Delicious & Easy Green Bean Casserole Recipe

Looking for a classic holiday casserole that will wow your guests? The ultimate green bean casserole is a hit. It’s a mix of crispy textures and rich flavors in every bite. With a 4.94 rating from 139 votes, it’s a side dish that turns simple ingredients into something amazing.

Starting your green bean casserole journey is easy. You’ll need fresh ingredients and a simple prep method. This casserole is ready in just 50 minutes. It’s great for busy cooks who want to make a memorable meal.

Key Takeaways

  • Quick and easy 50-minute preparation time
  • Perfect for holiday gatherings and family dinners
  • Highly rated recipe with nearly 5-star reviews
  • Versatile side dish that appeals to all ages
  • Uses simple, accessible ingredients
  • Can be prepared in advance

The Perfect Holiday Side Dish: Green Bean Casserole History

Green bean casserole is a beloved Thanksgiving side dish with a tasty story. It was created in 1955 by Dorcas Reilly, a Campbell’s Soup Company home economist. This vegetable casserole quickly became a favorite at holiday meals across the United States.

  • In 2004, Green Bean Casserole was served in 20 million households during Thanksgiving
  • 44% of survey respondents considered it their favorite vegetable side dish
  • The National Inventors Hall of Fame inducted the recipe in 2002
  • Campbell’s online recipe gets 4 million views every Thanksgiving Day

What makes this dish special is its wide appeal. Green bean casserole transcends ethnic, socioeconomic, and religious boundaries. It has become a true American culinary tradition.

“The most popular recipe ever developed in our kitchens” – Campbell’s Soup Company

Today, this classic dish is still a holiday table favorite. About 50% of cream of mushroom soup sales happen between November and January. This shows its lasting popularity as a quintessential Thanksgiving side dish.

Making the perfect green bean casserole needs the right ingredients. These ingredients add flavor and texture to this classic dish. Knowing what to use will make your side dish a hit with everyone.

Cream of Mushroom Soup Selection

Choosing the right cream of mushroom soup is key. Look for high-quality, condensed soups for a rich base. Campbell’s is a top choice for its great flavor and texture that pairs well with green beans.

  • Select condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • Check for low-sodium options if desired
  • Avoid watery or thin soup varieties

Fresh vs Canned Green Beans

Fresh green beans add color and crunch, but canned beans are convenient and reliable. For a classic casserole, most people choose canned cut green beans. They cook evenly and are easy to use.

Green Bean TypeProsCons
Fresh Green BeansBetter texture, more nutrientsRequires more prep time
Canned Green BeansConvenient, consistentSlightly softer texture

Choosing the Right French Fried Onions

French fried onions make your casserole special. They add a crispy, golden topping that makes the dish stand out. French’s Crispy Fried Onions are the best choice for their perfect crunch and flavor.

“The crispy onion topping is what transforms a simple casserole into a memorable side dish.” – Culinary Expert

For the best taste, mix 2/3 cup of french fried onions into the casserole. Then, sprinkle another 2/3 cup on top before baking.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

To make a tasty green bean casserole, you need some key kitchen tools. Get your equipment ready before you start. The right casserole dish and baking pan are crucial for a great side dish.

  • 9×13-inch casserole dish (primary baking pan)
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Non-stick cooking spray
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Sharp kitchen knife
  • Cutting board

Pro tip: For a smaller group, halve the recipe. Use a 2-quart or 8-inch square baking pan. This lets you adjust the dish size as needed.

“The right tools transform cooking from a chore to a delightful experience.” – Culinary Experts

Choose a casserole dish that heats evenly and has high sides. Ceramic or glass pans are best for green bean casseroles. They heat well and look good when served.

Other tools can make cooking easier:

  1. Garlic press
  2. Whisk
  3. Rubber spatula
  4. Kitchen timer

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions

Making the perfect green bean casserole is simpler than you think. This classic dish is a hit at holiday meals. It combines simple ingredients with great flavors. Let’s go through the steps to make it.

Preparing the Green Beans

Begin by picking the best green beans. Here’s how to prepare them:

  • Choose 24 ounces of fresh green beans
  • Trim the ends and cut beans into 2-inch pieces
  • Blanch beans in boiling water for exactly 3 minutes
  • Then, put them in an ice bath to stop cooking

Mixing the Casserole Base

The creamy base is key for a tasty casserole. Here’s how to make it:

  • Sauté 8 ounces of baby bella mushrooms for 4 minutes
  • Mix ½ cup unsweetened coconut milk and 1 cup chicken broth
  • Thicken with 2 tablespoons of cassava flour
  • Combine sauce with the green beans

Adding the Crispy Onion Topping

The crispy onion topping makes the casserole amazing:

  • Prepare 1¼ cups of crispy onions
  • Spread half the onions on the casserole
  • Top with the rest of the crispy onions
  • Bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes
“The secret to a perfect green bean casserole is in the details of preparation and love you put into each step.”

