There’s a special comfort that fills the kitchen when I whip up my family’s beloved green bean casserole. The first time I made it for a holiday gathering, I remember the look of delight on my family’s faces as they savored each creamy, crunchy bite. With just five simple ingredients, this classic dish celebrates the uncomplicated joys of home-cooked meals—perfect for busy weeknights or festive occasions alike.
Imagine the aroma of savory mushrooms mingling with perfectly tender green beans, all topped with a golden crown of crispy French fried onions. It’s not just a side dish; it’s the star that brings everyone together. With its nostalgic flair and a preparation time that clocks in at just 10 minutes, this casserole easily transforms any meal into a comforting feast. Plus, the variations are endless—whether you sprinkle in some pancetta for depth or switch out the beans, you can easily make this dish your own. Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe that promises warmth and flavor in every scoop!
Why is green bean casserole a must-try?
Classic Comfort: This green bean casserole embraces the essence of comfort food, creating a dish that feels just like home.
Simple Ingredients: With only five key ingredients, it’s easy enough for anyone to whip up on a busy night.
Crowd-Pleasing: Its creamy texture and crunchy topping appeal to both kids and adults, making it a hit at gatherings.
Versatile Options: Don’t hesitate to customize with unique additions like pancetta or mixed vegetables to suit your taste.
Quick Preparation: Spend just 10 minutes preparing this beloved side, perfect for unexpected company or special occasions.
Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic dish or a new family favorite, this green bean casserole is sure to delight.
Green Bean Casserole Ingredients
For the Casserole
• Campbell’s® Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup – Provides creaminess and depth of flavor; a homemade cream sauce can be a delightful substitution.
• Milk – Thin out the soup for a pourable consistency; consider non-dairy milk for a lactose-free version.
• Soy Sauce – Adds a touch of umami; tamari can work nicely for a gluten-free option.
• Green Beans – The primary vegetable that brings crunch and color; feel free to use fresh, frozen, or canned green beans based on convenience.
• French Fried Onions – Create a crispy topping; you can also try crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs for a fun variation.
How to Make Green Bean Casserole
Preheat Oven: Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a perfectly cooked casserole that’ll be bubbling with goodness.
Mix Ingredients: In a casserole dish, combine the creamy Campbell’s® Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup, milk, soy sauce, blanched green beans, and 2/3 cup of French fried onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste for added flavor.
First Bake: Place your casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 25 minutes. The goal is to have it bubbling nicely, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
Add Topping: Gently stir the mixture and sprinkle the remaining French fried onions on top. This will give your casserole that delightful crunch we all love!
Second Bake: Return the casserole to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, until the onions are golden brown and crisp. Once done, let it rest for a few moments before serving; this helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These green bean casserole preparations are a lifesaver for busy home cooks! You can mix the casserole ingredients (soup, milk, soy sauce, and blanched green beans) and refrigerate the mixture for up to 3 days before baking. To maintain the best quality, store the mixture in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, pour the mixture into your casserole dish, top it with French fried onions, and bake it at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes, then an additional 5 minutes after adding the onions. This makes the dish just as delicious as when freshly made, allowing you to enjoy flavorful family meals with less stress during the week!
Green Bean Casserole Variations
Feel free to take this beloved green bean casserole and make it your own with these delightful twists!
Vegetable Swap: Replace green beans with broccoli or mixed vegetables for a colorful and nutritious change. This gives a lovely crunch and diverse flavors.
Savory Addition: Add crispy bacon or pancetta to bring a savory depth that elevates the dish and makes it even more irresistible. Trust me, this one’s a crowd favorite!
Cheesy Delight: Stir in a blend of your favorite cheeses—cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella—for a creamy, cheesy variation that will please cheese lovers.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy twist, perfect for those who crave a little heat in their comfort food.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant boost. This adds layers of flavor that match beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted almonds or pecans on top instead of fried onions for a unique twist that introduces a delightful crunch.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of the fried onions to easily cater to gluten-sensitive guests while keeping the dish delicious.
Mushroom Medley: Mix in a variety of sautéed mushrooms for an earthy depth. Combining different types enriches the flavor and enhances the comforting essence of the casserole.
Enjoy experimenting with these variations to create a green bean casserole that fits your taste or the occasion!
