Looking for a foolproof and hands-off holiday side dish? This Green Bean Casserole (Crockpot) Recipe is your answer! This slow cooker version of the classic comfort food ensures perfectly cooked green beans in a creamy, flavorful sauce, all while freeing up valuable oven space. Say goodbye to holiday stress and hello to a delicious, stress-free side!
What is Green Bean Casserole?
Green bean casserole is a beloved American side dish, especially popular during Thanksgiving and Christmas. The traditional version features green beans baked in a creamy mushroom sauce and topped with crispy fried onions. However, this Green Bean Casserole (Crockpot) simplifies the process, allowing you to achieve the same delicious results with minimal effort. Instead of baking, the entire dish cooks gently in your slow cooker, preventing the green beans from drying out and ensuring a perfectly creamy consistency.
A slow cooker is a particularly smart idea, especially if you’re low on oven space during a holiday. It allows you to prep things in advance, and just set it and forget it. If you are looking for an easy take on a classic then this recipe is for you. So, gather your ingredients and let’s get cooking!
Key Ingredients for Green Bean Casserole:
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Crockpot Green Bean Casserole:
- Frozen Green Beans (32 oz): Use frozen green beans for convenience. No need to thaw them beforehand.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup (2 x 10.75 oz cans): This forms the base of the creamy sauce. Look for low-sodium options if you prefer.
- Milk (1/2 cup): Adds moisture and helps thin the soup to the desired consistency.
- Soy Sauce (1 tbsp): Provides umami and depth of flavor.
- Black Pepper (1/2 tsp): Adds a touch of spice.
- Garlic Powder (1/2 tsp): Enhances the savory flavor.
- French Fried Onions (1 1/2 cups): A must-have for the classic crispy topping. Reserve half for the end of cooking.
- Optional: Crispy Bacon Bits (1/4 cup): Adds a flavor and can be used to add other flavor.
How to Make Green Bean Casserole:
This Crockpot Green Bean Casserole is incredibly easy to make! Just dump, stir, and slow cook. The simplicity of this recipe is what makes it so appealing, especially when you’re juggling multiple dishes during the holidays. The total preparation time is only about 10 minutes, with a 3-4 hour cook time on low. The result is a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying side dish that everyone will love.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Combine Ingredients: In your slow cooker, combine the frozen green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Add French Fried Onions (Half): Add half of the French fried onions to the mixture and stir gently to incorporate. This helps to infuse the onion flavor throughout the casserole during cooking.
Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the green beans are tender. Cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker, so check for doneness around the 3-hour mark.
Top with Remaining Onions: During the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the remaining French fried onions over the top of the casserole. This ensures they become golden brown and crispy. Optional cook with crispy bacon bits.
Serve: Once the onions are crisp and golden, your Green Bean Casserole is ready to serve! Serve hot and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Green Bean Casserole:
This Green Bean Casserole (Crockpot) version brings so much to the dish. The main highlight is, without question, the convenience. By using a slow cooker, you free up valuable oven space during busy holidays, allowing you to focus on other dishes. It really helps take the edge off the stress of holiday cooking. Moreover, making this casserole at home is significantly more cost-effective than purchasing a pre-made version.
You control the quality of ingredients and can often save money (especially if you already have some common pantry staples). Finally, the combination of creamy mushroom sauce, tender green beans, and crispy fried onions is simply irresistible.
If you’re a fan of classic comfort food and enjoy easy weeknight meals, you might also want to try my Crockpot Mac and Cheese recipe. It’s another simple and satisfying dish that the whole family will love.
Try making this dish for your next family or holiday celebration!
What to Serve Green Bean Casserole With:
Green Bean Casserole is a classic side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Here are a few suggestions:
- Roasted Turkey or Chicken: A traditional pairing for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
- Ham: The salty ham complements the creamy casserole.
- Mashed Potatoes: Another classic side dish that pairs perfectly with green bean casserole.
- Stuffing or Dressing: A Thanksgiving staple that adds variety to the meal.
- Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce balances the richness of the casserole.
Top Tips for Perfecting Green Bean Casserole:
- Don’t Overcook: Overcooked green beans can become mushy. Check for doneness around the 3-hour mark and adjust cooking time as needed.
- Use Low-Sodium Soup: If you’re watching your sodium intake, use low-sodium cream of mushroom soup.
- Customize the Topping: Get creative with the topping! Try adding crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, or breadcrumbs.
- Add Fresh Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms and add them to the casserole for extra flavor.
- Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce: This can really amp up the Umami.
5 Facts about Green Bean Casserole:
- Green bean casserole was created in 1955 by Dorcas Reilly, a Campbell Soup Company employee.
- The original recipe called for cream of mushroom soup, green beans, milk, soy sauce, pepper, and French’s fried onions.
- Green bean casserole is a popular dish during Thanksgiving and Christmas in the United States.
- French’s fried onions are a key ingredient and are often considered essential to the dish.
- Variations of the recipe exist, including those that use fresh green beans or different types of cream soups.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
Storing:
- Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating:
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil during the last few minutes to crisp up the topping.
- Microwave: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
- Slow Cooker: If you have a large amount to reheat, you can use the slow cooker on low heat for 1-2 hours.
Freezing:
It’s not advised that you freeze Green Bean Casserole once cooked as it doesn’t hold up well to being frozen. The original recipe also doesn’t recommend it. This is because the creamy sauce will become grainy, the crispness will disappear, and the beans will be mushy.
To make ahead:
While you can’t freeze a cooked bean casserole you can make it one day in advance and keep it in the fridge, that is if you use fresh beans. Don’t add the fried onion until putting the casserole into the oven.
Final Thoughts:
This Green Bean Casserole (Crockpot) Recipe is a game-changer for holiday cooking. Its simplicity, convenience, and delicious flavor make it a crowd-pleaser. By using a slow cooker, you not only free up oven space but also ensure a perfectly creamy and tender casserole every time. Give it a try and enjoy a stress-free holiday season!
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest
Green Bean Casserole FAQs:
Q: Can I use fresh green beans?
A: Yes, you can! Blanch them first for 3-4 minutes, then cool them in ice water. Drain well before adding them to the slow cooker. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I use a different type of cream soup?
A: Yes, cream of celery or cream of chicken soup can be used as a substitute for cream of mushroom.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole (except for adding the fried onions on top) up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Add the fried onions just before cooking.
Q: Can I use my own homemade crispy fried onions?
A: Yes, you can get creative here, and make your own crispy additions. Use the same amount you would if it was store-bought.
Q: Can I double this recipe?
A: Yes, you can double the ingredients, but you may need to increase the cooking time slightly. Ensure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the larger quantity.