Classic Green Bean Casserole

This classic Green Bean Casserole is a staple for many family dinners, thanks to its rich, creamy texture and crispy topping. Made with simple ingredients like creamy mushroom soup, green beans, and crunchy French fried onions, it’s an easy and delicious side dish that can be prepared quickly. Whether you’re cooking for a small gathering or a big meal, this casserole will be a hit with everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 20 minutes of total cook time, this dish comes together in a flash, making it perfect for busy meal preparations.

• Family Favorite: It’s a beloved side dish that everyone at the table will enjoy, from kids to adults.

• Versatile: Whether you use fresh, frozen, or canned green beans, this casserole is adaptable to whatever you have on hand.

• Crispy Topping: The golden, crispy French fried onions add the perfect texture and flavor contrast to the creamy green bean filling.

• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the ingredients for dietary preferences or available items, such as using reduced-sodium products.

Ingredients

• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup

• ½ cup milk

• 1 tsp soy sauce

• 4 cups green beans (either fresh, canned, or frozen)

• 1 ⅓ cups crispy French fried onions, divided

• ¼ tsp pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven or air fryer to 350°F.

2. If using fresh green beans, clean, cut, and blanch them in boiling water for 2 minutes. If using canned beans, simply drain them in a colander.

3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and soy sauce. Stir well until smooth and no lumps remain.

4. Stir in the green beans and ⅔ cup of the French fried onions. Add pepper to taste and mix everything well.

5. Pour the green bean mixture into a greased 9×9 casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.

6. Air Fryer Method: Bake for 10 minutes. Stir the casserole, then sprinkle the remaining onions on top and cook for an additional 2 minutes to brown them.

7. Oven Method: Bake for 25 minutes. Stir, then sprinkle the remaining onions on top and bake for 5 more minutes until they are golden brown.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep time: 5 minutes

• Cook time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Vegan Version: Use a plant-based cream of mushroom soup and non-dairy milk (such as almond milk) to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

• Low-Sodium Option: Choose unsalted cream of mushroom soup and reduced-sodium soy sauce to keep the sodium content lower.

• Different Toppings: Try adding some shredded cheese on top along with the French fried onions for a cheesy twist.

• Extra Veggies: You can add other vegetables like mushrooms or even garlic to enhance the flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storing Leftovers: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

• Freezing: This casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

• Reheating: To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If using a microwave, heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole the day before and store it in the fridge. Just bake it on the day you plan to serve it.

Can I use a different type of bean?

While green beans are the classic choice, you can experiment with other beans like snap peas or even asparagus for a twist.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The recipe as written contains gluten from the French fried onions. However, you can look for gluten-free fried onions or make your own gluten-free topping.

Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, frozen green beans work just as well as fresh or canned. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before using.

Can I use a different type of soup?

Yes, you can swap the cream of mushroom soup with other varieties like cream of celery or even a homemade cream sauce if preferred.

Can I make this casserole in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this casserole in a slow cooker on low for 2-3 hours, just be sure to add the French fried onions near the end of the cooking time to avoid them getting soggy.

Can I add cheese to this casserole?

Yes, adding some shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese to the top of the casserole before baking can give it a nice cheesy finish.

Can I cook this in a larger or smaller dish?

Yes, you can adjust the size of the casserole dish based on your needs. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the depth of the casserole.

What can I serve this casserole with?

This dish pairs well with roasted meats, mashed potatoes, stuffing, or any other savory side dishes.

How do I avoid overcooking the green beans?

Be careful not to overcook the green beans, especially if using fresh ones. Blanch them briefly and avoid cooking them too long in the casserole.

Conclusion

Classic Green Bean Casserole is a comforting side dish that’s quick, simple, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a larger gathering, this recipe will add a creamy, flavorful touch to your meal. Feel free to make it your own with variations, and enjoy this timeless dish with your loved ones!