Imagine a warm, creamy dish that greets you like an old friend at Thanksgiving dinner. The Best Ever Green Bean Casserole is a delightful combination of tender green beans, rich cream, and that irresistible crunch of fried onions. perfect soup pairing This dish not only fills your belly but also warms your heart with every bite, making it a staple for family gatherings and cozy nights in.
Think about the aroma wafting through your kitchen as this casserole bakes to golden perfection. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual weeknight dinner, this recipe inspires good memories and even better company. complementary casserole dish Get ready to impress your loved ones with this flavorful, comforting classic that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, taking less than 15 minutes of hands-on time
- Its flavor combines savory creaminess with the satisfying crunch of fried onions
- Visually, it’s appealing with vibrant green beans and golden toppings
- Perfect as a side dish for holidays or any gathering, its versatility knows no bounds
I remember the first time I made this dish; my family devoured it and begged for seconds—it’s definitely become our go-to comfort food.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Fresh Green Beans: Opt for crisp, bright green beans; they bring the perfect texture and flavor to the dish.
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Cream of Mushroom Soup: Use a high-quality brand for the tastiest base; homemade is even better if you’re feeling adventurous.
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Milk: Whole milk offers richness, but you can substitute low-fat for a lighter version without sacrificing too much flavor.
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Fried Onions: These add that crunch factor! Store-bought versions save time, but homemade can elevate the flavor.
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Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper will enhance all flavors; don’t skimp on this classic seasoning!
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Salt: A pinch is essential to balance flavors and bring out the best in each ingredient.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. savory steak noodles.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a baking dish and give it a quick spray with nonstick cooking spray; nobody likes sticking casseroles. For more inspiration, check out this Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole recipe.
Prepare the Green Beans: Trim the ends off fresh green beans. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water and pat dry for best results.
Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and black pepper until smooth. This creamy concoction makes up the heart of your casserole.
Add in the Stars: Fold in the fresh green beans gently so they’re coated with your creamy mixture. Be careful not to mash them; we want them whole!
Bake Away: Pour everything into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of those crunchy fried onions on top before placing it in the oven.
Bake for Perfection: Let it bake for 25 minutes or until bubbling at the edges. Remove from oven and sprinkle remaining fried onions on top before returning it for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
Now you have The Best Ever Green Bean Casserole ready to be served! Enjoy every bite while basking in compliments from friends and family who will surely ask for your secret recipe!
You Must Know
- This recipe for The Best Ever Green Bean Casserole will impress your guests and elevate any meal
- With rich, creamy textures and crunchy toppings, it’s a holiday classic that can easily become a year-round favorite
- The aroma will have everyone flocking to the kitchen!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while you prepare the green beans. Cook them until they are just tender, then mix them with your creamy sauce before baking. This ensures they stay vibrant and delicious.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out regular green beans for fresh haricots verts or add crispy bacon for flavor. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top can take this casserole to new heights! For more inspiration, check out this Ranch Green Beans with Bacon recipe.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes for best texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor, use fresh green beans instead of canned ones
- They provide a lovely crunch and vibrant color
- Be cautious not to overbake; you want them tender, not mushy!
- Don’t skimp on seasoning; it makes all the difference in elevating this dish
Cooking this casserole brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter and good food filled the room. It’s a crowd-pleaser that my friends always request during potlucks.
FAQ
Can I use frozen green beans for The Best Ever Green Bean Casserole?
Yes, frozen green beans work well; just thaw and drain them before using.
How do I make this dish vegan-friendly?
Replace cream with coconut milk and use vegan mushroom soup for a delicious twist.
What can I serve alongside this casserole?
Serve it with roasted turkey or grilled chicken for a complete meal experience. easy crockpot meal.
The Best Ever Green Bean Casserole
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
The Best Ever Green Bean Casserole is a comforting classic that combines tender green beans, rich cream of mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions. This delicious dish is perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, bringing warmth and nostalgia to every bite. With its creamy texture and irresistible crunch, it’s no wonder this casserole is a crowd favorite. Impress your family and friends with this easy-to-make recipe that promises to be the highlight of any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and washed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ¾ cup whole milk
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup fried onions (divided)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Gently fold in the fresh green beans to coat them in the creamy mixture.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle half of the fried onions on top.
- Bake for 25 minutes until bubbling, then add the remaining fried onions on top and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (210g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
