This Classic Green Bean Casserole is the ultimate holiday side dish, combining tender green beans with a creamy mushroom sauce and topped with crispy fried onions. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special meal, it’s easy to prepare, and the rich flavors pair well with almost any main course.
INGREDIENTS
- Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup: Creates a creamy base for the casserole, adding a comforting and savory flavor.
- Milk: Thins the mushroom soup slightly, creating a smooth, creamy consistency for the sauce.
- Pure Ground Black Pepper: Adds a subtle hint of spice, balancing the richness of the mushroom sauce.
- Green Beans (Canned, Frozen, or Fresh): Provides a hearty base for the casserole. Choose canned for convenience, frozen for texture, or fresh for a crisp bite.
- Crispy Fried Onions: Adds a crunchy, savory topping that contrasts with the creamy green bean mixture. It’s the signature finishing touch of this classic dish.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for heating the casserole evenly and melting the topping to a golden brown.
- Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Base
- In a 1 1/2-quart baking dish, mix together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, and black pepper until smooth. This will form the creamy base that coats the green beans.
- Step 3: Add the Green Beans and Onions
- Stir the drained green beans into the soup mixture, ensuring they’re well coated. Add 2/3 cup of the crispy fried onions, reserving the rest for topping. The onions will add flavor throughout the casserole.
- Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the mixture is hot and bubbly. This step allows the sauce to thicken slightly and flavors to meld.
- Step 5: Add the Final Onion Topping
- Remove the casserole from the oven and stir the mixture briefly. Sprinkle the remaining 2/3 cup of crispy fried onions on top in an even layer.
- Step 6: Finish Baking
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and crispy. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Make-Ahead Tips
- To prepare the casserole ahead of time, complete Steps 1-3, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze until ready to serve. When ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then proceed with Step 4. If baking from frozen, allow the dish to stand at room temperature for 10 minutes, then bake, adding time in 15-minute increments until it reaches 160°F in the center.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve this Green Bean Casserole warm, straight from the oven, for the best flavor and texture. It pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey, ham, or beef.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead and frozen. Follow the make-ahead instructions and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Helpful Notes
- Choose fresh, frozen, or canned green beans depending on your preference and time availability. Fresh beans offer a crisp texture, while canned beans provide convenience.
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream to the soup mixture.
- If you enjoy a bit more seasoning, add a dash of onion powder or garlic powder to the soup mixture for added depth of flavor.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Julia Child suggests blanching fresh green beans briefly in boiling water to preserve their bright color and crispness in casseroles.
- Chef Alton Brown recommends using high-quality crispy fried onions for the best flavor and texture on top.
- Chef Ree Drummond adds a bit of cheese to her green bean casserole for an extra layer of richness.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This classic Green Bean Casserole is creamy, savory, and topped with a deliciously crispy layer of onions, making it a crowd-pleasing dish at holiday gatherings.
- It’s easy to prepare with only a few ingredients and can be made ahead for convenience.
- The combination of creamy sauce and crunchy topping provides a wonderful contrast in textures.
Variations
- Add a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese to the casserole for an added layer of flavor and richness.
- For a gourmet touch, use fresh mushrooms sautéed in butter instead of condensed mushroom soup.
- Try using different types of crispy toppings, such as panko breadcrumbs or crumbled bacon, to create a unique flavor profile.