Pro tip: You can make this casserole up to two days ahead. It’s great for holiday meals. For dietary needs, use vegan butter and gluten-free french onions to make it dairy-free or gluten-free.

Expert Tips for Perfect Consistency

Making the ultimate holiday casserole is more than just a recipe. It’s about mastering a few expert techniques. These can turn your dish from good to amazing.

“The secret to an amazing green bean casserole is all in the details.” – Professional Chef

Here are some tips from pros to get your green bean casserole just right:

  • Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow flavors to settle
  • Adjust crispy onion topping quantity based on personal preference
  • Mix ingredients directly in the baking dish to minimize cleanup

Consistency is key in making your holiday casserole. Focus on these important points:

TechniqueImpact on Casserole
Sauce ThicknessAdd flour or butter to adjust consistency
Bean TextureCook 8 minutes for al dente, 20 minutes for tender
Onion CrispinessFry for exactly 4 minutes until golden

For the most delectable green bean casserole, try these pro tips:

  1. Use fresh ingredients whenever possible
  2. Sauté mushrooms until they release their liquid (about 10 minutes)
  3. Add crispy onions in the last 5 minutes of baking

A great green bean casserole balances flavors and textures. With these expert techniques, you’ll make a holiday side dish that wows your guests.

Make-Ahead and Storage Options

Planning ahead makes your holiday casserole easy. You can prepare your green bean casserole early. This lets you enjoy more time with family during festive gatherings.

Refrigeration Guidelines

Your tasty holiday casserole can be made up to 48 hours before serving. Here are some important storage tips:

  • Store in an airtight container
  • Keep refrigerated at 40°F or below
  • Do not add crispy onion topping until just before baking

Freezing Instructions

Freezing your casserole recipe keeps it delicious for later:

  • Assemble casserole without the crispy topping
  • Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil
  • Freeze for up to 3 months
  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking

Reheating Methods

Bring back your leftover holiday casserole with these reheating methods:

MethodTemperatureTime
Oven350°F15-20 minutes
MicrowaveMedium2-3 minutes
Pro tip: Always cover the casserole when reheating to prevent drying out!

Follow these storage and reheating tips. Your green bean casserole will taste as good as when it was first made.

Nutritional Information and Health Benefits

Your favorite green bean casserole is not just tasty—it’s also good for you. It’s full of nutrients that help keep you healthy. This classic dish is more than just a flavor hit; it’s a wellness booster.

Green beans in your casserole are nutritional wonders. A single cup gives you big health benefits:

  • Only 31 calories per cup
  • Contains 25% of daily vitamin C
  • Provides 1 gram of protein
  • Offers 15% of recommended vitamin A
  • Includes 1 gram of dietary fiber

A typical green bean casserole has about:

  • 230-240 calories per serving
  • 16 grams total fat
  • 6 grams saturated fat
  • 20 grams carbohydrates
  • 2-3 grams protein

Pro tip: Pick fresh or flash-frozen green beans for the best nutrition. Avoid canned beans because they can be high in sodium. Choose low-sodium options instead.

“Eating green beans supports heart health, boosts immune function, and provides essential vitamins and minerals” – Nutrition Experts

Your green bean casserole is more than a side dish. It’s a nutrient-packed addition to your meal. It helps with bone health, blood pressure, and gives you important minerals like calcium and magnesium.

Serving Suggestions and Portion Sizes

Your green bean casserole is a star of Thanksgiving. It’s a holiday casserole that shines at any festive meal. It’s versatile and can be the main attraction.

Recommended Serving Temperature

Serve your green bean casserole hot for the best taste. Let it cool for 10 minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes serving easier.

  • Ideal serving temperature: 160-165°F
  • Resting time after baking: 10 minutes
  • Recommended serving method: Direct from baking dish

Portion and Pairing Recommendations

This delightful side dish serves 6-8 people well. It goes great with turkey or glazed ham.

Serving SizeRecommended Pairings
1/2 cup per personRoast Turkey
6-8 total servingsHoney Glazed Ham
9×13 inch panRoasted Chicken

Pro tip: Keep your holiday casserole warm by covering it loosely with aluminum foil if not serving immediately.

Recipe Variations and Customizations

Creating a unique green bean casserole lets you explore exciting culinary variations. You can turn this classic dish into something special. Your creativity can make it truly unique.

