Green Bean Casserole is a beloved dish that has become a staple at holiday dinners, family gatherings, and potlucks. This creamy casserole features tender green beans smothered in a savory mushroom sauce, topped with crispy fried onions. It’s the perfect combination of rich flavors and textures, making it a comfort food favorite that never goes out of style. Whether you’re serving it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a Sunday dinner, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
- Green beans: 4 cups (fresh or frozen), blanched or thawed, to provide the base of the casserole.
- Cream of mushroom soup: 1 can (10.5 oz), for the creamy sauce.
- Milk: 1/2 cup, to thin the sauce and add richness.
- Soy sauce: 1 tablespoon, for depth of flavor.
- Garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon, for aromatic seasoning.
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, to taste.
- Fried onions: 1 cup (store-bought or homemade), for topping.
- Cheddar cheese: 1/2 cup, shredded (optional), for a cheesy twist.
Instructions
Prepare the Green Beans:
- Blanch the Green Beans:
If using fresh green beans, trim the ends and blanch them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside. If using frozen green beans, thaw them according to package directions.
Make the Creamy Mushroom Sauce:
- Combine the Soup and Milk:
In a medium saucepan, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Stir over medium heat until the mixture is smooth and heated through. - Season the Sauce:
Add the soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper to the soup mixture. Stir well to combine and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Assemble the Casserole:
- Mix the Green Beans and Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched green beans and the creamy mushroom sauce. Stir until the green beans are fully coated. - Bake the Casserole:
Transfer the green bean mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, until the casserole is bubbling and hot.
Add the Topping:
- Top with Fried Onions:
Remove the casserole from the oven, sprinkle the fried onions over the top, and return the dish to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the onions are golden and crispy.
Serve:
- Serve Hot:
Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this creamy, crunchy, and comforting dish!
Tips for Success:
- Fresh vs. Frozen Green Beans: Fresh green beans offer a crisper texture, but frozen green beans are just as tasty and convenient.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just add the fried onions during the last few minutes of baking to keep them crispy.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, ensure the cream of mushroom soup is free from meat-based broth or use a plant-based soup alternative.
- Add Cheese: For a cheesy twist, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Green Bean Casserole is a perfect side dish for any gathering or family meal. It’s simple, creamy, and packed with flavor that everyone will enjoy. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or add your own twist, this dish is sure to be a hit every time.
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