Traditional Green Bean Casserole Recipe

The Traditional Green Bean Casserole is a classic, timeless dish that’s a must-have at many holiday gatherings, particularly Thanksgiving and Christmas. With a creamy mushroom sauce, tender green beans, and a crunchy topping of crispy fried onions, it’s no wonder this casserole has been a favorite since the 1950s. This easy-to-make dish requires just a few simple ingredients, yet it delivers comforting, savory flavors that make it a crowd-pleaser every time.

this Recipe

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What Is Traditional Green Bean Casserole?

Traditional Green Bean Casserole is a simple but delicious side dish that features tender green beans coated in a creamy, savory mushroom sauce, typically made with cream of mushroom soup. It's then topped with crispy fried onions, which add texture and flavor. Originally created by Campbell's Soup Company in the 1950s, this casserole has become a go-to dish for Thanksgiving dinners and other special occasions. The best part? It's incredibly easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients.

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Ingredients List for Traditional Green Bean Casserole

Here’s a simple ingredient list for the classic version of this dish:

• Fresh, Frozen, or Canned Green Beans: 1½ lbs of fresh or frozen green beans, or 3 cans (14.5 oz each) of cut green beans, drained.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: 1 can (10.5 oz) – the traditional choice, but you can use low-sodium or reduced-fat versions if desired.
• Milk: ¾ cup to thin the soup and make the sauce creamy.
• Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon, to enhance the savory flavor of the casserole.
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, or to taste.
• Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon (optional) to add a little extra flavor.
• Crispy Fried Onions: 1 can (6 oz), divided – half for mixing in, and half for the crispy topping.

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Substitutions and Variations

This dish is easy to customize to suit different tastes and dietary needs:

• Fresh vs. Canned Green Beans: While the traditional recipe often uses canned green beans, you can substitute fresh or frozen for a crisper texture. Blanch fresh green beans for about 5 minutes before using.
• Vegan Version: Use a plant-based cream of mushroom soup, almond or soy milk, and vegan-friendly fried onions to make this casserole vegan.
• Cheesy Twist: Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the green bean mixture before baking for an extra layer of creaminess and flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and gluten-free fried onions.
• Different Toppings: Mix in or top the casserole with panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, or even cooked bacon for added flavor and crunch.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make the Traditional Green Bean Casserole:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Green Beans:
   • If using fresh green beans, wash and trim the ends, then blanch them in boiling salted water for about 5 minutes. Drain the beans and transfer them to an ice water bath to stop the cooking process. Drain again and set aside.
   • If using frozen green beans, thaw and pat them dry.
   • If using canned green beans, simply drain them well and set aside.
3. Mix the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Add the green beans to the sauce and stir until the beans are fully coated.
   • Stir in half of the crispy fried onions into the mixture for some crunch throughout the casserole.
5. Bake the Casserole: Pour the green bean mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake the casserole, uncovered, for 25 minutes, until the mixture is bubbly.
6. Add the Crispy Topping: Remove the casserole from the oven, and sprinkle the remaining crispy fried onions on top. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the onions are golden and crispy.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Once the casserole is finished baking, let it cool slightly before serving. It’s best served hot and fresh from the oven!

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

Here’s a quick recap of the steps to making this classic casserole:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare green beans (blanch fresh, thaw frozen, or drain canned).
3. Mix cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Combine the green beans with the sauce and stir in half the crispy onions.
5. Bake for 25 minutes until bubbly.
6. Top with remaining crispy onions and bake for 5-10 more minutes.
7. Serve warm.

This recipe takes minimal prep but delivers maximum flavor, making it perfect for holiday dinners or casual weeknight meals.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Draining Canned Green Beans: If using canned green beans, be sure to drain them well, or the casserole will become watery.
2. Overcooking Fresh Green Beans: When using fresh green beans, don’t overcook them in the blanching step. They should be bright green and slightly tender but still crisp.
3. Burning the Fried Onions: Keep an eye on the fried onions when adding them for the final bake. They can burn quickly, so only bake them until they turn golden brown.
4. Too Much Liquid: Be careful not to add too much milk, or the casserole may become too soupy. Stick to the recommended amount for a creamy, but not overly liquid, sauce.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

While Green Bean Casserole is a simple dish, you can still make it look impressive on the table with these tips.

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How to Serve Traditional Green Bean Casserole

• Holiday Side Dish: This casserole pairs perfectly with roasted turkey, ham, or prime rib during holiday meals. Serve it alongside mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce for a well-rounded meal.
• Weeknight Dinner: Pair this casserole with simple main dishes like roasted chicken or pork chops for an easy, comforting weeknight meal.
• Potluck Favorite: Since it’s easy to make in large quantities, Green Bean Casserole is an excellent choice for potlucks or buffets. Serve it straight from the baking dish for easy serving.

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Presentation Ideas for Traditional Green Bean Casserole

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme over the top of the casserole adds a touch of color and brightness to the dish.
• Serve in a Pretty Baking Dish: Bake the casserole in a decorative ceramic or glass dish for an elegant presentation.
• Individual Portions: For a formal dinner, consider baking the casserole in individual ramekins for a personalized, sophisticated touch.

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Traditional Green Bean Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Simply assemble the green beans and sauce, but hold off on the fried onion topping until just before baking. Cover and refrigerate, then bake as directed when ready.
• Add a Cheesy Twist: For extra indulgence, mix 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the casserole before baking. You can also sprinkle some cheese on top before adding the fried onions.
• Extra Crunch: For added texture, mix in some toasted almonds or panko breadcrumbs with the fried onions for a crunchier topping.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use canned green beans in this recipe?
A: Yes, canned green beans are commonly used in this recipe. Just make sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole (without the fried onion topping) up to 24 hours in advance. When ready to serve, bake the casserole, add the onions, and finish baking.

Q: How long do leftovers last?
A: Leftover green bean casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Q: Can I freeze Green Bean Casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze the casserole (without the fried onion topping) for up to 2 months. When reheating, add fresh fried onions before serving for the best texture.

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Conclusion

The Traditional Green Bean Casserole is a beloved holiday classic for good reason—it's easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and delivers delicious, comforting flavors that everyone loves. Whether you're serving it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a casual family dinner, this dish will always be a hit. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite toppings and variations. Enjoy this comforting, creamy, and crunchy side dish any time of the year!

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