Green Bean Casserole
Looking for a dish that screams comfort and brings everyone together at the table? This Green Bean Casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleaser! Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this creamy, crunchy classic is sure to win hearts (and taste buds).
Made with tender green beans, a creamy mushroom sauce, and a crispy topping, this dish is the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Plus, it’s super simple to whip up, even on a busy day. Let’s dive into this timeless recipe!
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe combines everything I adore about comfort food: creamy sauce, perfectly cooked green beans, and that irresistible crispy topping. It’s nostalgic, easy to prepare, and a hit at every gathering. Plus, the flavors are endlessly customizable—making it perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 1 lb (16 oz) fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk (any type)
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 cup fried onions (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It
- Preheat and Prep:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If using fresh green beans, blanch them by boiling in salted water for 3-4 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking. This keeps them vibrant and crisp-tender. If using frozen green beans, simply thaw and drain them.
- Mix the Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy or Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder if using. Stir until smooth. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Casserole:
In a casserole dish, mix the green beans with the prepared sauce until evenly coated. Smooth the top for even cooking.
- Bake and Top:
Bake uncovered for 25 minutes. Remove from the oven, sprinkle the fried onions evenly over the top, and return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the onions are golden and crispy.
- Serve:
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy the creamy, crunchy deliciousness with your favorite main dishes!
Pro Tips
- Fresh or Frozen? Fresh green beans give a firmer texture, while frozen are great for convenience. Just make sure to drain frozen beans thoroughly.
- Homemade Fried Onions: For an extra special touch, slice onions thinly, coat in flour, and fry until golden. They’re a game-changer!
- Make It Your Own: Add shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce for extra creaminess, or mix in sautéed mushrooms for a gourmet twist.
Storage
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Freezer: Freeze the casserole (without the fried onion topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and add the topping just before reheating in the oven.
Tools For This Recipe
- Large pot for blanching (if using fresh green beans)
- Mixing bowl for sauce
- Casserole dish (9×13 works great)
- Spoon or spatula for mixing
This Green Bean Casserole is a must-have for any gathering or family dinner. It’s comforting, easy to make, and full of flavor. Try it out, and don’t forget to share it with your loved ones—it’s guaranteed to become a favorite! 😊