Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Nothing feels more like home than the comforting flavor of a warm, creamy green bean casserole. Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving, a potluck, or a casual Sunday dinner, this green bean casserole recipe brings family and friends together over a timeless classic. It’s the perfect combination of tender green beans, savory mushroom sauce, and crispy fried onions—baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To whip up this crowd-pleasing dish, you’ll only need a handful of easy-to-find ingredients. Here’s what you’ll want to gather:
- Fresh or canned green beans
- Cream of mushroom soup (or a substitute!)
- Milk
- Black pepper
- Fried crispy onions
- Optional: shredded cheese or sautéed mushrooms
Each ingredient plays a special role in making this delicious green bean casserole creamy, crunchy, and irresistible.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now let’s dive into making this classic side dish. From mixing the ingredients to that first warm bite, each step makes it more delightful!
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). You’ll want your oven hot and ready by the time you assemble the casserole.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and black pepper. For added depth, consider mixing in a handful of shredded cheese or sautéed mushrooms.
Step 3: Add Crispy Onions
Fold in about 2/3 of the crispy fried onions—this ensures that crispy texture is baked into every bite while saving the rest for the delicious topping.
Step 4: Bake
Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until hot and bubbling.
Step 5: Top and Finish
Remove the dish, sprinkle the remaining crispy onions on top, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the top is golden brown. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Casserole
For a dish that’s stood the test of time, a few thoughtful tweaks can elevate your green bean casserole from traditional to extraordinary. Here are some helpful tips:
- Use fresh green beans: Blanch them first for the best texture and color.
- Homemade mushroom sauce: Make your own if you’re avoiding canned soup. A white sauce with sautéed mushrooms adds from-scratch flavor.
- Add cheese: Mix in cheddar or Parmesan for a richer taste.
- Don’t forget texture: Crispy onions are key for that delightful crunch!
For more casserole-making techniques, check out our top casserole tips.
This dish pairs beautifully with many other recipes found on our site—from a simple vegetable casserole to complete Thanksgiving menus.
If you’re curious about the history of this American classic, discover more over on its Wikipedia page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make green bean casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and bake it just before serving.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
You can use homemade white sauce or a dairy-free alternative.
Conclusion
Classic green bean casserole continues to be a holiday and weeknight favorite for a reason. It’s flavorful, nostalgic, and incredibly easy to make ahead or customize. Whether you’re sticking with tradition or putting your own spin on it, this casserole is bound to earn a special place at your table.
If you tried this recipe, leave a comment & ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating!