There is something truly comforting about the Best Green Bean Casserole Recipe, a classic dish that never fails to bring warmth and smiles to the table. Combining tender green beans, creamy mushroom soup, and crispy French-fried onions, this casserole strikes the perfect balance between creamy texture and crunchy topping. Whether it’s a festive holiday meal or just a cozy weeknight side, this recipe offers a delicious way to elevate simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe showcases how a handful of humble ingredients can come together to create magic. Each element plays its own role, bringing flavor, creaminess, or a delightful crunch to the dish. Here’s everything you need to prepare this delight:
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans green beans, drained: The star of the casserole, these provide a tender, vibrant base loaded with nutrients and fresh flavor.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup: This rich and creamy ingredient binds everything together with its savory earthiness.
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese, divided: The cheese adds a melty lushness inside and a golden, bubbly finish on top when split and sprinkled wisely.
- 1 (6 oz) can French-fried onions: The crowning glory that adds crispy texture and an irresistible crunch to contrast with the creamy layers.
How to Make Best Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole will cook evenly and the cheese will melt to perfection, setting up the delicious layers you’ll build next.
Step 2: Mix the Key Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the drained green beans with the condensed cream of mushroom soup and half of the shredded Cheddar cheese. This mixture provides the creamy, savory filling that makes this casserole so special.
Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the creamy green bean mixture into a 1½-quart baking dish. Spreading it evenly helps it cook uniformly and sets the stage for that gorgeous golden topping.
Step 4: Add the Topping
Sprinkle the French-fried onions evenly over the top, followed by the remaining shredded Cheddar cheese. This combination melts beautifully and crisps up to create an irresistible, crunchy crust.
Step 5: Bake to Bubbly Perfection
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes. You’re looking for bubbly sauce and golden, toasted onions that signal it’s time to take it out and enjoy.
Step 6: Serve Hot and Enjoy
Bring your fresh-from-the-oven casserole straight to the table while it is still warm. This dish shines as a comforting, savory side that complements almost any main course.
How to Serve Best Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
While the French-fried onions crown this casserole perfectly, fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper can add a pop of color and a hint of freshness. These simple touches brighten the dish and make it look inviting on any table.
Side Dishes
This casserole is incredibly versatile alongside a wide range of dishes. It pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey or chicken, hearty meatloaf, or even a simple grilled steak. Its creamy texture and crunch offer balance and excitement to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate your presentation by serving this casserole in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for a charming, rustic feel. You can also layer it with extra cheese or add a sprinkle of paprika for added visual appeal that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover green bean casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to deepen, and it remains just as delicious when reheated properly.
Freezing
To freeze, assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake straight from frozen by increasing the baking time a bit to ensure it heats through completely.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven until warmed through and the topping crisps back up, about 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain that delightful crunch on top — the oven is your best friend here.
FAQs
Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh green beans add vibrant color and a firmer texture. Just blanch them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes to soften slightly before mixing with the other ingredients.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can swap the cream of mushroom soup with a vegan alternative, use dairy-free cheese, and skip or replace the French-fried onions with a crunchy vegan topping. This way, you keep the spirit of the Best Green Bean Casserole Recipe without animal products.
Can I add other vegetables or flavors?
Sure! Some people like to add sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or even a touch of garlic powder for extra depth. Just be careful not to overwhelm the classic flavor that makes this dish so beloved.
What is the best way to make the topping extra crispy?
To get the crispiest topping, add the French-fried onions midway through baking or broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes at the end. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning but that final broil adds a beautiful crispiness.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely! Simply double all the ingredients and use a larger baking dish, adjusting the baking time slightly to ensure it heats evenly and the topping crisps perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Best Green Bean Casserole Recipe is truly one of those timeless dishes that brings both comfort and a touch of nostalgia to any meal. Simple to make, packed with flavor, and endlessly adaptable, it deserves a spot on your regular recipe rotation. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a family favorite that everyone asks for year after year.
Print
Best Green Bean Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Best Green Bean Casserole recipe is a classic, comforting side dish perfect for holiday dinners or casual meals. Featuring tender green beans combined with creamy mushroom soup, melted Cheddar cheese, and crispy French-fried onions on top, it offers a delightful mix of textures and rich flavors. Quick to prepare and oven-baked to golden perfection, this casserole serves 6 and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Green Beans
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans green beans, drained
Sauce and Cheese
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
Topping
- 1 (6 oz) can French-fried onions
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking your casserole evenly.
- Mix the ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the drained green beans, condensed cream of mushroom soup, and half of the shredded Cheddar cheese. Stir well to coat the green beans evenly with the creamy mixture.
- Prepare the baking dish: Transfer the green bean mixture into a 1½-quart baking dish, spreading it out evenly for uniform baking.
- Add toppings: Sprinkle the French-fried onions evenly over the top of the green bean mixture, then sprinkle the remaining shredded Cheddar cheese on top to create a flavorful, crispy crust.
- Bake the casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and serve hot as a savory side dish to complement your main meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding a dash of black pepper or garlic powder to the green bean mixture.
- You can substitute fresh or frozen green beans; if using fresh, blanch them before mixing.
- To keep the French-fried onions extra crispy, add them just before serving instead of baking.
- This casserole is a great make-ahead dish and can be refrigerated before baking; increase cook time slightly if baking from cold.