Expert Tips for Green Bean Casserole
- Blanch Beans First: Blanch fresh green beans for 2-4 minutes before adding them to the casserole. This enhances their vibrant color and texture.
- Mix It Up: Experiment with variations by adding toasted almonds or pancetta for a touch of savory crunch in your green bean casserole.
- Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on the casserole during the second bake to prevent the onions from burning; golden brown is the perfect shade!
- Prepare Ahead: To save time, assemble your casserole a day in advance. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
- Serving Size Awareness: Each serving is about 152 calories, so feel free to enjoy! Pair with a hearty main for a complete meal.
What to Serve with Green Bean Casserole?
Elevate your family dinner or festive gathering by pairing this creamy delight with perfectly complementary dishes that will tantalize your taste buds.
Roast Chicken: The juicy, tender meat pairs beautifully with the creamy casserole, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting duo with the savory notes of the green bean casserole.
Honey Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness beautifully contrasts the savory and creamy elements of the casserole, adding a burst of color to your plate.
Baked Ham: The saltiness of baked ham complements the casserole perfectly, turning your meal into a heartwarming feast.
Cranberry Sauce: A surprising yet refreshing contrast, this tart sauce adds a pop of flavor that brightens the rich, savory tones of the dish.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and crunchy croutons offer a fresh and zesty side to your meal, cutting through the richness of the casserole.
Herbed Rice Pilaf: The light, fluffy rice acts as a wonderful base, soaking up the creamy goodness and balancing the meal nicely.
For drinks, consider a light white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, or serve a fresh lemonade as a refreshing counterpoint to the dish’s richness.
How to Store and Freeze Green Bean Casserole
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for the best texture.
- Freezer: Freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Make sure it’s tightly sealed to avoid freezer burn.
- Reheating: To reheat from frozen, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes, covering with foil to retain moisture. Uncover for the last 10 minutes to crisp up the topping.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the green bean casserole in advance, store it uncooked in the fridge, and bake on the day you plan to serve for maximum freshness.
Green Bean Casserole Recipe FAQs
What kind of green beans work best for this casserole?
You can use fresh, frozen, or canned green beans for the casserole. If using fresh beans, I recommend blanching them in boiling water for 2-4 minutes to enhance their color and texture. Frozen beans are also convenient; just thaw them before mixing. Canned green beans work in a pinch, but be sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
How should I store leftovers of the green bean casserole?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until it’s warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, allowing that creamy goodness and crispy topping to shine again.
Can I freeze green bean casserole?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), bake it from frozen for about 45 minutes, then cover with foil to retain moisture. Finally, uncover the dish for the last 10 minutes to crisp up that topping!
What can I do if my casserole gets too dry while baking?
If your green bean casserole appears too dry, don’t despair! You can always lightly drizzle a bit more milk or chicken broth over it before covering with foil and continuing to bake. This will help retain moisture and keep it creamy and delicious.
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
For gluten-free options, substitute regular soy sauce with tamari. For lactose intolerance, feel free to use non-dairy milk instead of regular milk. If you’re accommodating pets, be sure to keep the casserole out of reach because onion is toxic to dogs and cats. Enjoy with peace of mind knowing it can be tailored to different dietary needs!
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, indeed! You can assemble the green bean casserole the day before, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge. This makes it an ideal choice for holiday gatherings or busy weeknights!
Savory Green Bean Casserole: A Quick Family Favorite
Equipment
- - Casserole dish
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 1 can Campbell's® Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup a homemade cream sauce can be a delightful substitution.
- 1/2 cup Milk consider non-dairy milk for a lactose-free version.
- 1 tablespoon Soy Sauce tamari can work nicely for a gluten-free option.
- 4 cups Green Beans feel free to use fresh, frozen, or canned green beans based on convenience.
- 2/3 cup French Fried Onions you can also try crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs for a fun variation.
Instructions
How to Make Green Bean Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a casserole dish, combine the creamy Campbell's® Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup, milk, soy sauce, blanched green beans, and 2/3 cup of French fried onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place your casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 25 minutes.
- Gently stir the mixture and sprinkle the remaining French fried onions on top.
- Return the casserole to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, until the onions are golden brown and crisp.