This green bean casserole is a cozy mix of tender green beans, creamy mushroom soup, and crunchy fried onions on top. It’s a classic side dish that everyone loves!
Honestly, I can’t resist that crispy onion layer! It’s like the cherry on top of a delicious sundae. I always save a little extra for myself—I mean, who wouldn’t? 😄
Making this casserole is super simple! Just mix everything together, bake, and enjoy. It’s perfect for dinner gatherings or just a comforting night in.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans give the best texture and flavor. If they’re out of season, canned green beans work well, too. Just make sure to drain them well. I personally love using fresh—the crunch is unbeatable!
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is the base of the creamy sauce. If you’re looking for a healthier version, you can make your own using sautéed mushrooms, milk, and a bit of flour for thickness. Homemade soup can elevate the dish immensely!
Milk: Any milk can work here, from whole to almond milk, if you need a dairy-free option. I often use whole milk for a richer flavor.
Fried Onions: The crispy topping is essential! If you can’t find French fried onions, you can make your own by frying thinly sliced onions in oil until crispy, or use crushed potato chips for an interesting twist.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crunch from Fried Onions?
The secret to achieving that golden, crunchy layer of fried onions is all in timing. Add them at the end of baking to keep them crispy. Here’s how:
- First bake your casserole for 25 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Then, sprinkle the remaining fried onions on top and bake for another 5-10 minutes.
- Keep an eye on it; you want the onions to be nicely browned but not burned!
This way, you’ll have that delicious crunch everyone loves, right at the top. Every bite will be a delight! Enjoy your casserole!
Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces (or 2 cans green beans, drained)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp soy sauce (optional)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 1/3 cups French fried onions (divided)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 35-40 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a delicious green bean casserole ready in about 50 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s always good to have the oven ready while you prepare your casserole!
2. Prepare the Green Beans:
If using fresh green beans, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the beans for about 5 minutes until they’re tender-crisp. Drain and set aside. If you’re using canned green beans, just drain and rinse them—so easy!
3. Mix the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce (if you’re using it), and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This creamy mixture will be the heart of your casserole!
4. Combine with Green Beans:
Now, add the green beans to the soup mixture along with 2/3 cup of the French fried onions. Gently stir until the green beans are well-coated with that creamy goodness.
5. Transfer to Casserole Dish:
Pour the mixture into a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish and spread it out evenly. This will help it cook up nicely.
6. First Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes until it’s hot and bubbling. You’ll know it’s ready when you see a little steam rising!
7. Add the Crunch:
Carefully take the casserole out of the oven and sprinkle the remaining French fried onions on top. They provide that irresistible crunch!
8. Final Bake:
Put the casserole back in the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the onion topping is golden brown and crispy. Just keep an eye on it so you don’t burn those delicious onions!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes before serving. This creamy, flavorful green bean casserole is perfect for any gathering or cozy dinner! Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans! Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the casserole for the best texture. You might want to cook them for a minute or two to ensure they are tender before mixing.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
You can easily make this casserole dairy-free by substituting the condensed cream of mushroom soup with a dairy-free version, and using non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. Just check the labels to ensure they fit your dietary needs!
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it in the fridge before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, remove the wrap and follow the baking instructions. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! You can get creative by adding cooked mushrooms, shredded cheese, or even crispy bacon for more flavor. Just remember to adjust the quantities of other ingredients if needed, so it all fits in the casserole dish!
