Classic Green Bean Casserole – Creamy And Delicious

If you’re looking for a creamy, crunchy side dish that’s a crowd-pleaser, this Green Bean Casserole is the perfect recipe. Made with tender green beans, a rich mushroom sauce, and topped with crispy onions, this dish is a staple for holidays or any comforting meal.

Let’s dive into this timeless classic!

Green Bean Casserole

Annie Graves

Make this Classic Green Bean Casserole! Tender green beans in a creamy sauce, topped with crispy onions for the ultimate comfort food side dish.

4.89 from 17 votes

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Green Bean Casserole

• 1 lb fresh green beans trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces (or 1 lb frozen green beans, thawed)
• 1 can 10.5 oz condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk whole or 2%
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese optional, for extra creaminess
• 1 1/2 cups crispy fried onions store-bought or homemade

Optional Add-Ins

• 1/4 cup cooked crumbled bacon for a smoky twist
• 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms for added texture

Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and crispy onions.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute milk with almond or oat milk and use a dairy-free condensed soup.

Instructions

 

Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish.

Prepare the Green Beans

• If using fresh green beans, blanch them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp, then drain and set aside.
• For frozen green beans, thaw and pat dry.

Mix the Sauce

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
• Stir in the shredded cheese if using.

Assemble the Casserole

• Add the green beans to the sauce mixture and toss to coat.
• Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
• Top with 1 cup of the crispy fried onions.

Bake the Casserole

• Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
• Remove from the oven, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of crispy fried onions on top, and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the onions are golden and the casserole is bubbling.

Serve

• Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.
• Enjoy your Green Bean Casserole as a comforting side dish!

Notes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 200-250
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g

Notes/Advice:

• Additions/Subtractions:
  • Add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for added depth of flavor.
  • For extra crunch, mix panko breadcrumbs with the fried onions for the final topping.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the milk slightly or stir in 1 tbsp of flour.

Keyword Green Bean Casserole

Variations:

• Spicy Green Bean Casserole: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
• Cheesy Green Bean Casserole: Add a layer of shredded mozzarella or Parmesan on top of the casserole before baking.
• Vegan Green Bean Casserole: Use plant-based cream of mushroom soup, dairy-free milk, and vegan crispy onions.

Suggestions:

• Serving Ideas: Pair this casserole with roasted turkey, baked ham, or a hearty meatloaf for a complete meal. It’s also great alongside mashed potatoes or stuffing for a holiday feast.
• Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole (without the final topping of crispy onions) up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Add the onions and bake just before serving.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

The Timeless Appeal of Classic Green Bean Casserole

Few dishes bring as much nostalgia to the dinner table as Classic Green Bean Casserole. A staple of holiday feasts, Sunday dinners, and potluck gatherings, this dish has remained a favorite for generations. Its creamy texture, tender green beans, and crispy onion topping create the perfect balance of flavor and crunch.

Originally designed for convenience, this casserole is now a comfort food classic, bringing warmth and familiarity with every bite. Whether served at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy family meal, it’s a dish that never goes out of style.

How to Make the Perfect Green Bean Casserole

While the traditional version is simple, small tweaks can make a big difference in texture and taste.

1. Choosing the Right Green Beans

• Fresh Green Beans: Blanching fresh green beans before baking preserves their bright color and crisp texture.
• Frozen Green Beans: A convenient option that retains more texture than canned. Simply thaw and drain before using.
• Canned Green Beans: A classic choice that softens easily in the sauce, making the casserole extra creamy.

2. Creating a Richer Sauce

• The classic version uses canned cream of mushroom soup, but for a more homemade touch, a scratch-made mushroom cream sauce adds extra depth.
• Stirring in garlic, shallots, or a splash of Worcestershire sauce enhances the umami flavor.
• A touch of cheese (cheddar or Gruyère) can add richness without overpowering the dish.

3. Mastering the Crunchy Topping

• Fried Onions: The signature topping adds crunch and a subtle sweetness.
• Breadcrumbs or Panko: Mixing them with butter and herbs can add extra texture.
• Chopped Nuts (Almonds or Pecans): Provides a slight nuttiness and added crunch.

Creative Twists on the Classic Recipe

Want to give your Classic Green Bean Casserole a unique spin? Try one of these delicious variations:

1. Bacon & Cheese Upgrade

• Add crispy bacon crumbles for a smoky, savory boost.
• Stir in Parmesan or sharp cheddar cheese for extra richness.

2. Spicy Kick

• A dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes adds subtle heat.
• For a bolder twist, mix in chopped jalapeños or spicy pepper jack cheese.

3. Herb-Infused Freshness

• Fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage mixed into the sauce enhances the earthy flavor.
• Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

4. Vegan & Dairy-Free Options

• Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of dairy.
• Swap fried onions for crispy shallots or toasted breadcrumbs for a fully plant-based version.

Best Ways to Serve Green Bean Casserole

While this dish is often enjoyed on its own, it pairs beautifully with a variety of other flavors.

1. Perfect Pairings for a Holiday Feast

• Roast Turkey or Ham: The creamy casserole balances the savory, roasted flavors of holiday meats.
• Mashed Potatoes & Gravy: A classic pairing that rounds out the meal.
• Cranberry Sauce: The tangy sweetness contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture.

2. Everyday Meal Combinations

• Grilled Chicken or Pork Chops: A simple yet satisfying weeknight dinner option.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serve the casserole over grains for a vegetarian-friendly main dish.
• Garlic Bread: A crunchy side to complement the soft, creamy casserole.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Green Bean Casserole is great for leftovers—if there’s any left! Here’s how to store and reheat it without losing texture.

1. Storing Leftovers

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: For long-term storage, freeze for up to a month. However, the crispy topping may soften when thawed.

2. How to Reheat for Best Results

• Oven (Best Method): Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, adding extra crispy onions on top before serving.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium-low heat with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
• Microwave (Quick Option): Heat in short 30-second bursts, stirring between intervals to prevent drying out.

Why Green Bean Casserole is a Must-Have Dish

1. It’s Comfort Food at Its Best – Creamy, crunchy, and full of nostalgic flavors, it’s a dish that feels like home.
2. It’s Simple Yet Elegant – A few humble ingredients create something rich, hearty, and satisfying.
3. It’s a Crowd-Pleaser – Whether for picky eaters or food lovers, this dish always disappears fast at the table.
4. It’s Versatile & Customizable – Easily adapted to different dietary needs while still keeping its classic appeal.

Green Bean Casserole isn’t just a side dish—it’s a tradition, a comfort food classic, and a go-to favorite for any occasion. Whether made in its traditional form or with a creative twist, it remains a beloved part of home-cooked meals everywhere.

Final Thoughts:

And there you have it—Green Bean Casserole that’s creamy, crunchy, and full of nostalgic comfort! This dish is a holiday favorite for a reason, blending tender green beans with a rich sauce and crispy onions for the ultimate side dish. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it as a weeknight treat, this casserole is sure to delight. So grab your ingredients and let’s bake this classic!

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