This green bean casserole is a cozy dish made with crispy green beans, creamy mushroom soup, and crunchy fried onions. It’s a perfect blend of flavors and textures!
It’s hard to resist a big scoop of this casserole at dinner. I love how it brings everyone to the table, ready for some comforting goodness. Plus, it’s super easy to make! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are best for a nice crunch. If you’re in a hurry, you can use frozen green beans. Just thaw them before using. Canned green beans work too, but they may be softer.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This gives creaminess to the casserole. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try a homemade version or swap it with cream of chicken soup. Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist.
Milk: Regular milk is perfect, but you can use almond milk or soy milk for a dairy-free version. Just be sure it’s unsweetened to avoid altering the flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a fantastic flavor, but feel free to try mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese. If you’re avoiding dairy, you can use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
French Fried Onions: These add crunch! If you prefer a healthier option, try using crushed cornflakes mixed with a little garlic powder. You can also make your own crispy onions if you have the time.
How Do I Blanch Green Beans Properly?
Blanching is essential to keep your green beans vibrant and tender but still crisp. Here’s how to do it right:
- Boil a large pot of salted water. This helps season the beans.
- Once boiling, add the trimmed green beans and cook for 4-5 minutes. They should be bright green and slightly tender.
- Prepare an ice bath by filling a bowl with cold water and ice. This will stop the cooking process.
- Once the green beans are done boiling, quickly transfer them to the ice bath using a slotted spoon. Let them sit in the cold water for a few minutes before draining.
This technique keeps the beans crisp and colorful in your casserole! You’ll love the results.
Best Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and blanched
- 10.5 oz can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 1/3 cups French fried onions (divided)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for greasing casserole dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes to prep the ingredients, and then another 35-40 minutes for baking. Total time is roughly 50 minutes, including both preparing and cooking. Perfect for a cozy family dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). If using butter, lightly grease a 2-quart casserole dish. This will help prevent the casserole from sticking!
2. Blanch the Green Beans:
Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a generous amount of salt, then add your trimmed green beans. Boil them for about 4-5 minutes until they are bright green and just tender. Once they’re done, drain the green beans and set them aside.
3. Mix the Sauce:
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper. Stir it well until everything is mixed together nicely.
4. Combine and Coat:
Add the blanched green beans and 2/3 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the soup mixture. Gently mix until the green beans are thoroughly coated with the sauce.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the green bean mixture into your prepared casserole dish. Spread it out evenly, so everything cooks nicely.
6. Add Fried Onions:
Sprinkle 2/3 cup of French fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole. This is what gives it that delightful crunch!
7. Bake the Casserole:
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until it’s nice and hot and bubbling.
8. Final Touches:
After 25 minutes, take the casserole out and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and French fried onions on top. Return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and the onions are golden brown.
9. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help it set a bit.
Enjoy your wonderfully creamy green bean casserole with the family or at your next gathering! It’s sure to be a hit! 🍴
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the frozen green beans beforehand. You can quickly thaw them by placing the beans in a bowl of cold water for about 30 minutes. Then, proceed with the recipe as directed!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Assemble everything in the dish but skip the baking. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use cream of chicken soup or even make a homemade version using sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and a bit of cream or broth. There are also dairy-free versions available if you’re avoiding dairy!