  • Add crispy bacon bits for extra flavor and crunch
  • Experiment with different cheese options like white cheddar or gruyère
  • Replace cream of mushroom soup with homemade cream sauce
  • Incorporate roasted garlic or caramelized onions

When adapting your green bean casserole, consider these practical tips:

  1. Adjust crispy onion topping quantity to suit your preference
  2. Use fresh green beans for enhanced texture and flavor
  3. Explore alternative cream soup varieties
“Creativity in cooking transforms good recipes into memorable meals” – Professional Chef

Pro tip: For smaller gatherings, halve the recipe and use an 8-inch square baking dish to maintain perfect proportions.

VariationIngredient SwapFlavor Profile
Cheesy VersionAdd white cheddar cheeseRich, tangy
Smoky OptionInclude crispy bacon piecesSavory, robust
Herb-InfusedMix in fresh thyme or rosemaryAromatic, earthy

Remember, the key to an outstanding green bean casserole is balancing flavors. It should keep its classic comfort food appeal.

Common Cooking Mistakes to Avoid

Making a tasty green bean casserole needs careful attention. Steer clear of common mistakes to make your dish stand out.

  • Moisture Management: Make sure to drain your green beans well. Too much water can make the casserole soggy.
  • Temperature Control: Bake at 400°F or less to avoid drying out the casserole.
  • Topping Timing: Sprinkle crispy onions or bread crumbs in the last 5-10 minutes to keep them crunchy.

For your casserole, choose frozen French-cut green beans. They hold their texture and soak up sauce better than canned beans.

“The secret to a perfect green bean casserole is in the details.” – Professional Chef

Canned green beans can be high in sodium. Use fresh or frozen beans to keep salt levels down while keeping flavor up.

MistakeSolution
Overcooking Green BeansBlanch for 2-3 minutes, avoid mushy texture
Soggy ToppingsAdd crispy onions in final 5 minutes of baking
Watery ConsistencyUse thickening agent like roux or drain vegetables completely

Pro tip: Add fresh sliced mushrooms or a thickening agent to boost your green bean casserole’s taste and texture.

Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks

Making an easy green bean casserole doesn’t have to take a lot of time. With a few smart tips, you can make this quick side dish without any hassle. It’s perfect for your busy schedule.

“Cooking smart is about working efficiently, not just working hard.” – Professional Chef

Here are key time-saving tips for your green bean casserole:

  • Use pre-cut or frozen green beans to cut down on chopping time
  • Choose canned cream of mushroom soup for quick base preparation
  • Mix ingredients in the baking dish to lessen cleanup
  • Make the casserole ahead of time and chill until baking

Choosing the right ingredients can save a lot of prep time. Pick ready-to-use items that keep the casserole’s great taste.

TechniqueTime Saved
Frozen Green Beans15-20 minutes
Canned Soup Base10-12 minutes
Pre-Chopped Ingredients10-15 minutes

Pro tip: Batch prepare your casserole on weekends for quick meals during busy weekdays.

Conclusion

Your journey through the world of green bean casserole shows a beloved holiday side dish. It has been around since 1955, created by Dorcas Reilly at Campbell’s. This dish is a big part of American holiday meals, especially at Thanksgiving and Christmas.

The green bean casserole is easy to make, perfect for cooks of all levels. You only need a few ingredients like canned green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and crispy fried onions. It’s a comforting side that brings families together.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or new to the kitchen, this recipe is easy and fun. You can make it your own, prepare it ahead of time, and enjoy its creamy and crispy parts. It’s not just a side dish. It’s a celebration of family, flavor, and the joy of cooking that brings people together during the holidays.

FAQ

How far in advance can I prepare green bean casserole?

You can make the casserole 24-48 hours ahead. Just keep it in the fridge. Add the crispy fried onion topping just before baking for crunch.

Can I freeze green bean casserole?

Yes, freeze it for up to 3 months. Assemble without the onion topping, cover, and freeze. Thaw it in the fridge before baking.

How long can I keep leftover green bean casserole?

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to four days. Use an airtight container for the best taste.

What are the key ingredients for green bean casserole?

You’ll need Campbell’s® Cream of Mushroom Soup, canned green beans, milk, and French’s Crispy Fried Onions. Use 3 cans of soup, 3 cans of green beans, and 2 containers of onions.

Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?

Fresh green beans work too. Just trim, blanch, and drain them before adding to the casserole.

What size baking dish should I use?

Use a 9×13-inch dish for the full recipe. For a smaller batch, halve the ingredients and use a 2-quart or 8-inch square dish.

How many calories are in a serving of green bean casserole?

One serving has about 231-232 calories. It includes 16g total fat, 6g saturated fat, and 20g carbs.

What temperature and how long should I bake the casserole?

Bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes. It’s ready when the sides are golden and bubbly.

Can I customize the green bean casserole recipe?

Absolutely! You can change the onion amount, try different soups, or add your favorite spices.

How should I serve green bean casserole?

Serve hot, letting it cool for 10 minutes. It’s great with turkey or ham at holidays.

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