The Best Green Bean Casserole
There’s something incredibly heartwarming about the aroma of green bean casserole wafting through the house—creamy, savory, and laced with the unmistakable crunch of crispy fried onions. The golden-brown top, bubbling with anticipation, beckons loved ones to gather ’round the table. This dish beautifully captures the essence of togetherness, making it a staple during the holiday season and family get-togethers. Growing up, my family always included The Best Green Bean Casserole on our Thanksgiving table. The laughter, chatter, and the sheer joy of sharing a delicious meal was something that made each bite even more special.
Table of Contents
If you’ve ever faced the complexities of entertaining during the holidays, this recipe will become your trusty sidekick. As easy as it is flavorful, The Best Green Bean Casserole is an invitation to savor the season. It’s the perfect dish to assemble in a hurry and enjoy while surrounded by those you cherish. I can’t wait for you to whip up this delightful concoction!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: In just about 35 minutes, you can whip this up and have everyone at the table smiling.
- Irresistible Flavor: Each bite combines creaminess with the crunch of fried onions, delivering a heavenly taste experience.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: Layers of green beans topped with a golden, crunchy layer are hard to resist.
- Flexible Serving: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a backyard BBQ, this dish fits right in.
- Diet-Friendly Options: You can easily adapt this to suit gluten-free or dairy-free diets.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz): This is the creamy base that makes your green bean casserole luscious. Look for a high-quality brand for the best flavor. You can substitute with homemade mushroom soup for a fresher taste.
- 3/4 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess and helps blend the soup and beans. If you want a lighter option, almond milk works well too.
- 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce: Just a touch provides a depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste. If you’re seeking a gluten-free version, use tamari instead.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of warmth without overpowering the other ingredients. Freshly cracked black pepper elevates the dish even further.
- 2 cans green beans, drained (14.5 oz each): These are the star of the show! Use high-quality, cut green beans for the best texture. If you prefer fresh, blanching them first is a great option.
- 1 1/2 cup French’s crispy fried onions (divided): These crunchy bits add that satisfying texture and flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own fried onions for a homemade touch.
How to Make The Best Green Bean Casserole
Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. While it warms up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter. This prevents sticking and facilitates easy serving later on.
Combine Soup Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and whole milk until smooth. This creates the rich, creamy base for your casserole. Add the soy sauce and black pepper, stirring until fully incorporated.
Add Green Beans: Gently fold in the drained green beans with a spatula until they are well coated in the creamy mixture. Ensuring even coverage guarantees flavor in every bite—no sad bean left behind!
Incorporate Fried Onions: Fold in 1/2 cup of those crispy fried onions to the green bean mixture. This not only adds flavor, but it also starts building that fabulous crunch we all crave. The onions provide a lovely contrast against the creamy beans.
Bake Casserole: Pour the green bean mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. While it bakes, you’ll enjoy the mouthwatering aroma filling your kitchen, making everyone eager for dinner.
Add Topping: After 30 minutes, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. Give it a gentle stir to reincorporate any ingredients that may have settled. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of crispy fried onions on top, ensuring each inch is covered. This is where the magic happens!
Finish Baking: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and the edges are bubbly. The casserole is ready when the top is beautifully crisp, a visual treat just waiting to be served.
Storing & Reheating
The remaining casserole can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 hours after baking. Any leftover portions should be placed in an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you wish to freeze it, wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn—this will last up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake it at 350 degrees F for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through, but keep in mind that the texture might slightly change, so feel free to refresh with a sprinkle of fresh fried onions on top!
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid mushy beans by not overcooking before adding to the casserole; you want them tender, but still with some firmness.
- Using room temperature ingredients helps ensure a creamier mixture and can aid even heating during baking.
- Make it ahead! You can prepare the casserole the day before and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready.
- To amplify flavor, consider sautéing some garlic or mushrooms to add to the green bean mixture.
- If you like a little cheesy flavor, sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top before adding the crispy onions.
The Best Green Bean Casserole is a delightful way to celebrate gatherings, evoking warmth and connection. Not only does it offer rich flavors, but its simplicity allows for some experimentation, whether you want to add extra veggies or a dash of spice. It’s a canvas for your creativity! So, gather ingredients and make this beloved classic—your taste buds and loved ones will thank you!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer using fresh green beans, blanch them first to soften them slightly before adding them to the casserole. This will give you a vibrant color and fresher flavor without compromising texture.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version of The Best Green Bean Casserole, simply opt for gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and ensure your cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free alternatives, or you can make your own at home!
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Certainly! You can assemble the entire casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This makes it a perfect option for busy holiday meals.
What can I do to add more flavor?
Enhancing flavor can be as simple as adding sautéed garlic, shallots, or even some grated cheese into the mix. Try seasoning with herbs like thyme or rosemary for an unexpected twist!
More Dinner Recipes
- Ina Garten Green Bean Casserole
- Crockpot Taco Casserole
- Classic Meatball Casserole
- Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole
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📖 Recipe Card
The Best Green Bean Casserole
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Experience the savory delight of The Best Green Bean Casserole, a flavorful combination of creamy mushroom soup, green beans, and crispy fried onions. This quick, homemade dish is perfect for busy holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cans green beans, drained (14.5 oz each)
- 1 1/2 cup French's crispy fried onions (divided)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup and whole milk. Stir in soy sauce and black pepper.
- Fold in drained green beans until coated in the mixture.
- Add 1/2 cup of crispy fried onions to the mixture and combine.
- Pour the mixture into the baking dish and bake for 30 minutes.
- Stir mixture gently, then top with remaining crispy fried onions and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until golden.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
For gluten-free, substitute with tamari for soy sauce and use gluten-free soup.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, refreshing with fried onions if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
