Green Bean Casserole Recipe

Green Bean Casserole is a timeless side dish that graces many tables during the holiday season, but it's also a fantastic accompaniment to dinners year-round. Combining tender green beans with a rich, creamy mushroom sauce and topped with crispy fried onions, this dish is both comforting and easy to make. Whether you're serving it alongside a roast for Thanksgiving or as a side for a casual family dinner, this Green Bean Casserole Recipe is bound to be a hit.

this Recipe

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What Is Green Bean Casserole?

Green Bean Casserole is a classic American dish that dates back to the 1950s. It was originally created by Dorcas Reilly for Campbell's Soup Company, using simple ingredients like green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and fried onions. The dish is a delightful combination of creamy, savory green beans in a mushroom-based sauce, topped with crispy fried onions that add a perfect crunch to every bite. It’s easy to prepare and packs all the comfort and warmth you’d expect from a holiday favorite.

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Ingredients List for Green Bean Casserole

This recipe requires just a few basic ingredients, most of which you might already have in your pantry:

• Fresh or Frozen Green Beans: 1½ lbs. Fresh green beans give a slightly firmer texture, but frozen can also be used if you're short on time.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: 1 can (10.5 oz). This is the foundation of the creamy sauce. You can use low-sodium or reduced-fat versions if you prefer.
• Milk: ¾ cup. This helps to thin the soup, making a smooth sauce.
• Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon. This adds a savory depth to the casserole.
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, or to taste.
• Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon, for an extra layer of flavor.
• Crispy Fried Onions: 1 can (6 oz), divided. These crunchy onions are essential to the classic green bean casserole and provide that irresistible crispy topping.

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Substitutions and Variations

You can easily tweak this classic recipe to suit your dietary needs or flavor preferences. Here are some substitution ideas:

• Vegetarian/Vegan Version: Use a dairy-free cream of mushroom soup, almond milk or other plant-based milk, and vegan fried onions. Ensure that your soup is labeled vegan-friendly, as many mushroom soups contain dairy.
• Healthier Option: Opt for low-fat cream of mushroom soup and unsweetened almond milk for a lighter version of this dish.
• Gluten-Free: Make sure to use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and gluten-free fried onions.
• Extra Flavor: Add grated cheese (such as sharp cheddar or Parmesan) to the mixture for an even richer, creamier casserole.
• Bacon: For a smoky twist, sprinkle in some cooked, crumbled bacon into the casserole before baking.
• Mushroom Lovers: Sauté fresh mushrooms and add them to the casserole for extra earthiness and texture.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a flawless green bean casserole:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Green Beans:
   • If using fresh green beans, trim the ends and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Blanch them by boiling them in salted water for about 5 minutes, then drain and transfer them to an ice water bath to stop the cooking. Drain again and pat them dry.
   • If using frozen green beans, make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry to remove any excess moisture.
3. Mix the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, black pepper, and garlic powder until well-combined and smooth.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Add the blanched or thawed green beans to the sauce mixture, and stir until the beans are evenly coated.
   • Stir in half of the crispy fried onions into the mixture. This will add some crunch throughout the casserole.
5. Bake the Casserole: Transfer the green bean mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake uncovered for about 25 minutes until the sauce is bubbling and the beans are hot.
6. Add the Crispy Onion Topping: After 25 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven, sprinkle the remaining crispy fried onions on top, and return it to the oven. Bake for another 5-10 minutes until the onions are golden and crispy.
7. Serve: Once the casserole is done, let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this creamy, crunchy, and comforting side dish!

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How to Cook Green Bean Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

For quick reference, here’s a breakdown of the steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Blanch fresh green beans or thaw frozen ones.
3. Mix cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, pepper, and garlic powder in a bowl.
4. Combine the green beans with the sauce and stir in half of the fried onions.
5. Bake for 25 minutes, then top with remaining fried onions and bake for another 5-10 minutes.
6. Serve warm.

This recipe is perfect for a hands-off, easy side dish, making it ideal for busy holiday cooking or casual family dinners.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Blanching Fresh Green Beans: If you're using fresh green beans, don't skip the blanching step! This helps to soften the beans and ensures they cook evenly in the oven.
2. Too Much Liquid: Be careful not to add too much liquid, or your casserole will end up soupy. Stick to the measurements for the milk and cream of mushroom soup to achieve the perfect creamy consistency.
3. Overbaking the Fried Onions: Keep an eye on the crispy fried onions when you add them for the final bake. They can burn quickly, so be sure to bake them just until golden.
4. Not Seasoning Properly: While the cream of mushroom soup and fried onions provide plenty of flavor, don’t forget to add additional seasoning. Taste your sauce and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Green Bean Casserole is a humble dish, but it can still be served in style! Here are some tips to make this classic side dish look its best.

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How to Serve Green Bean Casserole

• Holiday Meals: This casserole is the perfect accompaniment to Thanksgiving turkey, Christmas ham, or roast beef. Serve it alongside other classic sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.
• Casual Dinners: Pair it with weeknight dinners like baked chicken, pork chops, or grilled steaks for a comforting vegetable side.
• Potluck Favorite: Green bean casserole is a crowd-pleaser, making it an excellent option for potlucks. Transfer it to a dish that’s easy to serve from and garnish for added appeal.

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Presentation Ideas for Green Bean Casserole

• Serve in a Beautiful Baking Dish: Bake the casserole in a decorative ceramic dish and bring it straight from the oven to the table for an attractive presentation.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme on top of the casserole will add a pop of color and brighten the dish.
• Serve Individual Portions: Spoon the casserole into small ramekins for individual servings. This is especially nice for formal holiday dinners.

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Green Bean Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make It Ahead: You can prepare the casserole up to a day ahead of time. Simply assemble the green beans and sauce in the baking dish and refrigerate it overnight. When you’re ready to bake, add the fried onion topping and bake as directed.
• Make It Cheesy: For an extra creamy casserole, mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the green bean mixture before baking. You can also sprinkle extra cheese on top before adding the fried onions.
• Adjust to Taste: The recipe calls for basic seasoning, but feel free to tweak it with your favorite herbs and spices, such as thyme, paprika, or even a pinch of nutmeg.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use canned green beans for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can! While fresh or frozen green beans provide better texture, canned green beans are a quick and easy substitute. Be sure to drain and rinse them well before using.

Q: Can I make Green Bean Casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. Prepare the casserole up to the point of adding the fried onions, cover, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Add the fried onions just before baking.

Q: How long do leftovers last?
A: Leftover green bean casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Q: Can I freeze Green Bean Casserole?
A: Yes, but the texture of the green beans may change slightly. If freezing, do so before adding the fried onions. When reheating, add fresh fried onions before baking.

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Conclusion

Green Bean Casserole is a beloved classic that is easy to make and incredibly versatile. Whether you're making it for a holiday feast or a simple family dinner, this recipe delivers a delicious, creamy, and crispy side dish that never goes out of style. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can whip up this comforting dish in no time. Feel free to adjust the recipe to suit your preferences, and enjoy the timeless flavors of this crowd-pleasing casserole!

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