Green Bean Casserole is a beloved, classic dish often found at holiday tables and family gatherings. The combination of tender green beans, creamy mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions creates a satisfying medley of textures and flavors. Whether it's Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a cozy dinner, this dish offers both comfort and deliciousness. Ready to learn how to make this scrumptious casserole from scratch? Keep reading, and let's dive into this delightful recipe!
What Is Green Bean Casserole?
Green Bean Casserole is a traditional American side dish that typically consists of green beans mixed with cream of mushroom soup, topped with crispy French fried onions. Created by Campbell's Kitchen in the 1950s, the dish quickly became a staple at holiday dinners across the United States. The creamy texture of the soup, combined with the crunch of fried onions, makes it a dish that's hard to resist.
Ingredients List for Green Bean Casserole
To make this classic dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 cups green beans, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces: You can choose to use thawed frozen beans, canned beans, or freshly steamed beans. If you're using canned beans, two 14-ounce cans should be sufficient.
- 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup (10.75 ounces): You can go for a low-sodium, fat-free version for a healthier twist or stick to the traditional variety.
- 2-3 cups cheddar cheese, divided: Some of this cheese will be mixed in the casserole, while the rest will be used to top the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, pressed or minced: Fresh garlic adds a burst of flavor to the dish.
- 2 teaspoons onion powder: This enhances the savory depth of the casserole.
- 10 ounces cheddar-flavored French fried onions: These provide the essential crispy topping, adding both texture and a cheesy bite to the casserole.
Substitutions and Variations
While this recipe follows a classic approach, there are a few ways you can switch things up to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
- Mushroom soup substitution: Not a fan of mushrooms? You can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken, cream of celery, or even a homemade cream sauce.
- Vegan option: To make the casserole vegan-friendly, replace the mushroom soup with a dairy-free version and use plant-based cheese and vegan fried onions. For the green beans, choose fresh or frozen.
- Cheese variations: If cheddar isn’t your favorite, you can swap it out for mozzarella, Swiss, or Gouda to add a different flavor profile.
- Low-carb/keto version: Substitute the fried onions with crushed pork rinds or a combination of almond flour and Parmesan for a crunchy, keto-friendly topping.
- Extra vegetables: Add some sautéed mushrooms, chopped bell peppers, or sliced onions for more texture and flavor. These additions work well and make the dish even heartier.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making a Green Bean Casserole is simple and straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide that will help you prepare it with ease.

- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows the casserole to bake evenly and ensures a golden, crispy top.
- Prepare the green beans: If you're using fresh beans, steam them until tender, about 5-6 minutes. For frozen beans, let them thaw and drain any excess moisture. Canned beans only need to be drained.
- Make the creamy mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, pressed garlic, and onion powder. Stir well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Add cheese to the mix: Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese. The cheese will melt into the soup, creating a rich, creamy sauce that will coat the green beans.
- Combine the green beans with the creamy mixture: Gently fold the drained green beans into the soup and cheese mixture. Make sure all the beans are coated evenly.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish: Use a baking dish large enough to hold all the ingredients. Smooth out the top for even cooking.
- Top with cheese and fried onions: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole. Then, evenly distribute the French fried onions across the top.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The cheese should be bubbly, and the fried onions should be golden brown.
- Let it rest: After baking, allow the casserole to sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to serve.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even a simple recipe like Green Bean Casserole can have a few common pitfalls. Here's what to watch out for:
- Too watery: If you don't drain the green beans well enough, your casserole can turn out runny. Make sure to drain any excess liquid, especially if you're using canned or frozen beans.
- Overcooking the beans: Steaming fresh beans until they’re tender-crisp is ideal. Overcooked beans can turn mushy in the casserole.
- Burning the fried onions: Keep a close eye on the casserole during the final minutes of baking to ensure the French fried onions don’t burn. You want them golden and crispy, not blackened.
- Not seasoning enough: While the mushroom soup adds flavor, don’t skimp on seasoning. You can add salt, pepper, and even a pinch of cayenne if you like it spicier.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Green Bean Casserole is a dish that shines when it's served piping hot. To elevate your presentation, you can go beyond simply spooning it onto plates. Here are some ideas:
- Casserole dish choice: A ceramic or glass baking dish adds a homey feel, but for special occasions, you could serve it in a decorative oven-to-table dish.
- Fresh garnish: Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives on top of the casserole right before serving for a pop of color.
- Individual servings: For a more upscale presentation, you can make individual mini casseroles using ramekins. This works especially well for dinner parties.
- Serve alongside complementary dishes: Pair the casserole with roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, or stuffing for a complete meal, especially during holiday dinners.
How to Serve Green Bean Casserole
Green Bean Casserole is typically served as a side dish, but you can also make it the star of the meal if you add a protein. Here’s how you can serve it:
- As a side dish: Serve it alongside roasted meats like turkey, ham, or beef. It's an excellent side for any hearty entrée.
- As a main dish: If you’re looking to make it the centerpiece of the meal, consider mixing in some cooked ground beef, chicken, or even sausage before baking.
- With a salad: A light salad with a zesty vinaigrette can be a perfect complement to the richness of the casserole.
Presentation Ideas for Green Bean Casserole
To make the casserole look as good as it tastes, try these presentation ideas:
- Layered look: Ensure the cheese and fried onions are evenly distributed for a balanced, appetizing appearance.
- Spruce up with vegetables: Add colorful vegetables like red bell peppers or cherry tomatoes on top for a festive presentation.
- Individual portions: Serve the casserole in individual ceramic dishes for a personalized touch.
Green Bean Casserole Recipe Tips
Here are some extra tips to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time:
- Make ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add the fried onions right before baking to keep them crispy.
- Reheating: If you have leftovers, the casserole can be reheated in the oven to maintain its crispy topping. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the fried onions soggy.
- Add crunch: If you love extra crunch, stir some of the fried onions directly into the casserole before baking and then add more on top.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned or frozen?
Yes, fresh green beans work well. Just be sure to steam or blanch them until they're tender before adding them to the casserole.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just wait to add the fried onions until right before you bake.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
You can substitute it with cream of chicken, cream of celery, or a homemade cream sauce made from scratch.
How can I make the casserole healthier?
Use low-sodium, fat-free mushroom soup and reduced-fat cheese. You can also add more veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Conclusion
Green Bean Casserole is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. With its creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and crispy topping, it’s a perfect addition to any gathering, whether it’s a holiday celebration or a simple family dinner. With easy-to-follow instructions and a variety of substitution options, this recipe can be customized to suit your taste and dietary needs. Ready to impress your family with this classic dish? Gather your ingredients and give it a try today!
PrintTraditional Green Bean Casserole Recipe
This traditional green bean casserole recipe combines tender green beans, rich cream of mushroom soup, cheddar cheese, and crispy fried onions. The dish is easy to make and packed with flavor, making it a perfect holiday side dish or weeknight favorite.
- 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
- 4 cups green beans (drained and cut)
- 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup (10.75 oz)
- 2-3 cups cheddar cheese (divided)
- 2 cloves garlic (pressed or minced)
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 10 ounces cheddar-flavor French Fried onions
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine green beans, cream of mushroom soup, garlic, onion powder, and 1-2 cups of cheddar cheese.
- Mix well and pour the mixture into a baking dish.
- Top with remaining cheddar cheese and French Fried onions.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Notes
- You can use fresh, frozen, or canned green beans.
- Add extra garlic or onions for a bolder flavor.
- For a lighter version, use low-sodium or fat-free mushroom soup.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
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