If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, crowd-pleasing side dish that brings nostalgia and flavor together, this Classic Green Bean Casserole Recipe is an absolute winner. It combines tender green beans with a creamy mushroom sauce, topped off with irresistible crispy fried onions for a perfect savory crunch. This dish has been a beloved staple at holiday dinners and family gatherings for decades, and once you make it, you’ll see why it deserves a permanent spot on your table too.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this recipe are delightfully simple but totally essential to getting that signature taste and texture. Each element plays a crucial role, from the creamy soup base to the crispy topping that adds wonderful color and crunch.
- Cream of mushroom soup: Acts as the creamy, savory foundation of the casserole, binding everything together.
- Milk: Lightens up the soup, adding just the right amount of creaminess without being heavy.
- Soy sauce: Adds a subtle umami boost that deepens the overall flavor.
- Black pepper: Seasonal seasoning that enhances the dish without overpowering it.
- Green beans: The star vegetable, cooked tender and full of fresh flavor.
- French fried onions: Provide the iconic crispy topping that crowns this dish with irresistible texture.
How to Make Classic Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This gets everything ready for a perfectly baked casserole that’s hot all the way through with bubbling goodness.
Step 2: Combine the Magic Ingredients
In a 13 by 9-inch baking dish, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and freshly cracked black pepper. Then, fold in the drained green beans until everything is evenly coated. This combination is where the creamy sauce meets fresh veggies for a harmonious marriage of flavors.
Step 3: Bake the Base
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and let it bake uncovered for 25 minutes. This step lets the sauce thicken and the beans cook through until tender but still retaining a slight bite — the perfect texture balance you want in this casserole.
Step 4: Add the Crunch
After the initial baking, sprinkle 2 to 3 cups of French fried onions evenly over the top. Return the casserole to the oven for an additional 5 minutes. This last bake gloriously crisps the onions, giving the dish its iconic crunchy, golden finish that everyone waits for.
How to Serve Classic Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
While the French fried onions are a must, you can enhance the presentation by adding a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives for a pop of green color and fresh flavor. A light drizzle of freshly cracked black pepper on top also perks up the look and taste.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with holiday mains like roast turkey, baked ham, or even a juicy grilled steak. For a full meal, serve alongside mashed potatoes or sweet potato casserole to keep the comforting vibe going strong.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Classic Green Bean Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets for a charming single-serve presentation. You can also layer it in a clear glass dish to showcase the creamy beans and crunchy topping, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After the feast, packing away leftovers properly keeps the casserole tasting fresh. Store the dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to separate any leftover crispy onions to keep them crunchy until you’re ready to reheat.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. For the best texture, freeze it without the fried onions and add them fresh after reheating. Wrap it tightly in foil or use a freezer-safe container, and it will keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until it’s warmed through, about 20 minutes. Add the French fried onions on top halfway through reheating for that freshly baked crunch. Avoid using the microwave if possible to maintain texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh green beans can give the casserole a fresher taste and firmer texture. Just blanch the green beans first to soften them before mixing into the creamy base.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you’re not a fan of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup works wonderfully and gives a slightly different but still delicious flavor profile to your casserole.
Is there a way to make this dish vegan?
Yes! Use a plant-based cream of mushroom soup and substitute the fried onions with a vegan-friendly crispy topping. Also, swap milk for any non-dairy alternative such as almond or oat milk.
How long can I bake the casserole before it gets too dry?
Baking it for about 30 to 35 minutes total keeps things moist and creamy. Going much longer can dry out the casserole, so keep an eye on that golden top and creamy sides.
Can I prepare this casserole a day ahead?
Definitely. Assemble the casserole the day before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, just bake it according to the instructions, adding the fried onions at the end for that perfect crunchy finish.
Final Thoughts
There is something wonderfully comforting and timeless about this Classic Green Bean Casserole Recipe. It’s easy, nostalgic, and full of flavor — the perfect side dish to bring people together around the table. I encourage you to give it a try and see how it becomes a fast favorite for your family and friends just like it has been for generations.
Print
Classic Green Bean Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic green bean casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make side dish, perfect for holidays or weeknight dinners. Creamy mushroom soup combines with tender green beans and crispy fried onions for a deliciously nostalgic flavor.
Ingredients
Casserole
- 2 (10.5 ounce) cans cream of mushroom soup (cream of chicken works well too!)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- Black pepper, to taste
- 5 (14.5 ounce) cans green beans, drained
Topping
- 2–3 cups French fried onions (such as French’s)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole evenly.
- Mix Ingredients: In a 13×9 inch baking dish, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, black pepper, and drained green beans. Stir gently to evenly coat the green beans with the creamy mixture.
- Bake Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the mixture uncovered for 25 minutes, allowing it to heat through and flavors to meld.
- Add Fried Onions: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the top evenly with 2 to 3 cups of French fried onions.
- Final Bake: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes. This step crisps up the topping, adding a delightful crunch to the creamy casserole.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and fried onions.
- Feel free to substitute cream of chicken soup if preferred.
- Adjust the pepper to taste but soy sauce adds subtle umami flavor and saltiness.
- Use fresh or frozen green beans if canned are not available, just make sure to cook or steam them first.
- This dish is best served warm as a side for turkey, chicken, or other roasted meats.
