Green Bean Casserole
Green Bean Casserole is a classic comfort dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s made with tender green beans, a creamy mushroom sauce, and topped with…
By Ashley
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Reading time: 6 min
Green Bean Casserole is a classic comfort dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s made with tender green beans, a creamy mushroom sauce, and topped with crispy fried onions that add the perfect crunch. This casserole is a holiday favorite but really shines anytime you want a simple, tasty side.
I always love how easy it is to pull together but still tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. The creamy mushroom sauce has just the right balance, and those crispy onions on top make every bite special. I find myself sneaking spoonfuls before it even hits the table—it’s that good!
My favorite way to serve Green Bean Casserole is alongside turkey or roast chicken, especially during family dinners. It’s one of those dishes that everyone seems to love, no matter their age. Whenever I make this casserole, it sparks happy memories and gets folks chatting and smiling at the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans give the best texture and flavor, but canned can work in a pinch. If using fresh, blanching helps keep them tender yet crisp. Frozen green beans can also be a good substitute.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This canned soup is the base for the creamy sauce. If you want homemade, you can make a simple mushroom sauce with butter, mushrooms, flour, and milk for a fresher taste.
Crispy Fried Onions: These add the signature crunch on top. Store-bought ones are easy, but making your own by thinly slicing onions and frying or baking them is rewarding and delicious.
Soy Sauce: Optional but adds a nice umami depth. Feel free to skip it if you’re avoiding soy or salt. A splash of Worcestershire sauce can also work well.
Cheddar Cheese: I like adding cheddar for a richer, slightly tangy flavor. It’s totally optional, so skip or swap it for Parmesan or Gruyère if you want a different twist.
How Do You Get the Green Beans Tender but Not Mushy?
Blanching fresh green beans is key. Here’s how I do it:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the trimmed green beans and cook for 4-5 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender.
- Drain the beans and immediately rinse them under cold water or place in an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
- This keeps them crisp-tender, perfect for baking without turning mushy.
If you use canned beans, just drain them well to avoid extra moisture in the casserole.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – perfect for blanching fresh green beans quickly and evenly.
- Colander – you’ll need this to drain and cool the beans after blanching.
- Mixing bowl – to combine the soup, milk, and seasonings smoothly.
- 1.5-quart casserole dish – just the right size to bake the casserole evenly.
- Oven mitts – to safely handle the hot casserole dish when taking it out of the oven.
- Spoon or spatula – helps spread the mixture and sprinkle fried onions evenly on top.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky, savory twist that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Mix in sliced mushrooms for extra earthiness and to boost the mushroom flavor.
- Swap cheddar for Swiss or Gruyère cheese for a nuttier flavor that melts nicely.
- Try adding toasted almonds or crispy breadcrumbs on top instead of fried onions for a different crunch and texture.
How to Make Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces (or 2 cans French-style green beans, drained)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp soy sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 ⅓ cups crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra richness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to bake. If using fresh green beans, add about 5 minutes for blanching. Altogether, you’ll have a delicious casserole ready in roughly 40-45 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Green Beans:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If using fresh green beans, bring a pot of boiling water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 4-5 minutes until just tender but still crisp. Drain them, then rinse under cold water to stop the cooking. If using canned green beans, simply drain them well.
2. Mix the Creamy Sauce:
In a large bowl, stir together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce (if using), and black pepper until smooth. Add the green beans and, if you like, the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything until the beans are well coated.
3. Bake and Finish:
Pour the mixture into a 1.5-quart casserole dish and spread it evenly. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Take it out, sprinkle crispy fried onions evenly over the top, and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the onions are golden and crispy. Let it cool a few minutes before serving.
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead of Fresh or Canned?
Yes! Just thaw the frozen green beans and drain any excess water before mixing them with the sauce. You can also blanch them quickly in boiling water if you want to refresh their texture.
How Should I Store Leftover Green Bean Casserole?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of milk if the sauce seems too thick.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the point before adding the fried onions. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then add the onions and bake just before serving to keep them crispy.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Mushroom Soup?
You can make a simple homemade mushroom sauce using butter, flour, milk, and sautéed mushrooms for a fresher taste. Alternatively, cream of celery or cream of chicken soups work well as substitutes.