Green bean casserole is a beloved classic, especially during the holiday season. This dish marries tender green beans with a rich, creamy mushroom sauce, topped with crunchy fried onions. It’s not just a side; it’s a comforting, nostalgic experience that brings family and friends together. This recipe is easy to follow and perfect for any occasion, ensuring your table is filled with flavor and warmth.
Ingredients
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cups cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 ½ cups crispy fried onions
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 8 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
For one serving (about 1 cup), the nutritional value is approximately:
– Calories: 220
– Protein: 5g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Dietary Fiber: 4g
– Sugars: 2g
– Fat: 10g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Blanch the green beans in boiling water for 5 minutes, then drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and soy sauce if using.
4. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until well mixed.
5. Add the blanched green beans to the soup mixture and stir until evenly coated.
6. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
8. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the crispy fried onions on top.
9. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the onions are golden brown.
10. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute fresh green beans with frozen ones, but be sure to thaw and drain them well. For a lighter version, use low-fat cream of mushroom soup and reduced-fat cheese. You can also use homemade mushroom sauce for a fresher taste.
Serving and Pairings
This green bean casserole pairs perfectly with roasted turkey, ham, or grilled chicken. It also complements mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce, making it an ideal addition to holiday feasts.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. The casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just be sure to cover it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overcook the green beans during blanching; they should remain crisp.
– Avoid using low-quality canned soup, as it affects the overall flavor.
– Make sure to mix the sauce thoroughly to prevent clumping.
– Don’t skip the crispy onions; they are essential for texture.
– Ensure your casserole dish is properly greased to prevent sticking.
Helpful Tips
– For added flavor, sauté some mushrooms and onions to mix into the casserole.
– Consider adding chopped bacon for a savory twist.
– Use fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for garnish.
– Try different cheese varieties for a unique taste.
FAQs
Can I make green bean casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it and refrigerate without baking. Bake it right before serving.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
You can use homemade mushroom sauce or a different cream soup like cream of chicken or celery for a variation.
Is green bean casserole gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free fried onions and ensure the cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free.
Can I add meat to green bean casserole?
Absolutely! Adding cooked chicken or bacon can enhance the dish’s flavor and make it more filling.
How do I prevent the topping from getting soggy?
To keep the topping crispy, add fried onions during the last part of baking, and ensure the casserole is not covered.
Conclusion
This best green bean casserole recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for any gathering. With its creamy sauce and crispy topping, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this comforting dish that beautifully complements your holiday meals or weeknight dinners.
Best Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans trimmed
- 2 cups cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups crispy fried onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Blanch the green beans in boiling water for 5 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and soy sauce if using.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until well mixed.
- Add the blanched green beans to the soup mixture and stir until evenly coated.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle the crispy fried onions on top.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the onions are golden brown.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
