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Green Bean Casserole
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Make your holiday meal unforgettable with this easy and delicious Green Bean Casserole recipe! Fresh green beans, creamy mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions create the perfect side dish. This classic comfort food pairs perfectly with any main course and will have everyone asking for seconds. Try it tonight and see why it’s a favorite!
This recipe is easy to make—just follow the step-by-step guide below. We’ve included detailed photos and directions, along with pro tips and tricks to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly. Check out our FAQ section for answers to the most frequently asked questions!
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Whip up this Green Bean Casserole in just 30 minutes for a crowd-pleasing side dish that’s perfect for any occasion! The creamy mushroom sauce, tender green beans, and crunchy fried onions create a mouthwatering combination everyone will love. Ideal for holiday dinners, potlucks, or weeknight meals, this easy recipe stands out with its unbeatable flavor and quick preparation. Try it at home and make every meal special!
Ingredients
What you'll need to make this Green Bean Casserole recipe:
- 1 pound of frozen green beans
- 4 slices crispy bacon, chopped
- ½ cup onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 cup button mushrooms, fine diced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2½ cups half & half
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups French fried onions
Substitutions and Additions
Personalize your Green Bean Casserole recipe by swapping out ingredients and adding delicious extras! These simple changes can make your casserole uniquely yours. Here are some top substitutions and additions:
Add Shredded Cheese: Mix in shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a cheesy upgrade that makes your casserole even more irresistible. These easy substitutions and additions can easily be swapped out while still maintaining the deliciousness of this American baked casserole.
Substitute Fresh Green Beans: Use frozen or canned beans for a quicker preparation without sacrificing flavor in your casserole.
Substitute Cream of Mushroom Soup: Swap it with cream of chicken or cheddar cheese soup for a different, but equally delicious, taste.
Add Bacon Bits: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits for a smoky twist that adds extra crunch and flavor to your casserole.
Substitute Fried Onions: Use crispy fried shallots or breadcrumbs for a unique topping that adds texture and taste.
How to Make Green Bean Casserole
Pro Tip
Crockpot green bean casserole is another way you can prep ahead and not have to rush during dinner time. Simply assemble and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours. Top with the rest of the crispy onions once it’s done cooking.
Follow along with our pictures, step-by-step instructions, and tips and tricks to make the perfect Green Bean Casserole. Let’s get started and create a delicious dish everyone will love!
FIRST STEP: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 2-quart baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside.
SECOND STEP: Steam your frozen green beans according to your package directions. Drain any excess liquid from the beans and place them into a large bowl. Set cooked green beans aside.
THIRD STEP: In a medium skillet, over medium-low heat, cook bacon slices until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and let them drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Once cooled, chop the bacon into small pieces. Set aside.
FOURTH STEP: Remove all but 1 tablespoon of the bacon grease from the skillet and cook, on medium-high heat, the mushrooms, onions, and garlic for 5 minutes or until tender. Remove cooked vegetables from the skillet and set them aside.
FIFTH STEP: Using the same skillet you cooked your bacon and vegetables in, on medium heat, add the butter and allow it to start to melt. Once melted, sprinkle flour in and stir it around in the butter to cook until the flour is a pale brown and no raw flour remains. This will take about 1 to 2 minutes.
SIXTH STEP: Slowly whisk the half & half into the flour and butter. Make sure to whisk continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. Continue to cook until the mixture thickens up. This will take about 3 minutes.
Pro Tip
Adding the flour helps thicken the mixture to ensure that you don’t end up with a watery casserole.
SEVENTH STEP: Turn off the heat to your skillet and add the parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
EIGHTH STEP: In the large bowl with your steamed green beans, add the cooked mushroom mixture, chopped bacon, and the half & half mixture.
Stir to combine all the ingredients, then transfer the vegetables to your prepared casserole dish.
NINTH STEP: Evenly top the mixture with the French fried onions and bake your casserole for 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Pro Tip
Oven temperatures vary and may need to be recalibrated periodically to ensure they are accurate. Make sure to keep a close eye on your casserole as the suggested baking time approaches.
How To Serve Green Bean Casserole
Green Bean Casserole is a versatile dish that works for various occasions and seasons. Whether it's a holiday gathering or a casual dinner, this recipe fits perfectly!
- Holiday Dinners:
Green Bean Casserole is a must-have for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Its rich flavors and crunchy topping complement roasted turkey or glazed ham. Add mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce for a complete festive meal. - Family Weeknight Meals:
Serve this easy casserole on busy weeknights. Kids love the creamy sauce and crispy onions! Pair it with roasted chicken and buttered rolls for a comforting, kid-friendly dinner. - Potlucks and Parties:
Bring this dish to your next potluck or party—it’s always a crowd-pleaser! The easy-to-serve portions and classic taste make it a hit with guests. Serve it alongside BBQ ribs and cornbread for a memorable feast.
