Green Bean Casserole
Green Bean Casserole is a classic comfort dish that’s simple, creamy, and topped with crispy fried onions. It brings together tender green beans and a rich mushroom sauce that’s just…
Tip: save now, cook later.Green Bean Casserole is a classic comfort dish that’s simple, creamy, and topped with crispy fried onions. It brings together tender green beans and a rich mushroom sauce that’s just the right mix of flavorful and cozy. This casserole is one of those dishes that feels like home every time you serve it.
I love making this casserole because it’s easy to put together but always makes people smile. One of my favorite tricks is to use fresh green beans when they’re in season for the best crunch and color, but canned or frozen work just fine if you’re short on time. The crispy onion topping is the best part — it adds that perfect bit of crunch and a little extra flavor that everyone goes back for seconds of.
For me, Green Bean Casserole is the star of holiday dinners or family get-togethers. I usually serve it alongside mashed potatoes and roasted turkey or chicken to make a full, comforting meal. It’s one of those dishes that brings people together around the table, and I always look forward to leftovers the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans give the best crunch and color, but canned or frozen are great shortcuts. Just drain well if canned to avoid sogginess. I like fresh for texture, but frozen works well when pressed for time.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This creates the creamy base. If you want a homemade touch, swap for a quick mushroom sauce using sautéed mushrooms, butter, flour, and milk. For dairy-free, try a coconut cream or cashew cream sauce instead.
French Fried Onions: They add essential crunch and flavor on top. If unavailable, crispy shallots or crushed crispy breadcrumbs mixed with a touch of olive oil can be a nice substitute.
Soy Sauce: Just a splash adds subtle umami depth. Tamari is a good gluten-free substitute, or a little Worcestershire sauce can work in a pinch.
Cheddar Cheese (Optional): This melts into the dish for extra richness. You can leave it out for a classic feel or swap for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of cheeses you prefer.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crispy Onion Topping?
The crispy onion topping is key for texture and flavor. Here’s how to get it right every time:
- Don’t add all onions too early. Mix most into the casserole but save some for the topping to stay crisp.
- Sprinkle evenly on top after baking the casserole until bubbly. This helps the onions crisp up nicely.
- Bake uncovered for the last 5-10 minutes to toast the onions golden brown.
- Watch closely so the onions don’t burn—they toast quickly once browned.
If you want extra crunchy onions, you can also warm them briefly on a dry skillet before sprinkling on top. This step isn’t required but adds a nice boost in crispness.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for blanching fresh green beans quickly and evenly.
- Colander – to drain green beans well and avoid extra moisture in the casserole.
- Mixing bowl – to combine the soup, milk, and seasonings smoothly.
- 1 1/2-quart baking dish – the perfect size for even baking and topping coverage.
- Oven mitts – to safely handle the hot casserole dish when removing from the oven.
- Spoon or spatula – for stirring ingredients and spreading the mixture evenly in the dish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add cooked, crumbled bacon – for a smoky, salty boost that pairs well with green beans.
- Use smoked gouda or Gruyère instead of cheddar – these cheeses melt smoothly and add a mild, nutty flavor.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms – to enhance the earthy mushroom flavor beyond the soup.
- Try fresh thyme or rosemary – a pinch of fresh herbs adds brightness and depth to the creamy base.
How to Make Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces (or 2 cans green beans, drained)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 1/3 cups French fried onions (divided)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra creamy flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 to 35 minutes to bake. In under an hour, you’ll have a warm, creamy casserole topped with crispy onions, perfect for serving right away or bringing to your next gathering.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Green Beans:
If using fresh green beans, bring a large pot of water to boil. Add the green beans and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until they are tender-crisp. Drain them well to remove excess water. For canned green beans, simply drain them thoroughly.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Combine Ingredients:
Add the green beans and 2/3 cup of the French fried onions to the soup mixture. Stir gently to coat all green beans evenly. If you’re using shredded cheddar cheese, add it in now and mix together.
4. Bake the Casserole:
Pour the mixture into a 1 1/2-quart baking dish and spread it out evenly. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
5. Add the Crispy Onion Topping:
Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining French fried onions evenly over the top. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on the onions—they should turn golden brown and crispy, but not burn.
6. Serve:
Take the casserole out of the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps it thicken slightly. Enjoy your creamy, delicious Green Bean Casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Just thaw and drain them well before mixing. You can also briefly blanch frozen green beans to reduce extra moisture and keep them crisp in the casserole.
How Do I Store Leftover Green Bean Casserole?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of milk if the casserole feels dry.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the point before adding the crispy onions. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then add the onions and bake just before serving for the best crunch.
What Can I Use Instead of French Fried Onions?
If you don’t have French fried onions, crispy shallots, toasted breadcrumbs, or even crushed crispy rice cereal can add some crunch. Just add them at the end of baking so they stay crisp.
