Looking for the ultimate hands-off side dish for your next holiday gathering or weeknight meal? This Crockpot Green Bean Casserole is your answer! It’s the classic comfort food you love, made even easier in the slow cooker. This recipe will tell you what a crockpot green bean casserole is and how to wow your friends and family!
What is Crockpot Green Bean Casserole?
Crockpot Green Bean Casserole is a reimagining of the beloved green bean casserole, a staple at holiday tables and family dinners. Instead of baking in the oven, this version utilizes the slow cooker, also known as a Crock-Pot, for a hands-off cooking experience. This method gently cooks the green beans, allowing the creamy mushroom sauce to meld beautifully with the other ingredients.
The result is a tender, flavorful, and convenient side dish that frees up oven space and minimizes active cooking time. It maintains the original rich flavors and textures but adds the ease of slow cooking, making it ideal for busy cooks or large gatherings.
Want creamy, dreamy green bean goodness without the oven hassle? Try this Crockpot Green Bean Casserole recipe!
Key Ingredients for Crockpot Green Bean Casserole:
Here’s what you’ll need to assemble the tastiest Crockpot Green Bean Casserole:
- 2 (14.5 ounce) cans cut green beans, drained: Canned green beans provide convenience and consistency. Ensure they are well-drained to prevent a watery casserole.
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup: The base of the creamy sauce. You can substitute with cream of celery or chicken soup for a different flavor profile.
- 1 cup milk: Adds creaminess and helps to thin the soup. Use whole milk for the richest flavor, or a lower fat option if preferred.
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce: Enhances the savory flavors and adds depth to the casserole.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of spice and complements the other flavors.
- ½ cup canned fried onions, divided: The iconic topping and essential for that classic green bean casserole taste. Reserve half for the end to maintain crispness.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted: Adds richness and flavor.
- Optional – 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, cheesy flavor to the casserole. Adding with the onions and butter will allow it to melt and become more creamy.
How to Make Crockpot Green Bean Casserole:
This Crockpot Green Bean Casserole is incredibly easy, ready in under 2 hours on high or 4 hours on low. The creamy sauce, tender green beans, and crispy fried onions create a comforting and satisfying side dish that everyone will love. Minimal prep time, maximum flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these simple steps to create the most delicious Crockpot Green Bean Casserole:
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained green beans, condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, pepper, butter, and half of the canned fried onions ( ¼ cup ). Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. If using cheddar, add it at this step as well.
- Transfer to Crockpot: Pour the mixture into a greased 4-quart or larger slow cooker. Spread evenly to ensure even cooking.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1.5-2 hours, or until the green beans are heated through and the sauce is bubbly. Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker, so check periodically.
- Add Remaining Onions: During the last 30 minutes of cook time on low or 15 minutes on high, sprinkle the remaining canned fried onions over the top of the casserole.
- Serve: Once the onions are golden brown and crispy, serve the Crockpot Green Bean Casserole hot.
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Green Bean Casserole:
This Crockpot Green Bean Casserole is going to be your new go-to holiday side! The main highlight is its ultimate convenience. Set it and forget it in the slow cooker! No oven space needed, and it stays warm until serving time. Imagine the oven space you can save knowing you can do this dish in a Crockpot. Plus, making it at home is a huge cost saver compared to store-bought varieties.
You control the ingredients, ensuring quality and freshness, and you can tailor it to your family’s preferences. The topping of crispy fried onions adds that signature crunch and flavor explosion that everyone loves! It’s a nostalgic comfort food with a modern, easier twist.
If you enjoy this classic, you could also explore a homemade cream of mushroom soup version for an even richer flavor. But for ease and convenience, this Crockpot version wins every time!
Ready to ditch the oven and embrace the simplicity of slow-cooked goodness? Make this Crockpot Green Bean Casserole today!
What to Serve Crockpot Green Bean Casserole With:
Crockpot Green Bean Casserole is a versatile side dish that complements a wide range of main courses. Consider pairing it with:
- Roasted Turkey or Chicken: A classic pairing for holiday meals.
- Ham: The salty-sweet flavor of ham balances perfectly with the savory casserole.
- Meatloaf: A comforting and hearty meal option.
- Mashed Potatoes: Another classic side that pairs well with the creamy casserole.
- Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce provides a nice contrast to the rich casserole.
Top Tips for Perfecting Crockpot Green Bean Casserole:
Here are some tips to ensure your Crockpot Green Bean Casserole turns out perfectly every time:
- Don’t Overcook: Overcooking can result in mushy green beans. Check the casserole periodically and adjust cooking time as needed.
- Use Quality Ingredients: The flavor of the casserole depends on the quality of the ingredients. Use high-quality canned green beans and cream of mushroom soup.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the casserole before adding the fried onions and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add a pinch of salt or garlic powder.
- Crispy Onions: For extra crispy fried onions, consider toasting them lightly in a skillet before adding them to the casserole.
- Mix-ins: Feel free to add other your favorite vegetables or cheeses to the recipe to make it more suited to your personal taste!
Health Benefits of Crockpot Green Bean Casserole:
While this recipe is undoubtedly delicious and rooted in tradition, it’s essential to acknowledge its nutritional content. Canned green beans offer some fiber, and milk provides calcium. However, the condensed soup can be high in sodium.
To make it healthier, consider using reduced-sodium soup and adding fresh or frozen green beans for increased nutrient content. Adding fresh mushrooms increases the recipe’s health benefit as well!
Storing and Reheating Tips:
Storing:
- Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating:
- Microwave: Reheat individual portions in the microwave until heated through.
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the casserole to an oven-safe dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
- Slow Cooker: Add the leftovers back to the greased slow cooker and heat for 1-2 hours on low.
Freezing:
- Freezing cooked green bean casserole is not recommended as the creamy sauce may separate and the green beans can become mushy.
Final Thoughts:
This Crockpot Green Bean Casserole recipe is a testament to the fact that classic comfort food can be both delicious and convenient. By using the slow cooker, you free up oven space and minimize active cooking time, making it perfect for busy days and festive gatherings.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and yields consistently delicious results. So, gather your ingredients, plug in your Crock-Pot, and get ready to enjoy a creamy, satisfying side dish that will delight your taste buds!
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest
Crockpot Green Bean Casserole FAQs:
Q: Can I use fresh green beans?
A: Yes! Blanch fresh green beans until tender-crisp before adding them to the slow cooker. This will ensure they cook properly.
Q: Can I use a different type of soup?
A: Absolutely! Cream of celery or cream of chicken soup work well as alternatives to cream of mushroom soup.
Q: Can I add cheese?
A: Yes! Adding shredded cheddar or your favorite cheese to the casserole is a delicious addition. Stir it in with the other ingredients before cooking.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Q: How do I prevent the casserole from being watery?
A: Ensure the green beans are thoroughly drained before adding them to the slow cooker. You can also reduce the amount of milk slightly if needed.
Q: Can I use french fried onions instead?
A: Yes! French Fried Onions can be used instead of the canned friend onions. Follow the same instructions for adding them to the slow cooker.
Enjoy this delicious and easy Crockpot Green Bean Casserole! This recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.