This Green Bean Casserole is a wonderful mix of tender green beans, creamy soup, and crispy fried onions. It’s warm, comforting, and oh-so-delicious!
Honestly, I love how easy it is to whip up! Just mix, bake, and enjoy with family. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself sneaking more than one helping! 😄
Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are the star here for that perfect crispness. If fresh isn’t available, frozen green beans work just fine. They’re convenient and save prep time.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess and a lovely flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier twist, consider using cream of chicken or a homemade white sauce. If you’re vegan or gluten-free, look for substitutes that fit those needs!
Crispy Fried Onions: These are essential for that crunchy topping. If you can’t find them, you could use crushed potato chips or make your own crispy onions by frying sliced onions in oil until golden.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Green Beans?
Getting those beans just right is key! Remember, overcooking can lead to a mushy casserole. Here’s how to do it:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook fresh green beans for about 5 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Quickly transfer them to ice water to halt cooking, then drain. This keeps them vibrant and crunchy!
If using frozen beans, just thaw and skip the boiling. The texture will still hold up wonderfully in the casserole.
Delicious Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces (or 4 cups frozen green beans, thawed)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/3 cups crispy fried onions (divided, about 2/3 cup for mixing and 2/3 cup for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Green Bean Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and 30–35 minutes to cook. With everything combined, you’ll have a warm, comforting dish ready in less than an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.
2. Prepare the Green Beans:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add in the fresh green beans. Cook them for about 5 minutes until they’re tender-crisp. Don’t worry if you’re using frozen beans; just thaw them and skip this boiling step!
After boiling, quickly drain the beans, then transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking. Drain again to ensure they’re dry.
3. Mix the Casserole Base:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Combine Everything:
Now, add the cooked (or thawed) green beans and 2/3 cup of the crispy fried onions to the creamy soup mixture. Gently fold the beans in until they are well coated.
5. Bake the Casserole:
Pour the green bean mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish or any similar casserole dish. Spread it evenly. Bake uncovered for about 25 minutes, or until it’s hot and bubbling around the edges.
6. Add the Crunchy Topping:
Once it’s hot, take it out of the oven and sprinkle the remaining 2/3 cup of crispy fried onions over the top. This will give your casserole that delightful crunch!
7. Final Bake:
Put it back in the oven for another 5-10 minutes, baking until the onions are golden brown. Now, it’s smelling irresistible!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
After taking it out from the oven, let the casserole sit for a few minutes. This allows it to set slightly and cool down. Serve warm, and watch everyone come back for seconds!
Enjoy your delicious, creamy green bean casserole with that perfect crunchy onion topping! 🥳
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen green beans, just be sure to thaw them before mixing with the other ingredients. There’s no need to boil them first, which saves you time!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step in advance! Just cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature, then follow the baking instructions.
How Should Leftovers Be Stored?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, adding a sprinkle of fresh crispy onions if you have some!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes, you can! For a vegan version, use a plant-based cream of mushroom soup and substitute the milk with almond or soy milk. Look for vegan-friendly crispy fried onions as well!
