Classic Green Bean Casserole Recipe

A Timeless Favorite

Introduction

Green bean casserole is a beloved classic, often gracing holiday tables and family gatherings. This simple yet delicious dish combines tender green beans, creamy mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions for a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re preparing this for Thanksgiving, a potluck, or just a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through how to make the best classic green bean casserole, offer variations to suit different dietary needs, and share tips on how to store leftovers. Plus, we’ll answer common questions to help ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: The creamy, crunchy, and savory combination is a hit at any gathering.
  • Customizable: Easily adapt this dish to be vegetarian, dairy-free, or even a bit more gourmet with simple swaps.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance to save time on busy cooking days.

Ingredients

  • 2 (10.5-ounce) cans cream of mushroom soup (cream of chicken can be used as a substitute)
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 5 (14.5-ounce) cans of green beans, drained
  • 2-3 cups French fried onions (such as French’s)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • 13×9” baking dish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spoon or spatula for mixing
  • Oven

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a 13×9” baking dish, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, black pepper, and drained green beans. Stir until well combined.
  3. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25 minutes.
  4. Add Topping: Remove from the oven, sprinkle French fried onions evenly over the top, and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown.
  5. Serve & Enjoy: Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!

Recipe Tips & Variations

Make It from Scratch

If you prefer to make this dish without canned soup, try a homemade version:

  • Sauté 8 ounces of fresh mushrooms in butter.
  • Add 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
  • Stir in 1 cup of milk and 1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth.
  • Simmer until thickened, then use in place of canned soup.

Make It Healthier

  • Use fresh or frozen green beans instead of canned for a crisper texture.
  • Replace fried onions with toasted breadcrumbs for a lower-fat option.
  • Opt for low-sodium soup to reduce salt content.

Vegetarian & Dairy-Free Options

  • Swap cream of mushroom soup for a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream-based soup.
  • Use plant-based milk instead of dairy.
  • Choose a vegan-friendly fried onion brand or make your own by sautéing onions until crispy.

Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months. Allow to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through or microwave in short intervals, stirring between each.

Food & Drink Pairings

  • Main Dishes: Pairs well with roasted turkey, baked ham, or grilled chicken.
  • Side Dishes: Serve with mashed potatoes, stuffing, or cranberry sauce for a well-rounded meal.
  • Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole (without the fried onions) and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance. Bake as directed, adding the fried onions just before serving.

Can I Use Fresh Green Beans?

Absolutely! Trim and blanch fresh green beans for 3-5 minutes in boiling water, then drain and use in the recipe.

What If I Don’t Have Soy Sauce?

You can substitute with Worcestershire sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a similar depth of flavor.

How Do I Keep the Fried Onions Crispy?

Add the fried onions only in the last few minutes of baking to ensure they stay crunchy.

Conclusion

Classic green bean casserole is a timeless dish that’s easy to prepare and always a hit. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or customize it to suit your preferences, this dish is sure to be a staple at your table.

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