Name: Delicious Green Bean Casserole Recipe for Holiday Feasts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces; 1 can (10 1/2 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup; 1/2 cup milk; 1 teaspoon soy sauce; 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 1/3 cups crispy fried onions, divided; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Green Bean Casserole is a classic American dish that brings warmth and comfort to your holiday table or weeknight dinners. This creamy baked side dish combines fresh green beans with rich mushroom soup and crispy fried onions. It’s a staple that never fails to impress, making it a beloved option for family gatherings and festive occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Green Bean Casserole

This Green Bean Casserole is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. With a total time of just 40 minutes, you can whip up this creamy green bean casserole in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The combination of fresh green beans and rich cream of mushroom soup creates a satisfying texture that pairs beautifully with crispy fried onions. Whether you’re serving it as part of a holiday meal or as a simple side dish, this casserole is sure to delight. Plus, it’s a vegetarian-friendly option that can easily be adapted for gluten-free diets with a few simple substitutions. You can also explore variations like a green bean bake with cheese, or even a low-carb green bean casserole for those watching their intake. Overall, this dish is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal.

Ingredients for Green Bean Casserole

Gather these items:

4 cups fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
1 can (10 1/2 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 1/3 cups crispy fried onions, divided
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

How to Make Green Bean Casserole Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish.
Step 2: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add green beans and cook for 4–5 minutes until crisp-tender. Drain well.
Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper. Stir until smooth.
Step 4: Add the drained green beans and 2/3 cup of the crispy fried onions to the soup mixture. If using, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 5: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread into an even layer.
Step 6: Bake for 20–25 minutes, until hot and bubbly around the edges.
Step 7: Sprinkle the remaining crispy fried onions evenly over the top and return to the oven for 5–10 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown.
Step 8: Let stand for 5 minutes before serving to allow the casserole to set slightly.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Green Bean Casserole

Keep these in mind:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Reheat in the oven for best texture.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and check the fried onions for gluten content.
Consider adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for an extra flavor boost.

Best Ways to Serve Green Bean Casserole

This green bean dish can be served alongside roasted meats, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce for a classic holiday meal. It also pairs perfectly with a simple salad for a lighter dinner option. For a fun twist, try topping it with crispy bacon or extra cheese for added richness.

Delicious Green Bean Casserole Recipe for Holiday Feasts - Green Bean Casserole - main visual representation

How to Store and Reheat Green Bean Casserole

After enjoying your Green Bean Casserole, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the best texture, reheat in the oven, as microwaving may make it soggy. This dish is also great for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week!

Frequently Asked Questions About Green Bean Casserole

What’s the secret to perfect Green Bean Casserole?

The secret to a perfect Green Bean Casserole lies in not overcooking the green beans. They should be crisp-tender before baking to maintain their texture.

Can I make Green Bean Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time. Assemble it and refrigerate, then bake just before serving for a fresh taste.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Green Bean Casserole?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you don’t skip the draining step for the beans and keep an eye on the baking time to prevent burning the crispy onions.

Variations of Green Bean Casserole You Can Try

For those looking to mix things up, consider making a vegetarian green bean casserole by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also try a green bean casserole with cheese for an extra creamy texture or a homemade green bean casserole with fresh ingredients for a healthier take. Another option is a quick green bean casserole preparation using frozen beans for convenience.

For more tips on preparing delicious casseroles, check out this guide. If you’re interested in exploring more vegetarian options, visit this page. You can also learn about gluten-free adaptations at this resource.