As autumn arrives and the holidays near, the smell of green bean casserole fills homes. This dish, with its green beans, mushroom sauce, and French fried onions, is a Thanksgiving and Christmas favorite. It’s a comfort food that brings joy and warmth to any meal.
Key Takeaways
- Classic green bean casserole recipe featuring creamy mushroom soup, tender green beans, and crispy fried onions
- Easy to prepare, with only 4 main ingredients and 5 minutes of prep time
- Serves 6-8 people, making it perfect for small gatherings or family meals
- Can be easily doubled for larger holiday celebrations
- A beloved holiday side dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite
Why This Green Bean Casserole Is a Holiday Favorite
The classic green bean casserole has been a Thanksgiving side dish for many years. It’s a simple yet tasty recipe that has become a holiday tradition for many families in America.
History of the Classic Side Dish
Dorcas Reilly of Campbell’s Soup Company created the original green bean casserole in 1955. It quickly became a favorite at potluck tables and on holiday menus everywhere. Now, 40% of Campbell’s mushroom soup sales are thanks to this side dish.
What Makes This Recipe Special
This green bean casserole is special because of its perfect mix of flavors and textures. The creamy mushroom soup sauce goes well with the green beans. The French fried onions on top add a nice crunch.
The addition of white miso can also make the casserole even better. It adds a mild, sweet umami flavor that complements the other ingredients. This makes the dish even more delicious.
“The green bean casserole has gotten to be a image of the American occasion table, bringing families together with its comforting flavors and nostalgic appeal.”
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Green Bean Casserole
Making a tasty green bean casserole begins with picking the right ingredients. Green beans are key, adding texture and taste. You also need creamy cream of mushroom soup and crunchy French fried onions on top.
The main ingredients for a classic green bean casserole are:
- 28 oz. can of cut green beans, drained
- 10 oz. can of cream of mushroom soup
- 1/4 cup milk
- 6 oz. can of French fried onions
You can too make your claim cream of mushroom soup. Use butter, mushrooms, chicken broth, milk, and flour. This recipe lets you try different soups or milks to find your favorite.
“67% of overviewed people evaluated the taste of the green bean casserole as excellent.”
The mix of tender green beans, creamy mushroom soup, and crunchy onions makes a delicious side dish. It’s a hit with family and friends.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make the perfect green bean casserole, you’ll need some key tools. First, grab a 1 1/2 quart casserole dish. It’s best to use a non-stick cooking spray to avoid sticking and make cleaning easy.
For homemade cream of mushroom soup, you’ll need a medium saucepan and a whisk. These help you make a smooth, creamy base. Also, have basic mixing bowls ready for the other ingredients.
Recommended Baking Dishes
- 1 1/2 quart casserole dish
- 3 quart baking dish (if doubling the recipe)
Additional Cooking Utensils
- Non-stick cooking spray
- Medium saucepan (for homemade cream of mushroom soup)
- Whisk
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
With these tools, you’re ready to make a tasty green bean casserole. Your family and friends will love it.
Green Bean Casserole Step-by-Step Instructions
Making a classic casserole recipes like the green bean casserole is easy. These baking instructions are simple, even for beginners. Follow this guide to make a tasty easy side dishes that will wow your guests.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and two-thirds of the crispy fried onions.
- Grease a heating dish with butter or non-stick spray. Then, put the green bean mix in the dish.
- Bake the casserole for 30 minutes, then take it out of the oven.
- Put the remaining one-third of the fried onions on top.
- Put the casserole back in the oven for 5 more minutes. It ought to be brilliant brown and fresh on top.
This whole process takes about 35-40 minutes. You’ll end up with a hot, bubbly green bean casserole. It has a crunchy topping that’s irresistible.
“This green bean casserole recipe is a holiday staple that never fails to satisfy.”
Tips for Making Homemade Cream of Mushroom Sauce
While the classic green bean casserole recipe often calls for canned cream of mushroom soup, making your own version can elevate the dish. Fresh, flavorful ingredients make a big difference. Preparing the creamy mushroom sauce from scratch is simple and yields a rich, velvety base for your green bean casserole.
Ingredient Measurements
To make a homemade cream of mushroom sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 8 ounces sliced mushrooms (such as button or cremini)
- 3/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Techniques
To prepare the homemade cream of mushroom sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until they’re tender and starting to brown.
- Pour in the broth and stir in the onion powder and garlic powder. Bring the blend to a stew and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, permitting the flavors to blend.
- In a partitioned bowl, whisk together the drain and flour until smooth. Slowly pour the milk-flour mixture into the saucepan, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
- Continue cooking the sauce, stirring frequently, until it thickens to a creamy consistency, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
This homemade cream of mushroom sauce takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare. It yields a flavorful base for your green bean casserole. This elevates the classic dish with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
French Fried Onions: The Perfect Topping
No classic green bean casserole is complete without french fried onions. They add a delightful crunch to the soft, creamy casserole. The crunchy toppings make the dish irresistible.
To get the perfect balance, use a 6 oz. can of french fried onions. Mix two-thirds of them into the casserole. Then, save one-third to sprinkle on top during the last 5 minutes of baking. This way, the french fried onions become crisp and golden.
The french fried onions add texture and flavor to the casserole ingredients. Their savory taste complements the creamy green beans and mushroom sauce. Together, they make a dish that’s both harmonious and indulgent.
