This green bean casserole is a comforting side dish with crunchy onions and creamy goodness. It’s packed with flavorful green beans that everyone loves!
Honestly, who can resist the crispy topping? It always reminds me of family gatherings and hearty meals. I love serving this dish during holidays. So tasty and easy to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans really shine in this casserole. For a quick option, drain some canned green beans; they work well too. If you’re looking to change it up, try using frozen green beans; just thaw and drain before adding.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is the heart of your casserole. If you’re avoiding mushrooms, a cream of celery soup is a great substitute, or try making a homemade version for a fresher taste.
Milk: Regular milk gives your casserole a creamy texture, but you can use almond milk or any other plant-based milk if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. Coconut milk can add a nice flavor twist!
French Fried Onions: These crispy bits add a delicious crunch! If you want to make it healthier, try using crushed whole-grain crackers as a topping or making your own baked onion rings.
How Do I Get My Green Bean Casserole Creamy and Delicious?
Getting the right creamy texture in your casserole comes down to mixing the right ingredients well. Here’s how:
- Start by making sure the cream of mushroom soup is fully blended with the milk and seasonings in a bowl.
- Mix the green beans in gently, so they stay whole. This keeps them crisp and adds a nice texture!
- Use a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish to ensure even baking, and don’t forget the initial 25 minutes of baking to meld those flavors.
Make sure to keep an eye on the final minutes after adding the crispy onions. They can go from golden to burnt quickly! This way, your casserole is creamy, with a delightful crunch on top.
Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups fresh green beans, trimmed and cut in half (or 2 cans of green beans, drained)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping:
- 1 1/3 cups French fried onions (divided)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious green bean casserole takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 35-40 minutes to bake. Total time is approximately 50 minutes, making it a quick and easy side dish perfect for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly and gets that perfect golden brown top.
2. Prepare the Green Beans:
If you’re using fresh green beans, bring a pot of water to a boil. Blanch the green beans for about 5 minutes until they are tender-crisp. After they are done, drain and set them aside. If you’re using canned green beans, simply drain the beans thoroughly and set them aside.
3. Mix the Casserole Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce (if using), and black pepper. Stir the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy. This is where the magic starts!
4. Combine the Green Beans:
Gently fold in the green beans along with 2/3 cup of the French fried onions into the creamy mixture. Make sure everything is coated nicely. This adds both flavor and texture to your casserole.
5. Transfer to Casserole Dish:
Pour the green bean mixture into a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. A neat layer helps everything cook perfectly!
6. Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
7. Add the Crispy Onions:
After 25 minutes, take it out of the oven and sprinkle the remaining French fried onions over the top. This adds an extra crunch and deliciousness!
8. Finish Baking:
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the onions to be golden brown and crispy, but not burnt!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked to perfection, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a minute. Serve warm and savor this classic comforting side dish! It’s sure to be a hit at your table.
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and drain them before mixing them into the casserole. Frozen green beans can save time and still give you that great texture.
How Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly since it uses cream of mushroom soup. Just ensure that your French fried onions are also vegetarian, as some brands may use animal products. Homemade crispy onions are a great alternative too!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add the crispy onion topping before baking. This way, you save time on busy serving days!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal!
