If you’re looking for a tried-and-true side dish for holiday gatherings or just a cozy family meal, this Classic Green Bean Casserole Recipe is the answer. Creamy, crunchy, and full of flavor, it’s a staple that has graced dinner tables for generations. Whether you're an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this simple recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Follow the steps below for a dish that’s guaranteed to please. Make sure to read the full article for tips, tricks, and FAQs to perfect this comforting classic!
What is a Classic Green Bean Casserole?
The Classic Green Bean Casserole is a popular American dish often served as a side during holiday meals, especially Thanksgiving. It's a savory casserole featuring green beans in a creamy mushroom sauce, typically topped with crispy fried onions for added crunch. This dish was originally created by Campbell's in the 1950s and has since become a quintessential comfort food. The combination of tender green beans, creamy sauce, and crispy toppings makes it a beloved option for any gathering.
Ingredients List for Classic Green Bean Casserole
Let’s start with the essential ingredients needed to create the Classic Green Bean Casserole. These are straightforward items you can find at any grocery store, and they come together to make a wonderfully flavorful dish.
- 4 cups fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-size pieces: Fresh green beans give this casserole a crisp-tender texture. You can also use canned or frozen beans if you prefer.
- 10.5 oz. can of cream of mushroom soup: This is the base of the sauce. It gives the dish that classic creamy texture and flavor.
- ½ cup milk: Milk helps to thin out the soup and make the sauce smooth and rich.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: This adds a subtle depth of flavor, giving the casserole a slight tang and savory umami element.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: For seasoning and a touch of spice. You can adjust the pepper based on your spice preference.
- 1⅔ cups crispy fried onion strings, divided: These are used both in the casserole and as a crunchy topping. You can use store-bought or homemade fried onions.
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Cheese adds an extra layer of richness and flavor to the casserole.
Substitutions and Variations
The beauty of a Classic Green Bean Casserole lies in its flexibility. If you need to tweak the recipe based on dietary needs or ingredient availability, here are some easy substitutions and variations you can try:
- Green Beans: If you don’t have fresh green beans, you can substitute canned or frozen green beans. If using canned, make sure to drain and rinse them first. Frozen green beans should be thawed before adding to the recipe.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: If you’re not a fan of mushrooms or need a dairy-free option, you can use cream of celery or cream of chicken soup. For a homemade option, make a roux with butter, flour, and milk or broth to create a creamy sauce from scratch.
- Milk: Substitute almond milk, soy milk, or any non-dairy milk if you're looking for a lactose-free option. Full-fat cream can also be used for a richer texture.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Soy sauce or tamari works well as a gluten-free alternative. You could also try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangier flavor.
- Cheddar Cheese: If you don’t have cheddar, try using Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or Parmesan. For a spicier kick, pepper jack cheese works well.
- Crispy Fried Onions: If you’re out of fried onions, you can top the casserole with breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter or even crushed Ritz crackers for a different kind of crunch.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Here’s a breakdown of how to make this Classic Green Bean Casserole from start to finish. The steps are easy to follow, and with a little preparation, you’ll have a warm, delicious casserole in no time.

- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C): Ensure your oven is fully preheated so the casserole cooks evenly.
- Prepare the green beans: If you’re using fresh green beans, wash them, trim the ends, and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Boil the green beans in salted water for about 5 minutes, then drain and set aside. If using canned or frozen beans, skip this step.
- Mix the sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Assemble the casserole: Add the green beans to the bowl with the sauce mixture and stir to coat the beans evenly. Stir in half of the crispy fried onions and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Transfer to a baking dish: Pour the mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish or an oven-safe casserole dish.
- Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly.
- Add the toppings: After 25 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining cheese and crispy fried onions over the top. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the onions are golden brown.
- Let it rest: Once fully baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving.
How to Cook Classic Green Bean Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking this delicious Classic Green Bean Casserole is a simple and straightforward process. The key is to prepare all your ingredients beforehand, which will make assembling the casserole quick and easy. Follow the steps below for the perfect result every time:
- Boil Fresh Green Beans: Begin by boiling the fresh green beans in salted water for just 4-5 minutes to maintain their vibrant color and slightly crisp texture. Once done, drain the beans and set them aside.