“The french fried onions take this green bean casserole to the next level. The combination of the soft, tender beans and the crispy, crunchy topping is absolute perfection.”
So, whether it’s for a holiday or a cozy side dish, don’t forget the french fried onions. They make the experience unforgettable.
Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
This classic green bean casserole is perfect for busy holiday gatherings. You can plan it up to 3 days in development. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Proper Storage Methods
To store the casserole, prepare it without the fried onion topping. Cover it tightly with a lid or foil and refrigerate. When you’re ready, top it with the onions and bake as instructed.
For leftovers, keep the cooled casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 1 month. This makes it a great choice for holiday meals.
Reheating Guidelines
To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 10-15 minutes. This will make it hot and the onions crispy again.
You can moreover warm person parcels in the microwave. But, the onions might not stay as crispy. If it’s cold, add 5 more minutes to bake until it’s hot all the way through.
By following these simple steps, you can enjoy this green bean casserole with ease. A little planning ahead lets you focus on other parts of your meal. This way, you can have a delicious holiday classic ready to go.
Variations and Substitutions
The classic green bean casserole is a holiday favorite. But, you can add your own twist. Try these tasty variations and ingredient swaps:
- Bacon Bits: Crispy bacon adds a savory, smoky flavor that goes well with green beans and creamy sauce.
- Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar, Parmesan, or Swiss cheese on top for an extra rich taste.
- Fresh Mushrooms: Sauté sliced white or cremini mushrooms and mix them into the creamy sauce for a deeper flavor.
Want a healthier version? Utilize new or solidified green beans instep of canned. Try low-fat milk or cream in the sauce. You can also make your own crispy onion topping by slicing onions, tossing them in flour, and baking until golden.
| Ingredient | Substitution |
|---|---|
| Canned Cream of Mushroom Soup | Cream of Celery Soup |
| Canned Green Beans | Fresh or Frozen Green Beans |
| French Fried Onions | Homemade Crispy Onions |
Vegetable casseroles offer endless possibilities. Don’t be afraid to try new ingredients and flavors. Make the green bean casserole your own.
Nutritional Information and Serving Size
Enjoying a classic green bean casserole means being aware of its nutritional details. A single serving, about 2/3 cup (109 grams), is flavorful and balanced.
Caloric Content Details
Each serving has 110 calories. It’s made up of 53% fat, 39% carbs, and 8% protein. The total fat is 6 grams, with 3.5 grams of saturated fat. This is 18% of the daily value.
Portion Recommendations
- Calories per serving: 110
- Total fat: 6.00g (8% daily value)
- Saturated fat: 3.500g (18% daily value)
- Cholesterol: 10mg (3% daily value)
- Sodium: 350mg (15% daily value)
- Total carbohydrate: 10.00g (4% daily value)
- Dietary fiber: 2.0g (7% daily value)
- Sugars: 3.00g
- Protein: 2.00g
The dish also has small amounts of vitamins and minerals. It has 4% of the daily value for calcium and iron. Adjust your portion sizes based on your dietary needs and preferences.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 110 | – |
| Total Fat | 6.00g | 8% |
| Saturated Fat | 3.500g | 18% |
| Cholesterol | 10mg | 3% |
| Sodium | 350mg | 15% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 10.00g | 4% |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.0g | 7% |
| Sugars | 3.00g | – |
| Protein | 2.00g | – |
| Vitamin D | 0mcg | 2% |
| Calcium | 50mg | 4% |
| Iron | 0.60mg | 3% |
| Potassium | 170mg | 4% |
These nutritional values are for a single serving of 2/3 cup (109 grams). Adjust your portion to fit your dietary needs and preferences.
Pairing Suggestions and Menu Planning
The classic green bean casserole is a key side dish for Thanksgiving and holidays. It goes well with turkey, ham, and prime rib. This dish is versatile and enhances the taste of many main courses.
For a balanced holiday spread, pair the green bean casserole with other classic sides. Try it with mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and stuffing. A fresh green salad adds a nice touch.
No Thanksgiving is complete without a sweet dessert. Serve pumpkin pie or pecan pie for a delightful finish. This green bean casserole is also great for weeknight dinners or potluck events.
| Dish | Pairing Suggestion |
|---|---|
| Green Bean Casserole | Roast Turkey, Honey-Baked Ham, Prime Rib |
| Mashed Potatoes | Complement the casserole’s textures |
| Cranberry Sauce | Provide a tart, fruity contrast |
| Stuffing/Dressing | Soak up the casserole’s creamy sauce |
| Green Salad | Offer a fresh, crisp balance |
| Pumpkin Pie | End the meal on a sweet note |
| Pecan Pie | Indulge in a decadent dessert |
Plan your holiday meal with care. Pair the green bean casserole with other dishes for a memorable Thanksgiving feast. Your guests will surely enjoy it.
Conclusion
The classic green bean casserole recipe is a mix of creamy, crunchy, and savory flavors. It has become a favorite holiday tradition. This dish is sure to be a comforting staple for many generations.
Since the 1950s, this recipe has been a classic. It combines tender green beans, a creamy sauce, and French fried onions. This makes it a satisfying comfort food. You can also adapt it to fit your taste and traditions.
Whether for a holiday or a family dinner, this casserole is a great choice. It’s easy to make ahead and store. This makes it a convenient and versatile dish. Let it bring joy and togetherness to your home, one delicious bite at a time.