When it comes to comfort food that sparks nostalgia, green bean casserole is a top contender. This dish, a staple at countless holiday dinners, strikes the perfect balance between creamy, crunchy, and savory. Originating in the 1950s, this casserole became a household favorite thanks to its simplicity and incredible flavor. Whether you’re preparing it for Thanksgiving, a potluck, or just because you’re craving some veggie-packed goodness, this dish is a winner every time.Let’s dive into everything you need to know to whip up the perfect green bean casserole, from shopping list to serving suggestions!
Ingredients: Your Green Bean Casserole Shopping List
Here’s everything you’ll need to make a classic green bean casserole (serves 6-8):
- Fresh or frozen green beans – 1 ½ pounds (trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces if fresh; thawed if frozen)
- Cream of mushroom soup – 2 cans (10.5 oz each; Campbell’s is the classic, but feel free to use your favorite brand or homemade version)
- Milk – ¾ cup (whole milk works best, but you can substitute with plant-based milk for a dairy-free option)
- Soy sauce – 1 teaspoon (adds a punch of umami)
- Ground black pepper – ½ teaspoon
- Crispy fried onions – 1 ½ cups (French’s is the go-to, but any brand works)
- Optional: Shredded cheddar cheese – ½ cup (for extra creaminess)
Preparation Steps: Barney-Style Breakdown
- Prep the green beans.
- If using fresh green beans, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and blanch them for 2-3 minutes. Immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process, then drain.
- If using frozen green beans, ensure they’re thawed and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
- Preheat your oven.
- Set it to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready to go when you are.
- Prepare your casserole dish.
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish (or similar size) with butter or non-stick spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Cooking/Baking Instructions
- Mix the creamy base.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and well blended.
- Assemble the casserole.
- Add the green beans to the soup mixture and stir until the beans are coated evenly. Pour this mixture into your prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
- Top with crispy onions.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of the crispy fried onions over the top of the casserole (reserve the remaining ½ cup for later).
- Bake it!
- Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for 25 minutes.
- Add the finishing crunch.
- After 25 minutes, sprinkle the reserved ½ cup of crispy fried onions (and shredded cheese, if using) over the top. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the onions are golden and the casserole is bubbling.
- Cool slightly before serving.
- Let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to plate.
Serving Suggestions
Green bean casserole pairs beautifully with just about any main course, but it truly shines alongside a hearty protein like roasted turkey, glazed ham, or grilled chicken. Here are a few serving ideas to elevate your dish:
- Garnish: Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and a touch of freshness.
- Sides: Serve with mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal.
For a fun twist, consider serving individual portions in ramekins for a fancy touch.
Additional Tips and Tweaks
Want to take your green bean casserole to the next level? Try these ideas:
- Make it from scratch: Swap the canned soup for a homemade cream sauce. Simply sauté mushrooms in butter, then stir in heavy cream, chicken/vegetable broth, and a little flour to thicken.
- Boost the umami: Add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of garlic powder to the soup mixture for extra depth.
- Make it vegetarian/vegan: Use a dairy-free mushroom soup (or make your own), plant-based milk, and crispy fried onions that don’t contain dairy (many brands are vegan-friendly).
- Add a crunch upgrade: Mix crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs with the crispy onions for a more complex topping.
- Experiment with flavors: Toss in cooked bacon bits, sautéed garlic, or even a dash of hot sauce for a unique spin!
Wrap-Up: Why You’ll Love This Green Bean Casserole
Green bean casserole is a timeless dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Its creamy texture, savory green beans, and crispy onion topping make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable to suit your taste or dietary needs.Fun fact: The dish was invented by Dorcas Reilly in 1955 while working in the Campbell’s Soup test kitchen. Her goal was to create a simple, cost-effective recipe with ingredients most people already had at home. And, boy, did she succeed—this casserole has been beloved for nearly seven decades!So, go ahead and try it out. Whether it’s your first time making green bean casserole or you’re revisiting an old favorite, this dish is sure to bring comfort, joy, and maybe even a few “wow” moments around the table!
