This green bean casserole is a cozy, comforting dish made with fresh green beans, creamy mushroom soup, and crunchy fried onions. It’s perfect for family dinners and holidays!
Honestly, what’s not to love about a dish that combines veggies and a crispy topping? I always make sure there’s enough for second helpings because everyone wants more! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans work best for this dish. If you’re short on time, you can use frozen green beans, but fresh provides a better crunch! Personally, I love the snap of fresh beans in this casserole.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Condensed cream of mushroom soup gives that classic creamy base. If you prefer a healthier option, consider using homemade mushroom soup or a cream of chicken soup instead. It changes the flavor, but that’s OK!
Milk: Whole milk makes it rich, but you can use low-fat or even almond milk for a lighter version. Just note that non-dairy milk might alter the flavor slightly.
Soy Sauce: This adds a depth of flavor. If you need a gluten-free version, use tamari instead! It works just as well.
French Fried Onions: These crispy toppings are a must! If they’re not available, you can use panko breadcrumbs mixed with a little olive oil for a different crunch. Sometimes, I even sprinkle some cheese on top for extra flavor.
How Do I Perfectly Cook Green Beans for Casserole?
The key to great green bean casserole lies in cooking the green beans just right. You want them tender but still with some bite! Here’s how to do it:
- Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil. Salt helps enhance the green beans’ natural flavor.
- Add the trimmed green beans and cook for about 5 minutes. Test one to see if it’s tender-crisp!
- Drain and immediately plunge the beans into a bowl of ice water. This stops the cooking process and keeps them bright green!
This technique ensures they stay firm and delicious in the casserole. You can thank me later for this tip! 😊
How to Make a Delicious Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/3 cups French fried onions (like French’s)
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter (if using fresh mushrooms)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This green bean casserole takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then 30 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need around 40 minutes to have this tasty dish ready to serve! It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for holidays!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the casserole.
2. Cook the Green Beans:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the trimmed green beans and cook until they’re tender-crisp—this should take about 5 minutes. Once done, drain the green beans and set them aside. You want them bright green and slightly crunchy!
3. Prepare the Mushrooms (Optional):
If you’re using mushrooms, grab a skillet and melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for about 5 minutes, until they’re tender and juicy. This step adds extra flavor!
4. Make the Creamy Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper. If you sautéed mushrooms, toss those in too! Mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy.
5. Combine with Green Beans:
Now, it’s time to add the cooked green beans to the creamy mixture. Stir in 2/3 cup of the French fried onions, which will give your casserole that delicious crunch! Mix until everything is coated.
6. Transfer to a Baking Dish:
Take a 9×13 inch baking dish and transfer the mixture into it, spreading everything evenly with a spatula for a nice, even cook.
7. Bake:
Put the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until it’s hot and bubbly. Your kitchen will start smelling amazing!
8. Add the Crunchy Topping:
Once the casserole is bubbling, carefully remove it from the oven. Sprinkle the remaining French fried onions evenly over the top. This is what makes it so special!
9. Finish Baking:
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and crunchy.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
When it’s done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm and watch it disappear! Your friends and family will love this creamy, crunchy green bean casserole!
This classic dish perfectly combines creamy mushroom sauce, tender green beans, and crispy fried onions, making it a hit at any gathering! Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Canned Green Beans Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned green beans, but be sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole. They won’t have the same crunchy texture, but they’ll still be delicious!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Casserole?
Leftover green bean casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it up in the oven or microwave, adding a bit of milk or broth to keep it creamy!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance and assemble everything, then store it in the refrigerator covered for up to a day before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What If I Don’t Have Cream of Mushroom Soup?
No problem! You can substitute it with homemade cream sauce or use cream of chicken soup for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that it will slightly change the taste!
