Name: Irresistible Green Bean Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; ½ cup whole milk; 1 cup fried onions (plus extra for topping); ½ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp garlic powder

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The aroma of green bean casserole wafts through the air, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Creamy, savory goodness topped with crispy fried onions creates a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate.

Every family gathering brings this classic dish to life, evoking memories of laughter and shared stories. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a cozy Sunday dinner, the anticipation of that first bite is enough to make anyone’s mouth water.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This green bean casserole offers a delightful blend of creamy and crunchy textures, making it irresistible
You can whip it up in no time, perfect for busy holidays
Its vibrant colors will brighten any table setting, and you can easily adapt it to suit dietary preferences

I recall the look on Aunt Mildred’s face when she took her first bite and exclaimed it was better than her famous turkey.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Fresh Green Beans: Choose vibrant green beans that are firm and crisp for the best texture and flavor.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Use a good-quality cream of mushroom soup for that rich, creamy base everyone loves.
Fried Onions: Opt for crunchy fried onions; they provide the perfect topping for added crunch and flavor.
Milk: Whole milk works best here, adding creaminess without overpowering the other flavors.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds warmth and depth to balance the creaminess of the dish.
Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder enhances flavors without overwhelming the casserole’s delicate balance.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to create a warm environment for baking this delicious casserole. Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray.

Prepare the green beans: Rinse fresh green beans under cold water and trim off the ends. Blanch them in boiling water for about 3-4 minutes until they’re bright green but still crisp.

Mix the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until well blended for that perfect creamy texture everyone loves.

Combine ingredients: Add blanched green beans to the soup mixture and gently fold them together until all beans are coated evenly. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Top with fried onions: Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle an even layer of fried onions on top; they will become golden brown and extra crispy while baking.

Bake: Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. The bubbling sounds are music to your ears!

Let it cool: Once you remove it from the oven, allow your green bean casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps set everything perfectly for that first unforgettable scoop!

You Must Know

This classic green bean casserole is a holiday staple; its creamy texture and crunchy topping will make your guests drool
The comforting aroma and vibrant colors add warmth to any dinner table, making it the perfect side dish for festive gatherings

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by prepping the green beans and cooking them just until tender. Sauté onions in butter while you mix the creamy sauce. Combine everything in a baking dish, top with crispy fried onions, then bake to perfection.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap regular green beans for fresh or even frozen ones. Add mushrooms for an earthy flavor or some cheddar cheese for extra creaminess. A sprinkle of garlic powder can also enhance that delicious comfort food vibe.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes, ensuring the crispy topping stays crunchy.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh green beans for a crispier texture compared to canned ones
Ensure they are blanched before adding to the mix
Avoid overcooking to keep them vibrant and bright!
Use homemade cream of mushroom soup for a richer flavor boost in your casserole

The first time I made this green bean casserole, my family raved about how it reminded them of Grandma’s Thanksgiving dinners. It felt amazing to carry on that tradition!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use frozen green beans for this recipe?

Yes, frozen green beans work well; just thaw and pat them dry before using.

What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

You can use a homemade white sauce or any cream soup you prefer.

How long does it take to bake the casserole?

Bake the casserole at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.