Classic Green Bean Casserole: A Timeless Holiday Favorite

Green Bean Casserole is a beloved dish that graces the tables of holiday dinners, potlucks, and family gatherings across the country. Its comforting blend of tender green beans, creamy mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions makes it a staple that has stood the test of time.

With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, this classic casserole recipe is a go-to for many home cooks who want to serve up something both delicious and nostalgic.

Today, we’ll take you through a slightly enhanced version of this classic recipe—still simple, but with a touch more finesse to elevate the flavor and presentation while staying true to its timeless appeal.

green bean casserole dish

Why Green Bean Casserole is a Holiday Staple

The Green Bean Casserole is more than just a dish; it’s a tradition. Created in the 1950s by Campbell’s Soup Company, this recipe quickly became a favorite due to its use of convenient canned goods, making it accessible to households everywhere.

Over time, it’s become a nostalgic comfort food that evokes memories of family dinners and holiday feasts. Its appeal lies not just in its flavor but in its simplicity, making it a quick side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses.

Ingredients for the Perfect Green Bean Casserole

To maintain the authenticity of this recipe, we’ll stick to the tried-and-true ingredients, with a few tips along the way to ensure the best possible outcome.

IngredientAmount
Canned cut green beans (drained)2 cans (14.5 oz each)
Condensed cream of mushroom soup1 can (10.75 oz)
Milk¾ cup
French-fried onions1 can (6 oz)
Salt and pepperTo taste

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Green Bean Casserole

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures that your casserole cooks evenly, with the creamy mixture bubbling and the onions crisping up to a perfect golden brown.

2. Mix the Base Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained green beans, condensed cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Stir until everything is well-coated and the soup and milk have fully blended into a creamy sauce. If you’re using fresh or frozen green beans, blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes to ensure they soften slightly before baking.

3. Add the First Layer of Fried Onions

Gently fold half of the can of French-fried onions into the green bean mixture. This step ensures that you get that satisfying crunch not just on top but throughout the casserole. The onions will soften slightly as they bake, but still provide texture inside the dish.

4. Season with Salt and Pepper

Add salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind that both the canned beans and mushroom soup may already contain salt. A light touch of seasoning should suffice, allowing the creamy mushroom flavor to shine through.

5. Transfer to a Casserole Dish

Pour the green bean mixture into an ungreased 1½-quart casserole dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure every bite is full of beans, sauce, and onions.

6. Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the mixture is hot and bubbly. This baking time allows the soup and milk to meld into a creamy sauce that coats the green beans.

7. Top with Remaining Fried Onions

After 25 minutes, carefully remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining French-fried onions evenly over the top. This layer will create that signature crunchy topping everyone looks forward to.

8. Return to the Oven for a Final Bake

Place the casserole back in the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning the onions.

9. Serve and Enjoy

Once the casserole is golden and bubbly, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set slightly, making it easier to serve. Pair this savory side dish with turkey, ham, or any main course for a delicious, well-rounded meal.

Tips for the Best Green Bean Casserole

  • Fresh vs. Canned Green Beans: While canned green beans are traditional, you can substitute fresh or frozen green beans if you prefer. Just make sure to blanch fresh green beans for a few minutes in boiling water to soften them before adding them to the casserole.
  • Upgrade Your Mushrooms: For a gourmet twist, try sautéing fresh mushrooms with a little garlic and butter, then mix them into the casserole with the soup. This adds more texture and an earthy depth of flavor to the dish.
  • Cheesy Goodness: If you want to elevate the richness of the casserole, sprinkle in some shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese before baking. The cheese will melt into the sauce and create an even creamier, more indulgent texture.

Storage and Reheating Tips

  • Storing Leftovers: If you have leftovers, cover the casserole dish with foil or transfer the contents to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Reheating: To reheat, simply place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also use the microwave for smaller portions, but the oven will help maintain the crispy texture of the onions.
  • Freezing: Green Bean Casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, prepare the casserole but stop before adding the fried onions on top. When ready to serve, thaw in the fridge overnight, add the onions, and bake as directed.
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