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper until fully combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir the cooked green beans into the sauce mixture. Then add half of the crispy fried onions and half of the shredded cheddar cheese to give the casserole layers of flavor.
- Bake the Casserole: Transfer the green bean mixture to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes until the sauce is bubbling.
- Finish with Crispy Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining onions and cheese over the casserole and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes. This will give the casserole a delightful, crunchy topping.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with simple recipes like this one, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final outcome. Here are some pitfalls to avoid when making your Classic Green Bean Casserole:
- Overcooking the Green Beans: If you boil the green beans for too long, they may become mushy in the final dish. Aim to cook them until they’re tender-crisp.
- Not Seasoning the Sauce: The cream of mushroom soup can be a bit bland on its own, so don’t forget to season the sauce with pepper and Worcestershire sauce for added flavor.
- Using Too Much Cheese: While cheese is delicious, overloading the casserole with cheese can make it overly rich and heavy. Stick to the recommended amount for a balanced flavor.
- Skipping the Crispy Topping: The fried onion topping is an essential part of the texture contrast in this dish. Don’t skip it, and ensure it gets golden and crispy for the best result.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Your Classic Green Bean Casserole will shine not just in flavor but in presentation if done right. Here are some ways to serve and present this comforting dish:
How to Serve Classic Green Bean Casserole
- As a Side Dish: This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, chicken, ham, or pork chops. Serve it alongside mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce for a complete holiday meal.
- With a Salad: For a lighter option, serve the casserole with a fresh green salad. The crispness of the salad will complement the rich, creamy casserole.
Presentation Ideas for Classic Green Bean Casserole
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve in an Oven-to-Table Dish: Use a beautiful casserole dish that can go straight from the oven to the dining table, minimizing the need for extra serving plates.
Classic Green Bean Casserole Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble everything except the fried onion topping, cover, and refrigerate. Add the onions and bake just before serving.
- Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. This will help retain the crispness of the fried onions.
- Doubling the Recipe: Need to feed a crowd? This recipe easily doubles. Just make sure to use a larger baking dish, and you may need to adjust the baking time slightly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use canned green beans for this recipe?
Yes, canned green beans can be used. Be sure to drain and rinse them before adding to the casserole to avoid excess moisture.
How long does green bean casserole last in the fridge?
The casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze green bean casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole, but the crispy onion topping may lose its crunch. For best results, freeze the casserole without the onion topping, then add it fresh before reheating.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, ensure the soup you use is vegetarian-friendly, and omit Worcestershire sauce or replace it with a vegetarian alternative.
Conclusion
The Classic Green Bean Casserole is a perfect addition to your dinner table, whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just enjoying a comforting meal with family. With its creamy texture, crunchy onion topping, and rich flavors, this dish will have your guests asking for seconds. Now that you know the recipe and some useful tips, you’re ready to prepare this iconic casserole with confidence!
PrintClassic Green Bean Casserole Recipe
This Classic Green Bean Casserole recipe features fresh green beans combined with cream of mushroom soup, sharp cheddar cheese, and Worcestershire sauce for added depth. Topped with crispy fried onion strings, this comforting dish is perfect for holiday dinners or any family meal.
Keywords: Classic Green Bean Casserole, green bean casserole recipe, crispy onions, creamy mushroom soup, Thanksgiving side dish
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-size pieces
- 10.5 oz. can cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 ⅔ cups crispy fried onion strings, divided
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Blanch the green beans in boiling water for 3-4 minutes until tender but crisp, then drain.
- In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper.
- Add the blanched green beans and ⅔ cup of crispy fried onion strings, stirring to combine.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and transfer the mixture to a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Bake for 25 minutes, then top with the remaining fried onions.
- Return to the oven for another 5-10 minutes, until the onions are golden brown.
- Serve hot.
Notes
For added flavor, you can use sautéed fresh mushrooms in place of the canned mushroom soup. Adjust the seasoning as needed, and add garlic or herbs for an extra savory touch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. ⅙ of recipe)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
Leave a Reply