Why You'll Love This Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Green Bean Casserole is more than just a side dish—it’s a beloved favorite for several tasty reasons:
- A Classic Comfort Food:
This recipe combines the creamy richness of mushroom soup with the crispy crunch of fried onions. The fresh green beans add a vibrant touch, making each bite a perfect mix of flavors and textures. - Perfect for Any Occasion:
Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, this Green Bean Casserole fits right in. Its timeless appeal brings warmth and nostalgia to any table, making it a must-have for family gatherings. - Quick and Easy to Make:
With just a few ingredients and 30 minutes, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser. It’s a go-to recipe for busy cooks who want a dish that’s both simple and satisfying.
Green Bean Casserole isn’t just delicious—it’s a comforting, versatile dish that brings joy to any meal.
Recipe FAQ
Can I use fresh or frozen beans in Green Bean Casserole?
Yes, you can use fresh or frozen green beans. Blanch fresh green beans first for the best texture.
How do I keep the fried onions crispy in my casserole?
Add the fried onions during the last 10 minutes of baking to keep them crispy and golden.
Can I prepare Green Bean Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole without the fried onions, then refrigerate. Add the onions and bake when ready to serve.
How do I make the sauce thicker in Green Bean Casserole?
To thicken the sauce, add a tablespoon of flour to the mushroom soup before mixing it with other ingredients.
Serving FAQ
What’s the best way to serve Green Bean Casserole?
Serve hot and fresh from the oven. The crispy topping and creamy sauce are best enjoyed warm.
How do I prevent Green Bean Casserole from getting soggy when serving?
Avoid covering the casserole with foil when serving. This keeps the fried onions crispy and the dish flavorful.
Can I double the Green Bean Casserole recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, double the ingredients and bake in a larger dish. Adjust the baking time to ensure it’s evenly cooked.
How long should Green Bean Casserole sit before serving?
Let it sit for 5-10 minutes after baking. This allows the flavors to settle and makes serving easier.
Storage FAQ
Follow the directions, tips, and tricks below for the best way to store this Green Bean Casserole. From making it ahead to reheating leftovers, we’ve got you covered with all the details you need!
Can I prepare the Green Bean Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Cover it tightly with foil and store it in the fridge until you're ready to bake.
What's the best way to store leftover Green Bean Casserole?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to three days.
Is it possible to freeze Green Bean Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole after baking. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to one month.
How do I thaw and reheat frozen Green Bean Casserole?
Thaw the casserole in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil, until it's heated through.
How should I reheat leftover Green Bean Casserole?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Cover it with foil to prevent the topping from burning.
Can I reheat Green Bean Casserole in the microwave?
Yes, you can reheat it in the microwave in 30-second intervals, but for the best texture, the oven is preferred.
Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 pound frozen green beans
- 4 slices crispy bacon (chopped)
- ½ cup onion (diced)
- 1 tablespoon garlic (minced)
- 1 cup button mushrooms (finely chopped)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2½ cups half & half cream
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 cup parmesan cheese (grated)
- salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2 cups French fried onions
DIRECTIONS
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray a 2-quart baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside.
- Steam your frozen green beans according to your package directions. Drain any excess liquid from the beans and place them into a large bowl. Set cooked green beans aside.
- In a medium skillet, over medium-low heat, cook bacon slices until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and let them drain on a paper towel lined plate. Once cooled, chop the bacon into small pieces. Set aside.
- Remove all but 1 tablespoon of the bacon grease from the skillet and cook, on medium-high heat, the mushrooms, onions and garlic for 5 minutes or until tender. Remove cooked vegetables from the skillet and set them aside.
- Using the same skillet you cooked your bacon and vegetables in, on medium heat, add the butter and allow it to start to melt. Once melted, sprinkle flour in and stir it around in the butter to cook until the flour is a pale brown and no raw flour remains. This will take about 1 and 2 minutes.
- Slowly whisk the half & half into the flour and butter. Make sure to whisk continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. Continue to cook until the mixture thickens up. This will take about 3 minutes.
- Turn off the heat to your skillet and add the parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper. Stir to combine.
- In the large bowl with your steamed green beans, add the cooked mushroom mixture, chopped bacon and the half & half mixture. Stir to combine all the ingredients then transfer the vegetables to your prepared casserole dish.
- Evenly top your green bean mixture with the French fried onions and bake your casserole for 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Notes
- Crockpot green bean casserole is another way you can prep ahead and not have to rush during dinner time. Simply assemble and cook this recipe on low for 5 to 6 hours. Top with the rest of the crispy onions once it’s done cooking.
- Adding the flour helps thicken the mixture to ensure that you don’t end up with a watery casserole.
- Oven temperatures vary and may need to be recalibrated periodically to ensure they are accurate. Make sure to keep a close eye on your casserole as the suggested baking time approaches.
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