Green Bean Stuffing Casserole Recipe

Combining the hearty flavors of green bean casserole with the savory goodness of stuffing results in the perfect holiday side dish – Green Bean Stuffing Casserole! This dish combines tender green beans, a creamy mushroom sauce, and classic stuffing for a rich, flavorful, and satisfying casserole. Whether you're preparing for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just craving something warm and comforting, this casserole is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Let’s walk through how to create this savory and flavorful dish with a recipe that’s simple to follow and easy to love.

this Recipe

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What is a Green Bean Stuffing Casserole?

Green bean stuffing casserole is a delightful fusion of two beloved comfort dishes – the classic green bean casserole and stuffing. It takes the creamy, savory elements of green bean casserole (green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy onions) and layers them with flavorful stuffing for extra heartiness. It’s the perfect side dish for a holiday spread or a cozy family dinner, adding texture, flavor, and variety to your meal.

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Ingredients List for Green Bean Stuffing Casserole

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this mouthwatering casserole:

• Green beans: 1 ½ lbs fresh (trimmed) or about 4 cups frozen/canned (drained)
• Cream of mushroom soup: 1 can (10.5 oz)
• Milk: ½ cup (whole milk or 2% works best)
• Stuffing mix: 1 package (6 oz) of your favorite stuffing (herb-seasoned or cornbread both work well)
• Butter: ¼ cup (melted) to mix with the stuffing
• Fried onions: 1 cup (divided into ½ cup for mixing and ½ cup for topping)
• Shredded cheddar cheese (optional): 1 cup for a cheesy version
• Chicken or vegetable broth: 1 cup (for preparing the stuffing)
• Garlic powder: ¼ teaspoon (optional, for added flavor)
• Ground black pepper: ¼ tsp
• Soy sauce: 1 teaspoon (optional for added depth)

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Ingredient List for Variations

Feel free to adjust the recipe based on your preferences or what ingredients you have on hand. Here are some variations you can try:

• Mushrooms: Add fresh sautéed mushrooms for extra texture and umami flavor.
• Sautéed onions: Use caramelized onions instead of fried onions for a homemade touch.
• Crispy bacon: Add cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky flavor.
• Parmesan cheese: Sprinkle parmesan on top for an extra savory kick.
• Cornbread stuffing: Use cornbread stuffing mix for a slightly sweet and flavorful variation.
• French green beans: Opt for thin, tender haricots verts for a more elegant twist.

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Substitutions and Variations

This green bean stuffing casserole can easily be modified to suit various diets or personal preferences. Here are some popular substitutions and variations:

• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free stuffing mix and gluten-free cream of mushroom soup. Many stores now carry gluten-free fried onions as well, or you can substitute them with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Vegan Option: Substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk (like almond or oat), and opt for vegan butter in the stuffing mix. Vegan fried onions are typically available in stores, or you can make your own.
• Homemade Mushroom Sauce: If you want to skip the canned soup, make your own sauce by sautéing mushrooms in butter, adding flour for a roux, and gradually stirring in vegetable or chicken broth and milk (or cream) until thickened.
• Stuffing Variations: You can experiment with different types of stuffing, like cornbread stuffing or sausage stuffing, to add new flavors and textures.
• Extra Veggies: Feel free to throw in extra vegetables, such as diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers, to add color and flavor to the casserole.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create a perfectly balanced and delicious green bean stuffing casserole:

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to heat while you prepare the casserole.
2. Prepare the green beans:
   • If using fresh green beans, trim the ends and blanch them in boiling water for about 3-4 minutes, then immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to preserve their color and texture.
   • If using frozen green beans, simply thaw them in advance. For canned green beans, drain and rinse them before using.
3. Prepare the stuffing:
   • In a separate bowl, prepare the stuffing mix according to the package instructions. This usually involves combining the dry stuffing with hot broth and melted butter, then letting it sit for a few minutes to absorb the liquid.
4. Mix the casserole filling:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, black pepper, garlic powder, and ½ cup of fried onions. Add shredded cheddar cheese if you're opting for the cheesy version. Stir everything together until well combined.
5. Assemble the casserole:
   • In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spread half of the stuffing mixture on the bottom. Then, pour the green bean mixture over the stuffing. Top with the remaining stuffing, spreading it evenly across the surface.
6. Bake the casserole:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and heated through.
7. Add the finishing touches:
   • In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of fried onions over the top of the casserole. This will give it that crispy golden finish.
8. Cool and serve:
   • Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly.

