Green bean casserole is a beloved holiday dish that’s easy to make and packed with comforting flavors. With its creamy sauce, tender green beans, and crunchy topping, it’s a staple at Thanksgiving tables across the U.S. This simple recipe is perfect for family gatherings, and you can make it in no time. Here’s how to make a classic green bean casserole that everyone will love!
What Is Green Bean Casserole?
Green bean casserole is a baked dish made from green beans mixed with a creamy mushroom sauce, topped with fried onions for a crunchy finish. It was originally created by Campbell’s in the 1950s and has since become a holiday favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this easy recipe, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cans (14.5 oz) of green beans (drained)
- Fresh or frozen green beans work too, but you’ll need to cook them first.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup
- This is the classic choice, but feel free to try cream of chicken for a different flavor.
- 1/2 cup of milk
- Adds creaminess to the sauce.
- 1 1/3 cups of crispy fried onions
- Half goes inside the casserole, and the rest goes on top.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Oven
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine the green beans, mushroom soup, milk, and half of the fried onions. Stir until everything is well-coated in the sauce.
- Bake the Casserole
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish (about 1.5-quart size).
- Bake uncovered for 25 minutes.
- Add the Crunchy Topping
- After 25 minutes, sprinkle the remaining fried onions on top of the casserole.
- Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the onions are golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes, then serve hot!
Tips for the Best Green Bean Casserole
- Try Fresh Green Beans
If you prefer a fresher flavor, use fresh green beans. Steam them until tender, then add them to the casserole. - Make It Ahead
Green bean casserole is perfect for preparing the day before. Just assemble everything except the topping, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add the onions on top and cook as usual. - Experiment with Seasonings
Add spices like garlic powder, black pepper, or even a dash of soy sauce to the mushroom soup for a more intense flavor.
Variations to Try
- Cheesy Green Bean Casserole: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese with the green bean mixture for a creamy, cheesy texture.
- Bacon Green Bean Casserole: Add cooked, crumbled bacon to the casserole for a smoky flavor.
Sources
This recipe has its roots in Campbell’s classic recipe, which was first introduced in the 1950s. You can find a detailed version of this recipe on the Campbell’s website.