Best Green Bean Casserole Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, crowd-pleasing classic that always delivers on flavor and nostalgia, look no further than the Best Green Bean Casserole. This dish takes simple ingredients like crisp green beans, creamy mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions to create a luscious casserole bursting with texture and savory goodness. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight addition, this recipe is the ultimate way to enjoy a timeless favorite with a homemade touch that’s bound to impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The charm of the Best Green Bean Casserole lies in its straightforward ingredients that each play a crucial role. Fresh or canned green beans bring vibrant color and a satisfying snap, while the creamy mushroom soup mixture adds luscious, velvety flavor. Cheese and crispy fried onions elevate the dish with rich layers and irresistible crunch. Let’s look at what you’ll gather to make this all-time classic.
- 16-20 oz fresh green beans (or 2-3 14.5 oz cans canned green beans): Fresh gives the best texture, canned is a convenient shortcut.
- 1 10.75 oz can condensed cream of mushroom soup: Brings the essential creamy base, although homemade versions work beautifully too.
- 1/2 cup milk: Adds smoothness, balancing the mushroom soup perfectly.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or veggie broth): Enhances the savory depth.
- 1 small onion (finely diced): Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic foundation.
- 3 garlic cloves (minced): For a gentle punch of flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground thyme: Provides earthy herbal notes that complement the casserole.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a hint of warmth and color.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: Just enough spice to awaken the palate.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the casserole for the perfect creamy, gooey layer.
- 1 cup French fried onions (homemade or store-bought): Brings crispy, golden topping to crown the dish.
How to Make Best Green Bean Casserole
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit—this ensures nice even baking later. Lightly spray a 9×3-inch oven-safe baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
Step 2: Prepare the Green Beans
If you’re using canned green beans, give them a good drain and set aside. For fresh green beans, wash and trim the ends, then boil them in salted water for 5-6 minutes until they turn a vibrant deep green and become just tender. Immediately rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process, then drain thoroughly.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Sauce
In a large bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, and chicken or vegetable broth. Stir until smooth and well blended to form that classic creamy base that defines the dish.
Step 4: Enhance the Flavor
Add finely diced onion, minced garlic, thyme, paprika, and black pepper to the sauce mixture. These spices weave in a depth of flavor that takes the casserole from simple to sublime.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Gently fold in the prepared green beans, cheddar cheese, and 1 cup of French fried onions into the sauce. This mix promises layers of texture and hearty taste in every bite.
Step 6: Transfer and Level
Pour your flavorful mixture into the prepared baking dish and use a spatula to spread it evenly and level the surface for even cooking and a beautiful presentation.
Step 7: Add the Topping
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top, and evenly distribute 1 cup of French fried onions across the surface to create a golden, crispy topping as it bakes.
Bake and Finish
Bake the casserole in the oven for about 20 minutes, just until the cheese melts and the onions start to brown. Then sprinkle the last cup of French fried onions on top, return to the oven, and bake for an additional 10 minutes for that extra crisp and golden finish that makes this the Best Green Bean Casserole.
How to Serve Best Green Bean Casserole
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives to the top right before serving. This touch not only brightens the look but adds a fresh, herby balance to the rich, creamy casserole.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines alongside perfectly roasted turkey, baked ham, or as part of a festive holiday spread with mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce. Its creamy, savory character complements just about any main course, making it a superstar at the table.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the Best Green Bean Casserole in individual ramekins for elegant portioned servings, or create a layered green bean dip by adding alternating layers of the casserole mixture and a creamy cheese spread for parties and gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s just as delicious when reheated, allowing you to enjoy that comforting flavor again with ease.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole before baking by wrapping it tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as usual.
Reheating
To reheat, place the casserole in a 350-degree Fahrenheit oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through. If needed, add a few extra French fried onions on top for crunch before serving.
FAQs
Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh green beans have a crisper texture and brighter flavor, especially when briefly boiled and shocked in cold water as in this recipe.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
You can make your own mushroom sauce using sautéed mushrooms, garlic, broth, and cream or milk for a fresher, less processed option that tastes amazing.
How do I make homemade French fried onions?
Slice onions thinly, soak in milk, dredge in seasoned flour, and deep-fry until golden and crispy. This boosts flavor and texture even more than store-bought onions.
Is the Best Green Bean Casserole suitable for vegetarians?
If you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensure the cheese contains no animal rennet, this yummy casserole can be made vegetarian-friendly.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance, keep it covered in the fridge, and bake when ready. Just add the crisp onions topping just before baking for the ultimate crunch.
Final Thoughts
I truly believe that once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed green bean casserole any other way. The Best Green Bean Casserole combines creamy, savory, and crunchy elements into one comforting dish that brings joy to any meal. So grab those ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and prepare to impress yourself and your loved ones with this timeless treasure!
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Best Green Bean Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Best Green Bean Casserole is a classic comfort dish featuring tender green beans in a creamy mushroom sauce, topped with crispy French fried onions and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for holiday meals or family dinners, it combines freshness and rich flavors with an option for homemade crunchy onion topping.
Ingredients
Casserole Ingredients
- 16–20 oz fresh green beans (or 2–3 14.5 oz cans canned green beans)
- 1 10.75 oz can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 2 cups French fried onions (or homemade as below, divided)
Homemade French Fried Onions Ingredients
- 3 large onions, sliced into thin rings
- 2 cups milk or buttermilk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon hot red pepper powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Vegetable or canola oil for frying
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly spray a 9×3-inch oven-safe baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.
- Prepare Green Beans: If using canned green beans, drain and set aside. If using fresh, rinse and trim the ends. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook fresh green beans for 5-6 minutes until tender and vibrant green. Drain and immediately rinse with cold water, then drain again.
- Make Casserole Mixture: In a large bowl, combine condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, and chicken broth. Stir in finely diced onion, minced garlic, ground thyme, paprika, and black pepper until well mixed.
- Add Green Beans and Cheese: Stir in the prepared green beans, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, and 1 cup French fried onions into the mixture until evenly combined.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and level the top with a spatula.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole. Then distribute 1 cup of French fried onions over the top.
- Bake Initially: Bake the casserole for approximately 20 minutes until the cheese has melted and the onions begin to brown.
- Add Final Onion Layer: Remove casserole from oven, add the last cup of French fried onions on top, then bake an additional 10 minutes to crisp the topping.
- Serve: Serve the casserole hot or at room temperature for best flavor.
- Homemade French Fried Onions Preparation: If making homemade onions, soak sliced onions in milk or buttermilk for 20 minutes. Whisk together flour, garlic powder, hot red pepper powder, salt, and black pepper in a separate bowl. Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F. Dredge soaked onions in the flour mixture, shake off excess, and fry in batches until golden brown. Drain on paper towels and use as topping.
Notes
- You can use canned or fresh green beans based on availability and preference.
- Homemade French fried onions add a fresher, crunchier texture but require more preparation time.
- Adjust spices such as paprika and red pepper powder to taste for mild or spicy flavor.
- This dish can be made ahead and baked just before serving.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Use low-fat milk and cheese options to reduce fat content if desired.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
Keywords: green bean casserole, holiday side dish, French fried onions, creamy mushroom sauce, classic American recipe