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

Cooking this comforting dish is quite simple, but a few pro tips can help you perfect it:

1. Blanching the Beans: If you're using fresh beans, don't skip blanching. Boil them for 3-4 minutes and immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking. This ensures your beans stay tender-crisp and bright green.
2. Stuffing Consistency: If you like a moist stuffing layer, you can add a little more broth or milk to the mixture. For a crisper top layer, use less liquid and fluff the stuffing before layering it on the casserole.
3. Timing Your Toppings: Add the fried onions in the last 5 minutes of baking for optimal crispiness. Adding them too early can result in soggy onions.
4. Balancing Flavors: Don’t forget to taste the green bean mixture before assembling. If you like a little extra seasoning, feel free to add more black pepper, garlic powder, or a splash of soy sauce for umami depth.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this dish is simple, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Green Beans: Whether you're using fresh, frozen, or canned green beans, be sure not to overcook them. Overcooked beans will lose their texture and become mushy in the casserole.
• Dry Stuffing: If your stuffing mix feels too dry, add a little extra broth or milk before layering it into the casserole. You want it to be moist but not soupy.
• Burnt Fried Onions: Be sure to add the fried onions at the right time. Baking them for too long can result in burnt, bitter-tasting onions. Always add them in the last 5 minutes of baking.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

The green bean stuffing casserole is the perfect cozy side dish, and with a few presentation tips, you can make it look as good as it tastes.

How to Serve Green Bean Stuffing Casserole

• Serve the casserole family-style, straight from the baking dish. It’s easy, convenient, and keeps the dish warm at the table.
• For individual servings, use a large spoon to scoop the casserole onto plates. You can add a sprig of fresh herbs like thyme or parsley on each serving for a pop of color and flavor.

Presentation Ideas for Green Bean Stuffing Casserole

• Use a decorative baking dish or a cast-iron skillet for a rustic look. If you're serving this casserole for a holiday meal, a ceramic dish in festive colors can add a touch of elegance.
• To add color and texture to the top, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme just before serving. This gives the casserole a fresh, vibrant appearance.

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Green Bean Stuffing Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just wait to add the fried onions until you're ready to bake it.
• Freeze for Later: If you want to make this casserole ahead of time, it freezes well. Prepare it without the fried onions, freeze it, then thaw and bake when needed. Add the onions just before baking for that signature crunch.
• Double the Recipe for a Crowd: This dish is easy to scale up if you're serving a large group. Simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish or two smaller ones.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use canned green beans?
A: Yes, canned green beans are a convenient option. Just be sure to drain and rinse them before using to avoid excess salt and liquid.

Q: Can I make green bean stuffing casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. Add the fried onions just before baking to keep them crispy.

Q: What’s the best type of stuffing mix to use?
A: Any stuffing mix will work, but herb-seasoned or cornbread stuffing mixes pair especially well with green beans and mushroom sauce.

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Conclusion

Green bean stuffing casserole is a delicious combination of two beloved dishes – green bean casserole and stuffing. With its creamy green bean base and crispy stuffing topping, this casserole is the perfect addition to any holiday spread or cozy family dinner. By following our step-by-step instructions, you’ll have a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s sure to impress your guests. Don’t be afraid to add your own variations and touches – this recipe is incredibly versatile and easy to customize. Try this comforting casserole, and enjoy the perfect blend of two classic dishes!

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