Green Bean Casserole Recipe: A Timeless Classic

Name: Green Bean Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound green beans, trimmed; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup milk; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 ½ cups crispy fried onions; Salt and pepper to taste

If you’re looking for a warm, comforting dish that brings everyone to the table, the classic green bean casserole is an unbeatable choice. I still remember the first time I tasted this creamy, crunchy delight at a family gathering. The combination of tender green beans, savory cream of mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions creates a flavor explosion that’s both nostalgic and satisfying. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, a holiday feast, or a cozy family dinner, this casserole has a special place in many hearts.

Why You’ll Love Making It

There’s something undeniably satisfying about whipping up a dish that combines simplicity with crowd-pleasing flavors. Here’s why green bean casserole deserves a starring role at your next meal:

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or last-minute potluck contributions.
Budget-Friendly: With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious dish that feeds a group without breaking the bank.
Kid-Approved: Children love the crispy onions and cheesy goodness, making it an easy way to get veggies on their plate.
Versatile: Whether you’re serving it at Thanksgiving or a summer barbecue, it fits in seamlessly with any menu.

"This casserole is a holiday staple in our family. It’s easy to make and people always ask for the recipe!" – A happy eater

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Ready to dive into cooking? Making green bean casserole is as easy as 1-2-3! First, you’ll prep your ingredients, and then follow some straightforward steps to create this delicious dish that’s sure to impress.

What You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients ahead of time makes the cooking process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound green beans, trimmed
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (add your favorite cheese for unique flavor!)
1 ½ cups crispy fried onions
Salt and pepper to taste

Note

Feel free to use fresh, frozen, or even canned green beans in this recipe. Just be mindful of the cooking time if you’re using frozen beans!

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Cooking Steps

Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Blanch the Beans: In a large pot of boiling water, blanch the trimmed green beans for about 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Mix the Base: In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
Combine: Fold in the blanched green beans, ensuring they’re well coated with the creamy mixture.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the green bean mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Top It Off: Generously sprinkle the crispy fried onions over the top for that perfect crunch.
Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and the onions are a lovely golden brown.
Serve Warm: Enjoy this comforting dish straight from the oven!

Tips for Serving

Green bean casserole is versatile when it comes to serving suggestions:

As a Side Dish: Pair it with roasted chicken, turkey, or a hearty steak for a balanced meal.
Make It a Main: Top it with grilled chicken or turkey slices for a protein-packed dinner.
Serve Family Style: Place it in the center of the table to encourage sharing and make it a part of your communal dining experience.

Best Way to Store Green Bean Casserole

If you have leftovers—lucky you! Here’s how to keep them fresh:

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: Although the texture may change, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in individual portions.

Pro Chef Tips

To ensure your casserole stands out, consider these handy tips:

Opt for Fresh Ingredients: Fresh green beans will always yield the best texture and flavor.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese! Gouda, mozzarella, or even pepper jack can add a wonderful twist.
Make-Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, refrigerate, and just pop it in the oven before dinner.

Creative Twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are some delicious variations you can try:

Swap the Soup: Use a homemade cream sauce instead of canned soup for a fresher touch.
Add Protein: Toss in some cooked, crumbled bacon or diced ham for an extra savory kick.
Herbs & Spices: A sprinkle of garlic powder or thyme can elevate the flavor profile, giving it a gourmet touch.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare?

Preparation and cooking time total approximately 45 minutes, making it a great option for a quick family meal.

Can I substitute the cheese?

Certainly! Feel free to use your favorite cheese varieties or even omit it for a dairy-free version.

Is it safe to freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze it! Just remember that the texture may change after freezing and thawing.

By following this straightforward recipe, you’ll have a delicious green bean casserole that’s sure to become a favorite among friends and family alike. Happy cooking!