Green Bean Casserole

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THE ULTIMATE COMFORT FOOD RECIPE

Green Bean Casserole is a timeless side dish that graces holiday tables, family gatherings, and weeknight dinners alike. Known for its creamy texture, savory flavors, and crispy topping, this dish is a crowd favorite. Whether you’re preparing it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a casual meal, this Green Bean Casserole recipe will never disappoint. In this recipe, we’ll walk you through how to make the perfect Green Bean Casserole from scratch, with easy-to-follow instructions and tips for success.

WHAT IS GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE?

Green Bean Casserole is a delicious baked dish made from green beans, creamy mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions. It’s known for its comforting combination of textures and flavors tender green beans, creamy sauce, and a crunchy onion topping. While it has become a staple in many households during the holidays, it’s so easy to make that it can be enjoyed year-round.

INGREDIENTS FOR THE PERFECT GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE

To make a hearty Green Bean Casserole, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together to create this comforting dish. Here’s what you need

• 500g of fresh green beans (or you can substitute with 2 cans of cut green beans, drained)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup (this forms the base of the sauce)
• ½ cup of milk (to thin out the mushroom soup and make the sauce smooth)
• 1 teaspoon of soy sauce (adds depth of flavor)
• 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese (optional, for a creamy, cheesy twist)
• 1 can (6 oz) of crispy fried onions (these provide the signature crunchy topping)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional add-ins

• Garlic powder or onion powder for extra seasoning
• Bacon bits for added flavor and texture
• Sour cream for an extra creamy texture

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS FOR MAKING GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s get started on making the perfect Green Bean Casserole. You’ll have a dish that will wow if you follow these simple procedures!

1. PREPARE THE GREEN BEANS

If you’re using fresh green beans, start by trimming the ends of each bean and cutting them into 1-inch pieces. Blanch the green beans in boiling water for about 5 minutes, then drain them and set aside to cool. This step ensures that the beans are tender but still have a slight crunch.

If you prefer the convenience of canned green beans, simply drain the cans and set the beans aside.

2. MAKE THE CREAMY MUSHROOM SAUCE

Mix the soy sauce, milk, and cream of mushroom soup in a medium-sized mixing bowl.. Stir until the mixture is smooth. For added creaminess, you can mix in a cup of grated cheddar cheese at this stage. This optional addition makes the casserole even richer and more flavorful.

To taste, add salt and pepper to the sauce. For added taste, you can also add a small sprinkle of onion or garlic powder..

3. MIX THE GREEN BEANS WITH THE SAUCE

In a large mixing bowl, add the prepared green beans. Pour the creamy mushroom sauce over the beans and stir gently to coat them evenly. The green beans should be well-covered with the sauce.

4. ASSEMBLE THE CASSEROLE

Transfer the green bean and sauce mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.

Next, sprinkle half of the crispy fried onions over the top of the casserole. These will become golden and crispy as they bake, adding a satisfying crunch to the dish.

5. BAKE THE GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the oven is heated, place the casserole in the center rack and bake for 25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the casserole is heated through.

6. ADD THE FINAL LAYER OF FRIED ONIONS

Take the dish out of the oven after 25 minutes.. Gently sprinkle the remaining fried onions over the top for a crispy, golden finish. Place the casserole back in the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the onions are crispy and browned.

7. SERVE AND ENJOY

Once the casserole is finished baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to serve. Serve the Green Bean Casserole as a delicious side dish alongside your main entrée and savor its creamy, savory, and crunchy flavors!

TIPS FOR THE BEST GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE

• Use fresh green beans: While canned beans work well in a pinch, fresh green beans provide the best flavor and texture. If you go the fresh route, make sure to blanch them first to avoid them being too tough.
• Customize the seasoning: Green Bean Casserole is very versatile when it comes to seasoning. You can add a bit of garlic powder, onion powder, or even fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for added flavor.
• Make it ahead of time: You can prepare the casserole up to a day ahead of time. Simply cover it with foil and refrigerate. On the day you plan to serve it, bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-35 minutes.
• Add cheese for extra creaminess: If you love cheesy casseroles, add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce for a creamy, cheesy twist.
• Make it gluten-free: For a gluten-free version, make sure to use gluten-free crispy fried onions and gluten-free cream of mushroom soup.

WHY GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE IS A HOLIDAY STAPLE

Green Bean Casserole has been a traditional dish on holiday tables for decades, thanks to its comforting flavors and easy preparation. It’s a perfect accompaniment to turkey, ham, or roast chicken and can be made in advance, making it convenient for busy cooks. Its creamy mushroom sauce and crunchy onion topping make it a crowd favorite that never goes out of style.

FINAL THOUGHTS

This Green Bean Casserole recipe is not only easy to make but also absolutely delicious. Whether you’re making it for a holiday celebration or just as a side dish for dinner, it’s guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends. With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and crispy fried onions, this casserole brings comfort and joy to any meal. Give it a try, and watch it become a beloved part of your recipe collection!

By following these steps and tips, you’ll create a Green Bean Casserole that’s as tasty as it is comforting. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a dish that will leave everyone coming back for seconds!