Traditional Green Bean Casserole Recipe

Green Bean Casserole is a beloved classic side dish, especially during the holiday season. Originally created by Campbell’s Soup Company in the 1950s, this creamy, crunchy dish has become a staple at Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other festive gatherings. Made with tender green beans, savory cream of mushroom soup, and topped with crispy fried onions, this Traditional Green Bean Casserole is simple, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to the kitchen, this recipe will help you recreate the magic of this classic dish.

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What Is Traditional Green Bean Casserole?

Traditional Green Bean Casserole is a classic American side dish that combines green beans with a creamy sauce made from cream of mushroom soup and milk, and is topped with crispy fried onions for added texture. It’s an easy, comforting dish that pairs beautifully with many main courses, from roast turkey to baked ham. The balance of creamy and crunchy textures, along with the savory mushroom flavor, makes this a favorite at family dinners and holiday celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Simple ingredients: Only five main ingredients, and they’re pantry staples.
• Quick to make: It comes together in under 30 minutes.
• Perfect for holidays: A must-have side for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other special meals.
• Make-ahead friendly: Can be assembled ahead of time and baked when needed.

Ingredients List for Traditional Green Bean Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this classic green bean casserole:

• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) of cut green beans, drained (you can use fresh or frozen as well)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional, for extra umami flavor)
• 1 ⅓ cups French fried onions, divided
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

• Shredded cheddar cheese: Add ½ cup to the sauce for a cheesy version.
• Fresh mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms can enhance the mushroom flavor.
• Garlic powder: A pinch of garlic powder adds a little extra depth.

Substitutions and Variations

This traditional recipe is very versatile and can easily be adjusted based on your preferences or dietary needs:

• Fresh Green Beans: You can use fresh green beans instead of canned. Blanch them in boiling salted water for 4-5 minutes to soften before using.
• Frozen Green Beans: Frozen green beans work perfectly in this recipe. Just thaw them and pat them dry before using.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: For a slightly different flavor, you can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and gluten-free fried onions to make the dish gluten-free.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make a delicious and comforting Traditional Green Bean Casserole:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Drain the Green Beans

If using canned green beans, drain them well. If you’re using fresh green beans, blanch them in boiling water for 4-5 minutes, then immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain well and set aside. If using frozen green beans, make sure to thaw and drain them completely.

Step 3: Mix the Casserole Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.

Step 4: Add the Green Beans and Fried Onions

Gently fold in the drained green beans and ⅔ cup of the French fried onions into the soup mixture, ensuring everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the green bean mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ⅔ cup of fried onions on top for that signature crispy finish.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the onions on top are golden and crispy.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the casserole is golden and bubbly, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Your Traditional Green Bean Casserole is ready to be enjoyed!

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

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Drain the canned green beans or blanch fresh green beans.
3. Mix cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
4. Fold in the green beans and ⅔ cup fried onions.
5. Pour into a baking dish and top with remaining fried onions.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and crispy.
7. Serve hot for a delicious, creamy side dish!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the green beans: If you’re using fresh or frozen green beans, make sure not to overcook them before baking. You want them tender but still slightly crisp.
• Not draining canned green beans: Failing to drain the canned green beans can result in a watery casserole. Be sure to drain them thoroughly before adding them to the dish.
• Burning the fried onions: Keep an eye on the casserole during the last few minutes to make sure the fried onions don’t burn. If they start to brown too quickly, loosely cover the dish with aluminum foil.
• Underseasoning the dish: Don’t forget to season the casserole with salt and pepper to taste. This enhances the flavor of the green beans and mushrooms.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Green Bean Casserole is a versatile dish that works with many different main courses and can be dressed up for special occasions.

How to Serve Traditional Green Bean Casserole

• Holiday Side Dish: This casserole pairs beautifully with roast turkey, ham, or beef, making it a perfect addition to Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners.
• Weeknight Dinner: Serve alongside baked chicken, pork chops, or meatloaf for a comforting weeknight meal.
• Vegetarian Option: This casserole is naturally vegetarian, making it an excellent side dish for plant-based meals.

Presentation Ideas for Traditional Green Bean Casserole

• Serve in a Decorative Dish: For holiday meals, bake the casserole in a pretty ceramic dish and bring it straight to the table.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary for a pop of color and freshness.
• Cheesy Top: For a cheesy version, sprinkle shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese on top before adding the fried onions.

Traditional Green Bean Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make It Ahead: You can prepare the casserole ahead of time by assembling everything except the fried onions. Store it in the fridge, and when ready to bake, top with fried onions and bake as directed.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh green beans if possible. Blanching them keeps their vibrant color and firm texture.
• Balance the Richness: If the dish feels too rich, balance the flavors with a splash of lemon juice or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar to brighten it up.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen green beans in this recipe?

Yes! Frozen green beans work perfectly. Just thaw them completely and pat them dry before adding them to the casserole.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole (without the fried onions) up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, top with fried onions and bake as directed.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave until warmed through.

Can I freeze Green Bean Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze Green Bean Casserole. To freeze, prepare the casserole but leave off the fried onion topping. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then top with the fried onions and bake.

Can I add cheese to this recipe?

Definitely! For a cheesy version, you can mix in ½ to 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the soup mixture or sprinkle it on top before adding the fried onions.

Conclusion

This Traditional Green Bean Casserole recipe is a classic, easy-to-make side dish that has been a family favorite for generations. Whether you're serving it for a special holiday dinner or just a comforting weeknight meal, it delivers the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and crunchy textures. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that everyone at the table will love.

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