Green bean casserole is a beloved dish that brings comfort and nostalgia to the table. With its creamy base, tender green beans, and crispy topping, this casserole is perfect for holiday feasts or any family gathering. This recipe elevates the classic version with a few simple twists that enhance the flavor and texture, making it a must-try for any cook. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful dish!
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup French fried onions
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 8 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 250 calories, 10g fat, 30g carbohydrates, 5g protein, and 2g fiber. This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Wash and trim the green beans, then blanch them in boiling water for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the blanched green beans to the mixture and stir to combine.
- Fold in half of the French fried onions and half of the cheddar cheese.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- Add the breadcrumbs if using, for extra crunch.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes until bubbly.
- Remove from oven and top with the remaining French fried onions, then bake for an additional 5 minutes.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery for a different flavor. For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and cheese. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also enhance the dish’s flavor profile.
Serving and Pairings
This green bean casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey or ham, making it a staple for holiday dinners. It also complements mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce for a well-rounded meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through. It can be frozen, but the texture may change upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the green beans can make them mushy; aim for a tender-crisp texture.
- Using stale fried onions will affect the crunchiness; check the expiry date.
- Forgetting to season the mixture can result in bland flavors.
- Not preheating the oven may lead to uneven cooking.
- Skipping the final baking step with fried onions can lessen the dish’s appeal.
- Using too much liquid can make the casserole soupy; stick to the recommended amounts.
- Not allowing it to cool slightly before serving can result in a messy presentation.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.
- Incorporate sautéed mushrooms for extra texture.
- Top with fresh herbs before serving for a pop of color.
- Use homemade cream soup for a fresher taste.
- Make it a day ahead and bake before serving for easy entertaining.
FAQs
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans. Just ensure they are thawed and drained well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free fried onions and substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free ones.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble it a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just bake it before serving.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be enjoyed as a side dish or added to casseroles and omelets for a flavorful twist.
How do I make it creamier?
For a creamier texture, add more cheese and substitute some milk with sour cream or cream cheese.
Conclusion
The best green bean casserole recipe is a delightful addition to any meal, bringing together flavors and textures that everyone will love. With its creamy richness and crispy topping, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether for holidays or casual dinners, this dish will impress and satisfy your guests!
Best Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh green beans trimmed
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup French fried onions
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Wash and trim the green beans, then blanch them in boiling water for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the blanched green beans to the mixture and stir to combine.
- Fold in half of the French fried onions and half of the cheddar cheese.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- Add the breadcrumbs if using, for extra crunch.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes until bubbly.
- Remove from oven and top with the remaining French fried onions, then bake for an additional 5 minutes.
Nutrition
