This Green Bean Casserole is a cozy dish made with fresh green beans, creamy soup, and crispy fried onions. It brings a warm feel to any meal, especially during the holidays!
I love how it’s so easy to make—just mix everything, pop it in the oven, and let it bake! Plus, you can’t resist that crunchy onion topping; it really makes the dish pop! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh is best, as they give the casserole a nice crunch. If fresh isn’t available, you can use frozen green beans. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is the creamy base for our casserole. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using a homemade version or swapping it out for cream of celery or cream of chicken soup.
Milk: I use whole milk for richness, but you can use low-fat milk or even plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
French Fried Onions: These are essential for that crispy topping! If you prefer a homemade option, you can fry thinly sliced onions in oil until golden. Just keep an eye on them so they don’t burn.
Cheddar Cheese: This is optional but adds a lovely flavor. If you want a different taste, feel free to use mozzarella or even a dairy-free cheese for a vegan version.
How Do I Cook the Green Beans Perfectly?
Cooking the green beans just right is crucial for the casserole’s texture. Here’s a simple technique to get them crisp-tender:
- Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. This helps the beans keep their bright green color.
- Add the trimmed green beans and cook for about 5 minutes. You want them to be tender but still a little crunchy.
- Immediately transfer the cooked beans to a bowl of ice water. This stops the cooking and ensures they don’t become mushy.
- Drain them well after cooling, as excess water can lead to a watery casserole.
This method will keep the beans vibrant and firm. Happy cooking!
Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 1/2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/3 cups French fried onions, divided
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh rosemary sprig for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Green Bean Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and 30-35 minutes to cook, including baking time. So, in just under an hour, you can have this tasty dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole cooks evenly while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Cook the Green Beans:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the trimmed green beans and cook them for about 5 minutes until they are crisp-tender. After cooking, drain the beans and immediately plunge them into a bowl of ice water. This will stop the cooking process and keep their vibrant color. Drain again and set aside.
3. Mix the Soup Base:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is nice and smooth. This creamy base is what makes the casserole rich and delicious!
4. Combine Ingredients:
Now, add the drained green beans and 2/3 cup of the French fried onions into the soup mixture. If you decided to include the cheddar cheese, gently fold it into the mixture as well. This will add a nice cheesy flavor! Mix everything until combined.
5. Bake the Casserole:
Transfer the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the mixture is hot and bubbling.
6. Add Crunchy Topping:
Once it’s done baking, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining French fried onions evenly on top. This will give it that crispy texture everyone loves. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the onions are golden brown.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, if you’d like, garnish your casserole with a fresh rosemary sprig before serving. This adds a lovely touch and a hint of extra flavor! Serve warm and enjoy your tasty Green Bean Casserole as a comforting side dish!
Delicious green beans in a creamy, flavorful sauce, all topped with crispy onions—what’s not to love? Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead?
Absolutely! Frozen green beans work well in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to remove excess moisture before mixing them into the casserole.
How Can I Make It Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready, allow it to come to room temperature before baking, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time as needed.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy if necessary.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Of course! Feel free to add cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or even a sprinkle of garlic powder for extra flavor. Customize the casserole with your favorite ingredients to make it your own!
