Classic Green Bean Casserole Recipe

Green bean casserole is one of those classic side dishes that has stood the test of time. With its creamy, savory base, tender green beans, and crunchy fried onion topping, this dish is a must-have for holiday dinners or any comfort-food occasion. It's incredibly easy to make, requires only a few ingredients, and can be adapted to suit various tastes. If you're looking for a foolproof, traditional recipe that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters, then keep reading for step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and tricks to master the classic green bean casserole recipe.

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What is a Classic Green Bean Casserole?

The classic green bean casserole was originally created in 1955 by Dorcas Reilly at the Campbell Soup Company, aiming to create a simple, delicious side dish that used everyday pantry items. The dish quickly became popular, especially during the holiday season, thanks to its comforting mix of tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and crispy fried onions on top. It's a dish that blends simple ingredients into a flavorful, satisfying casserole that complements a variety of main courses. Whether it's served alongside roast turkey at Thanksgiving or as a side for a weeknight dinner, this dish has earned its spot in the hearts (and stomachs) of millions.

Ingredients List for Classic Green Bean Casserole

Here are the basic ingredients you'll need to make this delicious dish:

1. Green Beans (1 ½ pounds fresh or 2 cans of cut green beans) – Fresh green beans will give you the best texture, but canned or frozen green beans can be used as well.
2. Cream of Mushroom Soup (10 ½ ounces) – This is the creamy base that binds the casserole together.
3. Milk (¾ cup) – Used to thin the soup to make a smooth, creamy sauce.
4. Soy Sauce (1 tablespoon) – Adds a savory umami flavor that deepens the dish.
5. Black Pepper (½ teaspoon) – For seasoning.
6. Fried Onions (1 ⅓ cups) – The crispy topping that makes the dish iconic.

Optional Ingredients for Classic Green Bean Casserole

To give the dish a personal twist, you can add a few optional ingredients:

1. Cheddar Cheese (½ to 1 cup, shredded) – Adds richness and cheesy goodness.
2. Bacon (4 slices, cooked and crumbled) – Adds a smoky, salty flavor.
3. Sautéed Mushrooms (1 cup) – Enhance the mushroom flavor with fresh, sautéed mushrooms.
4. Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon) – For a touch of extra seasoning.
5. Grated Parmesan Cheese (¼ cup) – Adds a sharp, nutty flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

Classic green bean casserole is versatile, making it easy to adapt to various preferences and dietary needs. Here are some popular substitutions and variations:

1. Fresh vs. Canned Green Beans – While fresh green beans are preferred for a firmer texture, canned or frozen green beans can save time and still deliver excellent results. Just make sure to drain and pat dry the canned beans to prevent the dish from becoming watery.
2. Vegan Green Bean Casserole – Use a plant-based cream of mushroom soup and unsweetened almond milk instead of dairy milk. Opt for a dairy-free crispy onion topping, and you’ve got a delicious vegan version.
3. Gluten-Free Green Bean Casserole – Ensure the cream of mushroom soup and fried onions are gluten-free, or make your own from scratch.
4. Cheesy Green Bean Casserole – Add a layer of cheddar or mozzarella cheese between the green beans and fried onions for a cheesy twist.
5. Spicy Green Bean Casserole – For a little heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the casserole.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making a classic green bean casserole is incredibly simple, but to ensure perfect results every time, follow these easy steps.

How to Cook Classic Green Bean Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gives you plenty of time to prepare the ingredients while the oven reaches the right temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the Green Beans
If you're using fresh green beans, trim off the ends and cut them into bite-sized pieces. To ensure the green beans are tender but still crisp, blanch them by boiling them in water for 3-5 minutes, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain and pat dry. If you're using canned green beans, drain them well, and if using frozen green beans, thaw them completely and pat dry.

Step 3: Make the Casserole Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy. If you're adding any optional ingredients like cheese or sautéed mushrooms, mix them in at this stage.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
In a 9x13-inch casserole dish, spread the prepared green beans evenly. Pour the soup mixture over the green beans and stir everything together to ensure the beans are well-coated.

Step 5: Add the Crispy Fried Onions
Sprinkle 1 cup of fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole. This gives you that signature crunch that green bean casserole is known for. Save the remaining fried onions for later.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the mixture is bubbly and the fried onions are golden brown.

Step 7: Add More Fried Onions and Finish Baking
In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the remaining ⅓ cup of fried onions on top of the casserole. This ensures they stay crispy and don’t burn.

Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes it easier to serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using Too Much Liquid – If you add too much milk or don't properly drain canned green beans, the casserole can become watery. Be sure to measure your liquids carefully.
2. Overcooking the Green Beans – If you're using fresh green beans, blanch them briefly to ensure they remain tender-crisp. Overcooking them will make them mushy in the casserole.
3. Not Using Enough Fried Onions – The crispy fried onions are what set this dish apart. Don’t skimp on them; they add both flavor and texture.
4. Forgetting to Stir the Sauce – Be sure to thoroughly whisk the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and seasonings to create a smooth sauce. Any lumps will affect the texture of the dish.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Once your casserole is out of the oven, you’ll want to serve it in style. Here are a few tips for serving and presenting your green bean casserole:

How to Serve Classic Green Bean Casserole

• Family Style – Serve the casserole in the baking dish, allowing guests to help themselves. It’s easy, rustic, and perfect for family gatherings.
• Individual Portions – For a more elegant presentation, portion the casserole into individual ramekins before baking. Each guest can enjoy their own personal casserole with plenty of crispy onions on top.

Presentation Ideas for Classic Green Bean Casserole

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs – A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme over the casserole adds color and a touch of freshness.
• Use a Cast-Iron Skillet – Baking and serving the casserole in a cast-iron skillet gives it a rustic, homey look.
• Fried Onion Tower – For an eye-catching presentation, mound the fried onions into a “tower” shape on top of the casserole for some height and crunch.

Classic Green Bean Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead – You can assemble the casserole (without the fried onion topping) a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the fried onions before baking.
• Double the Recipe – If you're cooking for a large group, double the recipe and use a larger baking dish.
• Add a Personal Touch – Customize the casserole by adding in sautéed mushrooms, cheese, or bacon for extra flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before adding them to the casserole to prevent excess moisture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Assemble it without the fried onion topping, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Add the fried onions just before baking.

How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Can I freeze green bean casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before or after baking. If freezing before baking, leave off the fried onions until you're ready to bake. Allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Conclusion

This classic green bean casserole recipe is a tried-and-true favorite that’s easy to make and loved by everyone. Whether you're preparing it for a holiday meal or simply serving it as a side dish for a weeknight dinner, the creamy texture, savory flavor, and crunchy topping make it an absolute crowd-pleaser. With these step-by-step instructions and helpful tips, you’ll have all the tools you need to make the perfect green bean casserole every time. Try it for your next family gathering and watch it disappear from the table!

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