This Green Bean Casserole is a creamy and comforting dish, perfect for family dinners. With tender green beans, rich mushroom soup, and crispy onion toppings, it’s a crowd-pleaser!
Whenever I make this, the crunchy onions on top disappear first! I like to serve it alongside roasted chicken. It’s easy to whip up and brings back so many happy memories. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are best for this casserole, providing a nice crunch. If fresh isn’t available, frozen green beans can work too. Just avoid canned ones as they might be too soft.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This soup is key for that creamy texture. If you want a healthier version, try making your own with sautéed mushrooms, heavy cream, and broth. Alternatively, use cream of celery soup for a different flavor!
Milk: Any kind of milk will do, but I prefer whole milk for a creamier sauce. If you’re dairy-free, almond or oat milk can be a great substitute.
Soy Sauce: This adds a savory kick. If you’re avoiding soy, try coconut aminos for a similar taste without the allergens.
French Fried Onions: They’re classic for topping. For a healthier twist, you can bake thinly sliced onions in the oven with a sprinkle of oil and seasoning instead of using fried ones.
How Do I Make the Green Beans Perfectly Tender?
To get that ideal balance of tender yet still crunchy green beans, it’s key to blanch them. Here’s how to do it:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add the green beans and cook for about 5 minutes only—this keeps them crisp.
- Immediately drain and rinse the beans in cold water to stop cooking; this is called shocking.
- This helps them retain color and texture for your casserole!
Follow these tips, and your Green Bean Casserole will turn out creamy and satisfying every time!
How to Make a Classic Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 1/2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 (10.5 oz) can 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
Optional Ingredients:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped mushrooms
- 1 tablespoon butter (if sautéing mushrooms)
Time Estimate:
This delightful Green Bean Casserole will take you about 10 minutes to prepare, and then you will need 30 minutes for baking. So, in total, you’ll be looking at about 40 minutes to enjoy this tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and perfectly.
2. Cook the Green Beans:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fresh green beans and let them cook for about 5 minutes until they are tender-crisp. Drain the beans and immediately rinse them in cold water to halt the cooking process. Set them aside for now.
3. Prepare the Casserole Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper. Stir in half of the French fried onions. If you’re using cheese and chopped mushrooms, mix those in as well. You’ll get a creamy and flavorful mix!
4. Combine Everything Together:
Add the cooked green beans to the soup mixture and gently stir until all the beans are evenly coated with the creamy goodness.
5. Transfer to a Casserole Dish:
Pour the green bean mixture into a greased 1 1/2-quart casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. Bake the Casserole:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the casserole to heat through.
7. Add the Crispy Onions:
After 25 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven, and sprinkle the remaining French fried onions evenly over the top. This will give it that crunchy texture we love!
8. Final Bake:
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, until the onions are golden brown.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for a pop of color. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, crispy, and comforting goodness of your homemade Green Bean Casserole!
This classic dish is sure to be a hit at your table, combining tender green beans with a rich and creamy sauce topped off with crispy onions. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans! Just thaw them first and drain any excess water to prevent a watery casserole. Frozen green beans are convenient and may save you some prep time.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add the crispy onions on top before you pop it in the oven to keep them crunchy!
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you’re looking for a substitute, you can make a homemade cream sauce using butter, flour, and broth along with some sautéed mushrooms. Alternatively, cream of celery or chicken soup can be used for a different flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or oven—just add a splash of milk to restore some creaminess if needed!
