Green bean casserole is a comforting classic that has graced many holiday tables and family dinners. This versatile dish combines tender green beans with creamy mushroom soup, topped with crispy onions for that perfect crunch. Whether you’re preparing a traditional recipe or trying innovative variations, green bean casserole remains a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this delicious dish!
Ingredients
– 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cups mushroom soup (canned or homemade)
– 1 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 cup crispy fried onions
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated cheese for topping
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/6 of the recipe):
– Calories: 220
– Protein: 5g
– Carbohydrates: 25g
– Fat: 10g
– Fiber: 4g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and blanch the green beans for 5 minutes.
3. Drain and immediately transfer the beans to ice water to stop the cooking process.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the blanched green beans to the soup mixture, stirring until well coated.
6. Transfer the mixture to a greased 2-quart baking dish.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
8. Remove from the oven and sprinkle 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 if you’re in a pinch. Additionally, for a lighter version, use low-fat mushroom soup and milk. For a vegan option, choose plant-based cream or soup alternatives.
Serving and Pairings
Green bean casserole pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, ham, or a hearty beef roast. Serve it alongside mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce for a complete meal that evokes the spirit of family gatherings.
Storage and Reheating
To store leftover casserole, place it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months, but the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Overcooking the green beans can make them mushy.
– Not seasoning the mixture can lead to blandness.
– Using low-quality canned soup may affect flavor.
– Forgetting to add the crispy onions until too late can result in sogginess.
– Baking at too high a temperature can burn the topping.
Helpful Tips
1. Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
2. Experiment with different toppings like cheese or breadcrumbs.
3. For added flavor, sauté some onions and garlic before mixing.
4. If you prefer a thicker casserole, add a tablespoon of flour to the soup mixture.
5. Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving for better slicing.
FAQs
Can I make green bean casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it without the crispy onions, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving, adding the onions during the last few minutes.
What can I use instead of mushroom soup?
You can make a homemade cream sauce using butter, flour, broth, and spices as a substitute for mushroom soup.
Is green bean casserole healthy?
While it can be higher in calories due to creamy ingredients, using lighter alternatives can make it healthier without sacrificing flavor.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Consider adding mushrooms, carrots, or even corn for a twist on the classic recipe.
How do I prevent the casserole from being watery?
Make sure to drain the green beans well and use a thicker soup base. You can also add a bit of cornstarch to thicken the mixture.
Conclusion
Green bean casserole is not just a side dish; it’s a cherished part of many family traditions. With its creamy texture and crispy topping, this recipe can easily be adapted to suit your taste. Whether for a holiday feast or a simple family dinner, this dish will surely impress your guests and become a staple in your kitchen.
Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh green beans trimmed
- 2 cups mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 cup crispy fried onions
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: grated cheese for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and blanch the green beans for 5 minutes.
- Drain and immediately transfer the beans to ice water to stop the cooking process.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the blanched green beans to the soup mixture, stirring until well coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 2-quart baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle 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.
