Green Bean Casserole

Green bean casserole is a classic comfort dish that has been a staple at holiday dinners for generations. Made with tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and crispy fried onions, this dish is the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re preparing it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a cozy family dinner, green bean casserole is a must-have side dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and quick – With minimal prep time, this dish is easy to put together.
• Crowd-pleaser – A family favorite that even picky eaters enjoy.
• Perfect for holidays – A staple dish for Thanksgiving and other festive gatherings.
• Customizable – You can make it from scratch or use shortcuts for convenience.
• Great texture – Creamy, crunchy, and full of flavor.

Ingredients

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

• Fresh or canned green beans
• Condensed cream of mushroom soup
• Milk
• Soy sauce
• Black pepper
• Crispy fried onions

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread it out evenly.
4. Bake for 25 minutes until hot and bubbly.
5. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the crispy fried onions on top.
6. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the onions are golden brown.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 30-35 minutes
• Total time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

• From scratch: Use fresh mushrooms and a homemade cream sauce instead of canned soup.
• Cheesy version: Add shredded cheddar cheese for extra richness.
• Bacon twist: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits for added crunch and flavor.
• Spicy kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and fried onions.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the casserole (without the fried onions) for up to 2 months. Add the onions after reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or in the microwave in 30-second intervals.

FAQs

How do I prevent my green bean casserole from getting watery?

Make sure to drain canned green beans well or pat fresh green beans dry after boiling them.

Can I make green bean casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole without the fried onions and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance. Add the onions just before baking.

Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?

Absolutely! Blanch fresh green beans in boiling water for 3-4 minutes before using them.

What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?

A homemade sauce made with butter, flour, milk, and mushrooms works great as a substitute.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free cream soup and non-dairy milk like almond or soy milk.

Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, but thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.

How do I keep the fried onions from burning?

Add them during the last 5-10 minutes of baking rather than at the beginning.

What size baking dish should I use?

A 9×13-inch dish works well for this recipe.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time as needed.

Is green bean casserole only for holidays?

Not at all! It’s a delicious side dish for any meal, year-round.

Conclusion

Green bean casserole is a timeless dish that brings comfort and nostalgia to the table. Its creamy texture, savory flavors, and crunchy topping make it a standout side for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the tasty variations, this dish is sure to be a hit. Enjoy it at your next gathering and savor the flavors of this beloved classic!

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