If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that never fails to impress, look no further than this green bean casserole recipe. With its creamy mushroom sauce, tender green beans, and crispy onion topping, this dish is a staple at holiday gatherings and family dinners alike. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite on your table. Let’s dive into the ingredients and cooking process to create this beloved classic!
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup crispy fried onions (plus more for topping)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/6 of the casserole) contains approximately 220 calories, 10g fat, 25g carbohydrates, and 6g protein.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Boil a pot of salted water and blanch the green beans for 5 minutes.
- Drain the beans and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the cream of mushroom soup and milk to the beans.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the crispy fried onions.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 2-quart baking dish.
- Spread the remaining crispy fried onions on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute fresh green beans with frozen ones for convenience. Additionally, use cream of chicken soup instead of mushroom soup for a different flavor, or swap out the cheddar cheese for a blend like mozzarella for a unique twist.
Serving and Pairings
This green bean casserole pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad. It complements holiday meals perfectly, but is also great as a weeknight side dish.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through. You can freeze the casserole before baking, but it’s best to bake it fresh for optimal texture.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the green beans can lead to a mushy texture.
- Not seasoning properly can result in a bland dish.
- Using low-fat cream of mushroom soup may affect creaminess.
- Skipping the crispy onions top can take away the desired crunch.
- Not allowing it to cool slightly can lead to messy servings.
Helpful Tips
- For added flavor, sauté garlic and onion before mixing.
- Try adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for extra richness.
- Use homemade cream of mushroom soup for a fresher taste.
- Mix in cooked bacon bits for a savory twist.
- Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color.
FAQs
Can I make green bean casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage and refrigerate it overnight. Just add extra baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
You can use homemade cream of mushroom soup or substitute with cream of chicken or vegetable soup for a different flavor profile.
Can I use frozen green beans?
Absolutely! Frozen green beans work well and save time. Just thaw them before mixing with other ingredients.
Is green bean casserole gluten-free?
Traditional recipes may not be gluten-free due to the soup and fried onions. Look for gluten-free alternatives to make it suitable.
How do I make it vegetarian?
To keep it vegetarian, ensure you use vegetable broth and check that any substitutes for fried onions are also meat-free.
Conclusion
This green bean casserole recipe is a timeless dish that brings comfort and joy to any meal. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s an easy addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether for holidays or family dinners, this dish is sure to delight and satisfy every palate. Enjoy making memories over this classic recipe!
Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans trimmed
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup crispy fried onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Boil a pot of salted water and blanch the green beans for 5 minutes.
- Drain the beans and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the cream of mushroom soup and milk to the beans.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the crispy fried onions.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 2-quart baking dish.
- Spread the remaining crispy fried onions on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.