There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, creamy green bean casserole. Whether it’s a holiday staple or a weeknight side dish, this recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a dish that’s both nostalgic and delicious. If you’re looking for a foolproof green bean casserole recipe that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, you’ve come to the right place.

This green bean casserole recipe is perfect for busy families, meal preppers, or anyone who loves a hearty, homemade dish. With just a handful of ingredients—like fresh string beans, creamy mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions—you can whip up a crowd-pleasing casserole in no time. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to dietary needs or personal preferences.

Ready to learn how to make green bean casserole that’s creamy, crunchy, and utterly irresistible? Let’s get started!

Key Takeaways

• Classic Comfort Food: This green bean casserole recipe is a timeless dish that’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or family dinners.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, even beginners can master this recipe.
• Customizable: Swap ingredients to suit dietary needs or add your own twist with extra spices or toppings.
• Crowd-Pleasing: The combination of creamy sauce, tender string beans, and crispy onions makes this dish a favorite for all ages.

Green Bean Casserole Ingredients

The beauty of this green bean casserole recipe lies in its simplicity. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, and the dish comes together quickly. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredient Notes:

• Green Beans: Fresh string beans are ideal, but frozen green beans work just as well. Avoid canned green beans, as they can become too mushy.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is the base of the creamy sauce. For a homemade touch, you can make your own cream of mushroom soup.
• French Fried Onions: These add the signature crunch. You can find French fried onions in the canned vegetable aisle of your grocery store.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Having the right tools on hand makes cooking easier and more efficient. Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:

How to Make Green Bean Casserole: Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious green bean casserole that’s creamy, crunchy, and full of flavor.

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
2. Prepare the Green Beans: If you’re using fresh green beans, trim the ends and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Blanch them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant color. If you’re using frozen green beans, make sure to thaw them completely before using.
3. Make the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and well blended.
4. Combine Ingredients: Add the green beans to the sauce and mix until evenly coated. Fold in 1 cup of French fried onions.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of French fried onions on top, and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crispy.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh or frozen green beans
• 2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 ½ cups French fried onions

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Blanch fresh green beans or thaw frozen ones.
3. Mix soup, milk, soy sauce, garlic powder, and pepper in a bowl.
4. Add green beans and 1 cup of fried onions to the sauce.
5. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
6. Bake covered for 25 minutes, then uncover and top with remaining onions. Bake for 5-10 more minutes.
7. Serve warm.

Variations and Substitutions

This green bean casserole recipe is highly adaptable. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and fried onions.
• Vegan: Swap the cream of mushroom soup for a vegan version and use plant-based milk.
• Extra Flavor: Add sautéed mushrooms, shredded cheese, or a dash of hot sauce.
• Crunchy Topping: Use crushed crackers or breadcrumbs instead of fried onions.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your green bean casserole with:

• Roasted turkey or baked ham for a holiday feast.
• Mashed potatoes and gravy for a comforting meal.
• A crisp green salad to balance the richness.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a pop of color.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the casserole (without the fried onions) for up to 2 months. Add the onions before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to maintain the crispy topping.

FAQ

1. Can I use canned green beans?
   While you can, fresh or frozen green beans are recommended for better texture.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes! Assemble the casserole (without baking) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the fried onions before baking.
3. Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup with something else?
   Try cream of celery or homemade mushroom sauce.

This green bean casserole recipe is a timeless classic that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or enjoying it as a weeknight side, it’s a dish that brings people together. Happy cooking!