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Best Green Bean Casserole
Green bean casserole is a classic dish that often graces our tables during the holidays, but it truly shines as a weeknight dinner staple, too. This recipe combines canned green beans, creamy mushroom soup, and melty cheese, creating a delightful comfort food that’s both quick to prepare and satisfying. I remember the first time I brought this casserole to a family gathering; it vanished in minutes! It’s that simple yet delicious combination that keeps people coming back for seconds (and thirds).
What Makes This Recipe Special
Why should you give this green bean casserole a try? For starters, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and just a few simple steps. With its creamy texture and crunchy topping, this dish strikes the perfect balance of flavors and textures that all members of the family will love.
Imagine this: after a long day, you want a meal that comes together in under an hour without compromising on taste. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this casserole fits seamlessly into any occasion.
"I’ve tried many green bean casseroles, but this one is by far the best! It’s rich and creamy, with that perfect crunch on top. My kids even ask for it during the week!" – A Happy Home Cook
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It
Making this green bean casserole is a straightforward process that even beginner cooks can master. The recipe involves combining all your ingredients, warming them, and then baking to perfection. In just about 30 minutes, you will have a bubbling, cheesy casserole ready to serve.
You will need to gather your ingredients first, but don’t worry—this recipe includes just a few essentials. Let’s dive into what you’ll need!
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Gather Your Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cans green beans (14.5 oz each, drained)
- 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 cup Cheddar cheese (shredded, divided)
- 1 can French-fried onions (6 oz)
- Crumbled bacon (optional)
- Sautéed onions or mushrooms (optional)
- Fresh garlic (optional, minced)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional for topping)
Feel free to get creative; if you’re in the mood for some added flavor, consider crumbled bacon or fresh garlic to elevate the dish even more!
Step-by-Step Directions
Cooking Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the drained green beans and condensed cream of mushroom soup. Microwave for about 3–5 minutes until warmed through.
- Stir in 1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese and microwave again for an additional 2–3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and create a creamy texture.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and spread evenly. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of Cheddar cheese, then sprinkle the French-fried onions generously over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the onions have turned golden brown. Serve warm, and enjoy!
Tips for Serving
Want to make your green bean casserole the star of the meal? Consider serving it alongside roasted chicken, turkey, or even a savory pot roast for an unforgettable family dinner. For an added touch, a fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the casserole beautifully.
Don’t forget to keep some extra French-fried onions on hand for anyone who loves that extra crunch!
Best Way to Store Best Green Bean Casserole
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is a common occurrence with this dish!), you can store them easily. Simply let the casserole cool down completely, then cover it tightly with aluminum foil or transfer it to an airtight container. Properly stored, it should last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.
Feel free to reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave for a quicker option. If you need to keep it longer, freezing is a great option—just make sure to use freezer-safe containers!
Pro Chef Tips
To take this casserole up a notch, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or fresh garlic to the green bean mixture before baking. This extra touch enhances the flavor and aroma, making it even more delectable.
Also, for a gourmet touch, try mixing in a bit of cream cheese with the Cheddar for an ultra-creamy texture. You can also switch things up with different cheese varieties like Gouda or fontina for a smooth twist on the classic flavor.
Recipe Variations
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few creative twists to personalize your casserole:
- Italian-Inspired: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes and Italian spices, topping with mozzarella cheese for a different flair.
- Southern Comfort: Add sautéed bacon and a sprinkling of hot sauce for a Southern twist that packs a punch.
- Vegetarian Delight: Swap the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade mushroom roux for a fresh, from-scratch option.
FAQ
How long does this recipe take to prepare?
This green bean casserole takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and convenient choice for busy weeknight dinners or last-minute holiday gatherings.
Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! While using canned green beans makes this recipe super easy, you can swap them for fresh green beans. Just make sure to blanch them first in boiling water for 3-4 minutes to soften before mixing with the other ingredients.
Is it safe to freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftover green bean casserole. Be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Just remember that the texture of the crispy onions may change after freezing and reheating.
Give this green bean casserole a try, and I promise it will soon become a beloved favorite in your home cooking repertoire!
Print
Green Bean Casserole
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy green bean casserole combines canned green beans, rich mushroom soup, and melty cheese, making it a quick and delicious weeknight dinner or holiday staple.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cans green beans (14.5 oz each, drained)
- 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 cup Cheddar cheese (shredded, divided)
- 1 can French-fried onions (6 oz)
- Crumbled bacon (optional)
- Sautéed onions or mushrooms (optional)
- Fresh garlic (optional, minced)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the drained green beans and condensed cream of mushroom soup. Microwave for about 3–5 minutes until warmed through.
- Stir in 1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese and microwave again for an additional 2–3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and create a creamy texture.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and spread evenly. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of Cheddar cheese, then sprinkle the French-fried onions generously over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the onions have turned golden brown. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
For best flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or fresh garlic to the mixture. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: green bean casserole, vegetable side dish, holiday recipe
