Green bean casserole is a classic comfort food and a staple at many holiday dinners. Whether you're preparing for a festive Thanksgiving feast or just looking for a simple side dish, this recipe is a go-to option. Made with just a few ingredients, this green bean casserole combines creamy, savory flavors with a delightful crunch, making it both irresistible and easy to prepare. Let's dive into the details of this easy green bean casserole recipe that your family will love!
What is a “Green Bean Casserole”?
A green bean casserole is a popular American dish made primarily with green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy French-fried onions. It's often served as a side dish during special occasions like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other family gatherings. The dish is known for its simplicity and its combination of rich, creamy textures with a crunchy topping. The cream of mushroom soup adds a savory, earthy flavor to the green beans, while the French-fried onions provide a satisfying crisp. This casserole is the perfect complement to a holiday meal but is easy enough to be enjoyed any time of the year.
Ingredients List for Green Bean Casserole
For this easy and delicious casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 24 oz frozen green beans – Frozen green beans are convenient and taste just as fresh. You can also use fresh green beans, but they’ll need to be cooked beforehand.
- 2 cans of cream of mushroom soup – The backbone of the casserole, the cream of mushroom soup provides creaminess and flavor. You can opt for low-sodium or low-fat versions if desired.
- ½ cup of milk – Milk helps to thin out the soup mixture, making it the perfect consistency for coating the green beans.
- ½ teaspoon of salt – Adds flavor and balances the richness of the soup.
- ½ teaspoon of pepper – A must for seasoning to bring out the flavors of the casserole.
- 6 oz can of French-fried onions – These give the casserole its signature crispy topping. You can add them both inside the casserole and on top for an extra crunch.
Ingredient List Breakdown
- Green Beans: Frozen green beans are perfect for this recipe, as they don't need to be trimmed or pre-cooked. They hold up well in the casserole without turning mushy. However, if you prefer fresh green beans, you'll need to blanch them for a few minutes until they're tender-crisp.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is the key to the creaminess of the casserole. If you're not a fan of mushrooms, feel free to swap this with cream of chicken or even cream of celery soup. Both will work well and add their own unique flavor to the dish.
- Milk: Milk helps to create a creamier texture in the casserole. For a richer flavor, you can substitute with half-and-half or heavy cream. However, if you want to keep it on the lighter side, you can use a plant-based milk alternative, such as almond or soy milk.
- Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the overall flavor of the casserole.
- French-fried Onions: These crispy onions are what set this dish apart! They add a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy base. While the traditional recipe calls for French-fried onions, you can get creative with alternatives or additions (like toasted breadcrumbs or crispy shallots) to make the dish your own.
Substitutions and Variations
- Mushroom Soup Substitution: If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can easily swap the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup. Both will lend a creamy texture while offering different flavor profiles.
- Vegetarian Option: To make this dish vegetarian, simply ensure the cream of mushroom soup you’re using is vegetarian-friendly. Some store-bought versions may contain chicken broth, so be sure to check the label.
- Healthier Options: To cut down on fat, you can use reduced-fat or low-sodium cream of mushroom soup. Additionally, instead of using full-fat milk, you can opt for skim milk or a plant-based milk alternative. To make the dish even lighter, reduce the amount of French-fried onions or substitute with toasted breadcrumbs.
- Gluten-Free Option: For those who need a gluten-free alternative, swap out the French-fried onions with a gluten-free version, and make sure the cream of mushroom soup you use is certified gluten-free.
- Extra Toppings: While the French-fried onions are a classic topping, you can add other ingredients for extra texture and flavor. Some great additions include shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, or toasted breadcrumbs.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that you’ve gathered all the ingredients, let’s move on to the cooking process. This casserole is incredibly simple to prepare, so even beginner cooks can master it.

- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole bakes evenly.
- Prepare the Green Beans: If using frozen green beans, allow them to thaw slightly before using. If you’re using fresh green beans, blanch them in boiling water for about 3-5 minutes, then transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain well.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is evenly combined.
- Add Some Crunch: Stir in about half of the French-fried onions into the green bean mixture. This adds a bit of crunch to the casserole's interior.
- Transfer to a Baking Dish: Pour the green bean mixture into a lightly greased 9x13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and heated through.
- Top with Onions: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining French-fried onions over the top.
- Bake Again: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the onions are golden and crispy.
- Serve Hot: Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Cook Green Bean Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare green beans (blanch if fresh or thaw if frozen).
- Combine ingredients (green beans, soup, milk, salt, pepper, and onions).
- Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Top with remaining onions and bake for another 5-10 minutes.
- Serve and enjoy!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Green Beans: If you're using fresh green beans, avoid overcooking them during the blanching process. They should be tender but still crisp.
- Forgetting the Seasoning: Green beans and cream of mushroom soup can be bland on their own. Don’t forget to season your casserole with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Skipping the Crunch: The French-fried onions are a must for texture. Be sure to include them both inside the casserole and on top for the best results.
Serving and Presentation Tips
When it comes to serving green bean casserole, it’s all about balancing textures and flavors. This dish pairs wonderfully with other traditional holiday sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.
How to Serve Green Bean Casserole
Serve green bean casserole as a side dish alongside roasted meats such as turkey, chicken, or ham. It also works well with vegetarian mains, making it a versatile addition to any table. Make sure to serve it hot so that the creamy interior and crunchy topping shine.
Presentation Ideas for Green Bean Casserole
For a polished presentation, consider serving the casserole in an oven-safe ceramic dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or rosemary for a pop of color. You can also serve individual portions in ramekins for a more formal dinner setting.
Green Bean Casserole Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just wait to add the final topping of onions until the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Storing Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use fresh green beans instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh green beans, but you’ll need to blanch them first.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and bake it when you’re ready.
3. What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
You can substitute it with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup.
4. Can I freeze green bean casserole?
Yes, but for best results, freeze it before baking and add the onions just before reheating.
5. How do I make the casserole gluten-free?
Use gluten-free French-fried onions and a gluten-free version of cream of mushroom soup.
Conclusion
This easy green bean casserole is the perfect side dish for any occasion, blending creamy textures with a crispy topping that’s simply irresistible. It’s quick to assemble, requires only a handful of ingredients, and can be easily customized to suit your preferences. Whether you’re making it for a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite. Give it a try, and enjoy the delicious comfort that this dish brings!
PrintEasy Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Try this easy green bean casserole recipe with frozen green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and French fried onions. Perfect for holiday meals or weeknight dinners. Simple and delicious!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 24 oz frozen green beans
- 2 cans of cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- 6 oz can of French fried onions
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Add frozen green beans to the mixture and stir until evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove from oven, top with French fried onions, and bake for another 5-10 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute fresh green beans for frozen, but they should be pre-cooked or steamed.
- For extra flavor, add a dash of garlic powder or cheddar cheese to the soup mixture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
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