Looking for the quintessential Green Bean Casserole recipe to grace your Thanksgiving table? You’ve found it! This dish is a Thanksgiving staple, beloved for its creamy, savory flavor, crispy fried onion topping, and ease of preparation. This classic recipe walks you through each step to guarantee a crowd-pleasing side dish that will disappear quickly. This Green Bean Casserole is a beloved favorite, and with this step-by-step guide, you’ll have a delicious side dish ready to impress.
What is Green Bean Casserole?
Green Bean Casserole is a classic American side dish, particularly popular during Thanksgiving and other holiday meals. It typically features green beans (fresh, canned, or frozen) combined with a creamy mushroom soup sauce. The casserole is then topped with crispy fried onions, providing a delightful crunch and savory flavor that complements the green beans perfectly.
It’s known for its comforting taste and simple preparation, making it a convenient and well-loved addition to any festive spread. The origins of this dish trace back to the Campbell Soup Company in the 1950s, designed as a way to showcase their cream of mushroom soup. Simple, delicious, and nostalgic, the Green Bean Casserole continues to be a must-have on many tables. Ready to try it for yourself?
Key Ingredients for Green Bean Casserole:
- 2 (14.5 ounce) cans cut green beans, drained: Canned green beans are the most commonly used for convenience, but you can substitute with 1 pound of fresh or frozen green beans. If using fresh or frozen, blanch them briefly before adding them to the casserole.
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup: This is the base of the creamy sauce. Do not add water.
- 1/2 cup milk: Adds moisture and thins the soup slightly for a smooth consistency.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: Enhances the flavor of the casserole.
- 1 1/3 cups French fried onions, divided: Adds a crispy, savory topping that is essential to the casserole. Use only 2/3 cup in the casserole mixture, and the remaining amount as the topping.
How to Make Green Bean Casserole:
This Green Bean Casserole recipe is incredibly easy and will be ready in under an hour. Its simplicity and the satisfying flavors make it a holiday hit! The creamy mushroom sauce perfectly complements the tender green beans, and that crispy fried onion topping? Irresistible.
It takes approximately 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes of cooking time. Let’s get started!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the drained green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, pepper, and 2/3 cup of the French fried onions. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Pour into Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a 1 1/2-quart baking dish. You can use a casserole dish, a deep pie dish, or any oven-safe dish of similar size.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbly.
- Add Onion Topping: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 2/3 cup of French fried onions evenly over the top.
- Bake Again: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the French fried onions are golden brown and crispy. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Cool Slightly and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly and prevents burning your mouth.
Why You’ll Love This Green Bean Casserole:
You’ll adore this Green Bean Casserole because it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! The creamy, savory base provides a comforting, familiar flavor, while the crispy fried onions add a delightful contrast in texture and a burst of savory goodness.
Making this classic at home is also incredibly cost-effective. Instead of buying a pre-made casserole, you can control the quality of ingredients and save money. You’ll likely have most of the ingredients already in your pantry! The generous topping of crispy fried onions takes this dish to the next level. Their salty, crunchy texture complements the soft green beans and creamy sauce perfectly.
If you’re looking for another easy vegetable side dish, why not try roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze? While the Brussels sprouts offer a different flavor profile, both recipes are simple, satisfying, and perfect for a family meal. Give both a try and let me know which one you prefer! This Green Bean Casserole is the perfect recipe for beginners, perfect for family gatherings, and will be gone within minutes. Get ready to bake and enjoy!
What to Serve Green Bean Casserole With:
Green Bean Casserole is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Since it’s a staple at Thanksgiving, it naturally complements roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing. For a more diverse meal, consider serving it alongside:
- Roasted Chicken or Ham: The savory flavors of roasted chicken or ham complement the creamy casserole beautifully.
- Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
- Cornbread or Dinner Rolls: Warm cornbread or dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
- Roasted Carrots or Sweet Potatoes: Add another vegetable side dish with a touch of sweetness to round out the meal.
Top Tips for Perfecting Green Bean Casserole:
- Use Fresh Green Beans (Optional): For a fresher flavor, use 1 pound of fresh green beans. Trim the ends and blanch them in boiling water for 3-5 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain well before adding them to the casserole.
- Try Different Types of Soup: While cream of mushroom soup is traditional, you can experiment with other flavors like cream of celery or cream of chicken for a slightly different taste.
- Add Seasoning: While the soup provides plenty of flavor, you can add a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika to enhance the taste.
- Crispy Onion Control: To prevent the French fried onions from burning, you can add them halfway through the baking time or tent the casserole with foil during the final minutes.
- Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can dry out the casserole. Bake until it’s heated through and the topping is golden brown.
- Creamy Sauce Enhancement: For an even creamier sauce, stir in a tablespoon of sour cream or cream cheese before baking.
Health Benefits of Green Bean Casserole:
While Green Bean Casserole is often considered a comfort food, it does offer some nutritional benefits, primarily from the green beans themselves. Green beans are a good source of fiber, which aids in digestion and helps you feel full. They also contain vitamins A and C, which are important for immune function and overall health. Additionally, green beans provide some iron and other essential minerals.
However, it’s important to note that the casserole also contains cream of mushroom soup and fried onions, which can be high in sodium and fat. To make the casserole healthier, consider using reduced-sodium soup, adding fresh vegetables, and limiting the amount of fried onions. Making it from scratch will allow you to control the ingredients.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
- Storing: Leftover Green Bean Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating in Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
- Reheating in Microwave: Place a portion of the casserole on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the casserole dry.
- Freezing: Although not ideal for maintaining texture, you can freeze Green Bean Casserole. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Note: The texture of the beans and topping might change slightly after freezing.
Final Thoughts:
This Green Bean Casserole recipe is a timeless classic that’s perfect for Thanksgiving or any special occasion. Its simplicity and comforting flavors make it a favorite for generations. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a delicious side dish that everyone will love. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy this classic comfort food!
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest
Green Bean Casserole FAQs:
Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can! Blanch 1 pound of fresh green beans until tender-crisp before adding them to the recipe.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole (without the fried onion topping) up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Add the topping just before baking.
Can I use a different type of soup?
Yes, cream of celery or cream of chicken soup are good substitutes for cream of mushroom.
How do I prevent the French fried onions from burning?
Add them during the last 5 minutes of baking or tent the casserole with foil.
Can I add cheese to this recipe?
Absolutely! A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese before baking can add a delicious cheesy twist.