sauce, tender green beans, and crispy fried onions on top, offering comfort food at its best. Whether you're looking for a side dish to complement your Thanksgiving feast or just want a hearty, satisfying dish for a weeknight meal, this Green Bean Casserole recipe will deliver. Follow along as we break down everything from ingredients to presentation tips, and be sure to check out the FAQs at the end for additional insights!

this Recipe

What Is Green Bean Casserole?

Green Bean Casserole is a rich and savory dish made primarily of green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions. It's typically baked in the oven until bubbly and golden brown, with the fried onions adding a crunchy contrast to the creamy sauce. Originally introduced in the 1950s by the Campbell Soup Company, this dish has since become a staple at Thanksgiving and other holiday meals. The recipe is straightforward, but you can easily customize it to fit your preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients List for Green Bean Casserole

Here's a rundown of everything you'll need to make a classic Green Bean Casserole:

• Fresh Green Beans: 1 ½ pounds, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces. Fresh green beans give the dish a vibrant texture, but canned or frozen can also work.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: 2 cans (10.5 ounces each). This is the base of the creamy sauce that coats the green beans. You can use homemade or store-bought.
• Milk: ¾ cup. This helps to thin the cream of mushroom soup for a smooth sauce.
• Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon. Adds a savory, umami flavor to the sauce.
• Ground Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon. Adjust to taste.
• Garlic Powder: ¼ teaspoon. For added depth of flavor.
• Crispy Fried Onions: 1 ½ cups, divided. These crunchy onions are a key part of the casserole, mixed into the dish and also used as a topping.

Substitutions and Variations

There are plenty of ways to adjust this recipe based on what you have on hand or your specific tastes. Here are some popular substitutions and variations:

• Green Beans: If you don’t have fresh green beans, you can substitute with 2 cans of drained green beans or use frozen green beans. Canned green beans will have a softer texture, while frozen green beans are a closer match to fresh.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: For a homemade version, you can make your own cream sauce by combining butter, flour, milk, and sautéed mushrooms. If you don't like mushrooms, cream of chicken or cream of celery soup also works.
• Vegan Option: Use a dairy-free cream of mushroom soup, almond milk, and crispy fried onions made without dairy. Make sure to check the label on your onions, as some may contain milk.
• Cheesy Green Bean Casserole: Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture before baking for a rich, cheesy version.
• Bacon Addition: For added flavor, stir in crumbled cooked bacon or turkey bacon before baking.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make a perfect Green Bean Casserole:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to preheat while you prepare the ingredients.
2. Cook the Green Beans: If you’re using fresh green beans, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for about 5 minutes, or until tender-crisp. Drain and set aside. If using frozen green beans, thaw them before adding to the casserole. Canned green beans should be drained.
3. Prepare the Casserole Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, black pepper, and garlic powder. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the Green Beans: Stir the cooked green beans into the soup mixture until they are well-coated. Add ½ cup of the crispy fried onions into the mixture and stir.
5. Transfer to Casserole Dish: Pour the green bean mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbling around the edges.
7. Add Topping: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of crispy fried onions on top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the onions are golden and crispy.
8. Serve: Once the casserole is bubbly and the fried onions are golden, remove from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Green Beans: If you’re using fresh green beans, make sure to cook them until tender-crisp before adding them to the casserole. Overcooking them in the boiling water will result in a mushy texture.
• Skipping the Topping: The crispy fried onion topping is what makes this casserole special. Don’t skip it, and make sure to add it at the right time to avoid burning.
• Not Seasoning the Sauce: While the soup provides some flavor, it’s important to season the sauce with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to enhance the overall dish.

Serving and Presentation Tips

A little effort in presentation can elevate this humble dish into something that looks just as good as it tastes:

• Family Style: Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish at the table. For a rustic look, use a cast iron or ceramic dish.
• Individual Servings: Spoon portions onto individual plates with some of the crispy fried onions on top of each serving to ensure everyone gets a bit of the crunchy topping.
• Garnish: For a pop of color, sprinkle the top with a bit of fresh parsley or chopped chives just before serving.

How to Serve Green Bean Casserole

Green Bean Casserole is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of mains. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Thanksgiving Turkey: This dish is a holiday staple and pairs beautifully with roasted turkey and gravy.
• Roast Chicken: Serve this casserole alongside a juicy roasted chicken for a comforting and balanced meal.
• Ham or Pork Roast: The savory creaminess of the casserole complements the sweet and salty flavors of ham or pork roast.
• With a Vegetarian Feast: If you're serving a vegetarian meal, Green Bean Casserole works well with mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.

Presentation Ideas for Green Bean Casserole

Make your casserole stand out with these presentation ideas:

• Skillet Presentation: Serve the casserole directly from a large cast iron skillet for a farmhouse-style presentation.
• Festive Dish: Use a colorful ceramic or glass casserole dish, especially for holiday gatherings, to make the dish visually appealing.
• Mini Casseroles: Make individual portions in small ramekins or mini cast iron pans for an elegant and personalized serving style.

Green Bean Casserole Recipe Tips

Here are some expert tips to ensure your Green Bean Casserole turns out perfect every time:

• Prepare Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature first or extend the baking time by 10-15 minutes.
• Use Fresh or Frozen Green Beans: For the best texture, opt for fresh or frozen green beans over canned, which tend to be mushier.
• Customize the Sauce: For a richer sauce, replace the milk with half-and-half or add a dollop of sour cream to the mixture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Green Bean Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just wait to add the crispy fried onions until just before baking to prevent them from becoming soggy.

2. Can I freeze Green Bean Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before or after baking. If freezing before baking, omit the fried onions until just before serving. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

3. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and gluten-free crispy fried onions. Some brands offer these alternatives, or you can make your own at home.

4. What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you don’t like mushrooms or don’t have the soup on hand, you can use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup instead. For a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free condensed soup.

5. How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the crispy topping may lose some of its texture.

Conclusion

Green Bean Casserole is a time-honored dish that’s both comforting and easy to make. With its creamy sauce, tender green beans, and crispy onion topping, it’s no wonder this dish remains a favorite at holiday dinners and potlucks. Follow the recipe and tips in this guide, and don’t be afraid to experiment with variations or substitutions to make the dish your own. Whether you’re preparing it for Thanksgiving or just a weeknight dinner, this casserole is sure to be a hit! Happy cooking!

Print