If you’re searching for the quintessential side dish that embodies warmth, tradition, and pure deliciousness, look no further than this Classic Homemade Green Bean Casserole. This recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and undeniably satisfying twist on a beloved classic, perfect for any holiday table or a cozy weeknight meal. It’s a dish that brings smiles and fills tummies with its comforting flavors and effortless preparation.
Key Ingredients for Classic Homemade Green Bean Casserole
To create this delectable Classic Homemade Green Bean Casserole, gather these essential ingredients:
- 2 (14.5-ounce) cans cut green beans, drained (you can also use 1.5 lbs fresh green beans, trimmed and blanched)
- ½ cup milk (whole milk or 2% works best for richness)
- 1 (10.75-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup (choose a good quality brand for the best flavor)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese that melts well, like Gruyere or Monterey Jack)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (adds a subtle, savory depth)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground is always best)
- 1 (6-ounce) can crispy fried onions (these are crucial for that signature crunch and flavor!)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for the topping, optional but recommended for extra golden crispness)
How to Make Classic Homemade Green Bean Casserole
This Classic Homemade Green Bean Casserole is an incredibly easy, delicious, and satisfying dish that comes together effortlessly. With its simple steps and short prep time, you’ll be enjoying a creamy, savory casserole topped with irresistibly golden and crunchy fried onions in under 45 minutes, making it a perfect last-minute addition to any dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 1 ½-quart baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or a little butter. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
- Combine the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained green beans, milk, condensed cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheddar cheese, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir gently with a spoon or spatula until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed and the green beans are evenly coated.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the green bean mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly using the back of your spoon or spatula.
- Initial Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the cheese within is melted and gooey.
- Add Crispy Topping: Remove the casserole from the oven. Sprinkle the crispy fried onions evenly over the top of the hot casserole. If you desire an extra golden and buttery crunch, drizzle the melted butter over the fried onions.
- Final Bake: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the fried onions are golden brown and perfectly crispy. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning as they can brown quickly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Carefully remove the Classic Homemade Green Bean Casserole from the oven. Let it stand for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly. Serve warm and savor every comforting bite!
Why You’ll Love This Classic Homemade Green Bean Casserole
You’ll absolutely adore this Classic Homemade Green Bean Casserole for its unmatched nostalgic charm and incredible flavor. The main feature is its perfect balance of creamy, savory green beans contrasted beautifully with the iconic crispy fried onion topping. It’s a cost-saving miracle, allowing you to whip up a truly satisfying side dish at a fraction of the price of store-bought alternatives, using simple pantry staples.
This casserole is a true crowd-pleaser, delivering rich, umami flavors that go far beyond a simple vegetable side. The hint of onion powder deepens the savory notes, and that buttery, crunchy fried onion layer is simply irresistible – much better than a basic steamed green bean dish! Don’t just take our word for it; give this easy, heartwarming Classic Homemade Green Bean Casserole a try in your kitchen tonight!
What to Serve Classic Homemade Green Bean Casserole With
This Classic Homemade Green Bean Casserole is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a wide array of dishes, making it a fantastic addition to almost any meal. For a traditional holiday feast, it’s a must-have alongside a Roasted Turkey or a succulent Holiday Ham.
Beyond the holidays, it shines next to a juicy Roast Chicken or tender Pork Loin. For a more casual weeknight dinner, consider serving it with Meatloaf, Pan-Seared Pork Chops, or even a simple Grilled Salmon. The creamy texture of the casserole complements heartier main courses perfectly.
To complete your meal, consider adding a light, crisp salad with a vinaigrette dressing to balance the richness, or a side of Garlic Mashed Potatoes for ultimate comfort food indulgence. A warm basket of Crusty Bread is also excellent for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce.
Top Tips for Perfecting Classic Homemade Green Bean Casserole
To ensure your Classic Homemade Green Bean Casserole turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Fresh vs. Canned Green Beans: While canned green beans are traditional and convenient, fresh blanched green beans (boiled for 3-5 minutes until tender-crisp, then shocked in ice water) offer a firmer texture and brighter flavor. If using fresh, ensure they are thoroughly drained to prevent a watery casserole.
- Flavor Boosters: Don’t be afraid to enhance the flavor beyond the basics! A pinch of garlic powder, a dash of Worcestershire sauce, or even a tablespoon of dry sherry can add remarkable depth to the soup mixture. Sautéed fresh mushrooms or a few slivered almonds can also be stirred in or sprinkled on top for extra texture.
- Cheese Choice: While cheddar is a great choice, experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere for a more sophisticated, nutty flavor, or a blend of Monterey Jack and Colby for extra meltiness. Ensure the cheese is freshly shredded for the best melt – pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can hinder smooth melting.
- Crispy Onion Strategy: The fried onions are key! If you want them extra crispy and don’t mind extra fat, lightly toss them with a tablespoon of melted butter before sprinkling them on top. For an even crunchier crust, you can also mix a small amount (about ¼ cup) of the fried onions into the green bean mixture before baking, saving the majority for the topping.
- Avoid Overbaking: Watch the casserole carefully, especially during the second bake with the fried onions. Overbaking can dry out the green beans and cause the onions to burn. Once the onions are golden brown and the casserole is bubbly, it’s ready!
- Customizing the Creaminess: If you prefer a thicker casserole, reduce the milk to ¼ cup. For a looser, creamier consistency, you can add an extra splash of milk (up to ¼ cup) until it reaches your desired texture.
