Gather around, food lovers! This green bean casserole recipe is a timeless classic. Research from Campbell’s details the surprising origin of green bean casserole, created in 1955. It is a beloved fixture on holiday tables, and a comforting side dish any time of year. It brings together simple ingredients for a deliciously creamy, savory, and crispy experience. You will love how easy it is to prepare, perfect for busy parents and beginner cooks alike.
Why You’ll Love This Green Bean Casserole
You will adore this classic green bean casserole for several fantastic reasons. It truly makes mealtime effortless and delicious.
- Quick Prep Time: You can have this dish ready for the oven in just 10 minutes.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses readily available pantry staples for maximum convenience.
- Beloved Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed hit with family and friends at any gathering.
- Versatile Side: Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or an easy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Making this easy green bean casserole recipe requires just a handful of straightforward ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating that familiar, comforting flavor you crave.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) Campbell’s Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup (or Unsalted Cream of Mushroom Soup or Cream of Celery Soup)
- 1/2 cup 2% milk
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 4 cups cooked cut green beans. Beyond their taste, green beans offer valuable nutrients, as highlighted by this USDA nutrition fact sheet for green beans.
- 1 1/3 cups French’s French Fried Onions (amount divided in recipe steps below)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Notes & Substitutions
You have flexibility with your ingredients to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.
For green beans, use fresh, frozen, or canned. If using fresh, blanch them until crisp-tender. Frozen beans require thawing and draining. Canned beans need thorough draining to prevent a watery casserole. If using unsalted cream of mushroom soup, slightly increase the soy sauce or add a pinch more salt to balance the flavor. Feel free to use Cream of Celery or Cream of Chicken soup as alternatives for a different twist. Any milk (dairy or non-dairy like almond milk) works, but 2% milk offers the best creaminess without being too heavy.
Equipment
You only need a few basic kitchen tools to make this fantastic green bean casserole.
- 1 1/2-quart casserole dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula or spoon
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to assemble and bake your delicious green bean casserole. This guide ensures a perfect, bubbly, and golden dish every time.
Step 1: Prep the Oven & Mix Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and soy sauce. Stir until well blended and smooth. Add the cooked cut green beans and 2/3 cup of the French fried onions to the soup mixture. Gently fold everything together until the green beans are evenly coated. Season with a pinch of salt and a dash of black pepper to your taste. Pour the entire mixture into your prepared 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
Step 2: Initial Bake
Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes. The mixture should be hot and gently bubbling around the edges. This initial bake ensures the casserole heats through properly and the flavors meld together. Carefully remove the dish from the oven and stir the casserole gently.
Step 3: Add Topping & Final Bake
Evenly sprinkle the remaining 2/3 cup of French fried onions over the top of the hot green bean casserole. Return the dish to the oven for an additional 5 minutes. Watch the onions closely during this final bake. They should turn a beautiful golden brown and become perfectly crispy. This step creates that iconic crunchy topping that defines this classic dish.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Once the onions are golden and crisp, remove the green bean casserole from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to serve and preventing it from being too runny. Serve warm and enjoy your homemade comfort food!
Pro Tips for Success
Achieve the best green bean casserole every time with these helpful hints. Small details can make a big difference in flavor and texture.
- Crisp-Tender Green Beans: Ensure your green beans are not overcooked initially. This prevents them from becoming mushy in the casserole.
- Golden-Brown Fried Onions: For the perfect crunch, keep an eye on the onions during the final bake. They toast quickly, so pull the dish when they are just golden.
- Balance Saltiness: Taste your mixture before baking, especially if using unsalted soup. Adjust the soy sauce or add a pinch of salt if needed.
- Ensure Even Heating: Stirring the casserole after the initial bake helps distribute heat and flavors evenly throughout the dish.
Serving Suggestions, Storage & Make-Ahead
This versatile green bean casserole fits many occasions. Plan ahead or save leftovers with these easy tips.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this warm green bean casserole as a cherished side dish for any holiday feast, such as Thanksgiving or Christmas. It pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, glazed ham, or baked chicken. For everyday meals, offer it alongside meatloaf, pork chops, or a simple roast chicken for comforting family dinners.
Storage
Allow the green bean casserole to cool completely after serving. Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions. Add a few fresh fried onions for crunch if desired.
Make-Ahead Options
You can prepare components of this dish in advance. Cook and drain your green beans the day before. Mix the soup base, milk, and soy sauce, and keep it covered in the fridge. On the day of serving, combine everything (except the final onion topping) in the casserole dish, cover, and refrigerate. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the initial bake time if baking from cold, then proceed with the final onion topping step as directed.
Nutrition Information
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving of this green bean casserole recipe. These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.
| Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 151 |
| Total Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 2mg |
| Sodium | 513mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 14g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 4g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Vitamin D | 0.1mcg |
| Calcium | 52mg |
| Iron | 1mg |
| Potassium | 190mg |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are answers to common questions about making green bean casserole.
- Can I use fresh green beans? Yes, absolutely! Blanch fresh green beans in boiling salted water for 3-5 minutes until crisp-tender, then drain them well before adding to the casserole.
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time? You can assemble the casserole mixture (without the final onion topping) up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then add extra baking time from cold.
- How do I avoid soggy fried onions? Add the remaining French fried onions only for the last 5 minutes of baking. This ensures they get perfectly crisp and golden without becoming soft.
- What other ingredients can I add for variations? Try adding cooked, crumbled bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture for extra flavor.
- Is it possible to make this vegetarian/vegan? For a vegetarian version, ensure your cream of mushroom soup is vegetarian-friendly. For vegan, use a plant-based cream of mushroom soup, dairy-free milk, and vegan fried onions.
Conclusion
This classic green bean casserole truly stands the test of time, delivering comfort and flavor with every spoonful. Its simplicity, delicious taste, and versatility make it a go-to recipe for any occasion, from festive holidays to cozy weeknights. Go ahead and try this easy-to-follow recipe; you are sure to create a memorable dish that everyone will love. Enjoy your next green bean casserole masterpiece!