- Make Ahead Option: You can assemble the casserole (without the fried onion topping) up to one day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before baking as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the initial bake time if still very cold. Add the fried onions only for the final bake.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Proper storage and reheating will ensure your Classic Homemade Green Bean Casserole remains delicious for days to come.
- Refrigeration: Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This prevents the casserole from drying out and keeps it fresh.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze this casserole. After cooling completely, transfer the casserole to a freezer-safe dish or individual portions into freezer bags. If freezing in the baking dish, cover it tightly with aluminum foil and then plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Note that the fried onions may lose some of their crispness after freezing and reheating.
- Reheating (Oven): The best way to reheat is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the casserole (covered with foil if it solidified) in the oven and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, this could take 45-60 minutes, still covered. If the topping has softened, you can remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes to crisp it up slightly.
- Reheating (Microwave): For individual portions, the microwave is a quick option. Place a serving on a microwave-safe plate and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot. Be aware that the texture of the fried onions will likely remain soft with microwave reheating.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Homemade Green Bean Casserole is more than just a side dish; it’s a timeless celebration of comfort and tradition. Simple to make yet incredibly satisfying, it’s destined to become a beloved staple in your home. Don’t hesitate—gather your ingredients and create this warming, delicious classic today!
try also :
- Lentil and Sweet Potato Salad
- Cranberry Brie Bites
- Crispy Sweet Potato Bites
- Matcha Cake Recipe
- find more in Pinterest
Classic Homemade Green Bean Casserole FAQs
Q1: Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
A1: Absolutely! For a fresher taste and firmer texture, you can use 1.5 lbs of fresh green beans. Trim them, blanch them in boiling water for 3-5 minutes until tender-crisp, then shock them in ice water before mixing them into the casserole. Ensure they are thoroughly drained.
Q2: What if I don’t like cream of mushroom soup? Can I substitute it?
A2: While cream of mushroom soup is traditional, you can make your own cream sauce using butter, flour, milk, and broth for a homemade alternative. You could also try cream of chicken soup for a different flavor profile, though it won’t be a true “classic.”
Q3: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A3: Yes! You can assemble the casserole (all ingredients except the crispy fried onions) up to one day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before baking, then add the fried onions for the final bake.
Q4: How do I prevent the crispy fried onions from burning?
A4: Keep a close eye on the casserole during the final baking stage. The onions can brown very quickly. Once they are golden brown and crispy, remove the casserole from the oven promptly.
Q5: What other cheeses can I use?
A5: While cheddar is a great choice, Gruyere offers a wonderful nutty flavor, Monterey Jack provides excellent meltiness and a mild taste, and a blend of Colby and Jack is also a good option. Choose a cheese that melts well and complements the savory flavors of the casserole.
Classic Homemade Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 1 ½-quart baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or a little butter. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
- Combine the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained green beans, milk, condensed cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheddar cheese, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir gently with a spoon or spatula until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed and the green beans are evenly coated.2 (14.5-ounce) cans cut green beans, ½ cup milk, 1 (10.75-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1 teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the green bean mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly using the back of your spoon or spatula.
- Initial Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the cheese within is melted and gooey.
- Add Crispy Topping: Remove the casserole from the oven. Sprinkle the crispy fried onions evenly over the top of the hot casserole. If you desire an extra golden and buttery crunch, drizzle the melted butter over the fried onions.1 (6-ounce) can crispy fried onions, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Final Bake: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the fried onions are golden brown and perfectly crispy. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning as they can brown quickly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Carefully remove the Classic Homemade Green Bean Casserole from the oven. Let it stand for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly. Serve warm and savor every comforting bite!
Notes
- **Fresh vs. Canned Green Beans:** While canned green beans are traditional and convenient, fresh blanched green beans (boiled for 3-5 minutes until tender-crisp, then shocked in ice water) offer a firmer texture and brighter flavor. If using fresh, ensure they are thoroughly drained to prevent a watery casserole.
- **Flavor Boosters:** Don’t be afraid to enhance the flavor beyond the basics! A pinch of garlic powder, a dash of Worcestershire sauce, or even a tablespoon of dry sherry can add remarkable depth to the soup mixture. Sautéed fresh mushrooms or a few slivered almonds can also be stirred in or sprinkled on top for extra texture.
- **Cheese Choice:** While cheddar is a great choice, experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere for a more sophisticated, nutty flavor, or a blend of Monterey Jack and Colby for extra meltiness. Ensure the cheese is freshly shredded for the best melt – pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can hinder smooth melting.
- **Crispy Onion Strategy:** The fried onions are key! If you want them extra crispy and don’t mind extra fat, lightly toss them with a tablespoon of melted butter before sprinkling them on top. For an even crunchier crust, you can also mix a small amount (about ¼ cup) of the fried onions into the green bean mixture before baking, saving the majority for the topping.
- **Avoid Overbaking:** Watch the casserole carefully, especially during the second bake with the fried onions. Overbaking can dry out the green beans and cause the onions to burn. Once the onions are golden brown and the casserole is bubbly, it’s ready!
- **Customizing the Creaminess:** If you prefer a thicker casserole, reduce the milk to ¼ cup. For a looser, creamier consistency, you can add an extra splash of milk (up to ¼ cup) until it reaches your desired texture.
- **Make Ahead Option:** You can assemble the casserole (without the fried onion topping) up to one day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before baking as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the initial bake time if still very cold. Add the fried onions only for the final bake.