Green Bean Casserole is an easy-to-make side dish that delivers big on taste with minimal ingredients. It comes together quickly and is perfect for preparing ahead of time. The contrast between the creamy filling and crispy topping makes every bite memorable. Whether you’re making it for a festive occasion or a comforting family dinner, this dish brings warmth and nostalgia to the table.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Fresh or frozen green beans
Cream of mushroom soup
Milk
Soy sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
Ground black pepper
Crispy fried onions
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
If using fresh green beans, blanch them in boiling water for 5–6 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain and set aside. If using frozen, thaw and drain.
In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce (if using), and pepper. Mix until smooth.
Fold in the green beans and half of the crispy fried onions. Stir to coat evenly.
Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, or until the mixture is hot and bubbling.
Remove from oven and top with the remaining crispy fried onions.
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes until the onions are golden and crisp.
Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 6–8 people. Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 35 minutes Total time: 45 minutes
Variations
Cheesy Version: Add shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese to the sauce for extra richness.
Homemade Sauce: Skip the canned soup and make your own mushroom cream sauce with sautéed mushrooms, butter, flour, and milk.
Vegan: Use plant-based cream of mushroom soup and dairy-free milk, and choose vegan fried onions.
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover Green Bean Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15–20 minutes, or until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent the onions from over-browning, then uncover for the last few minutes to crisp the topping. Microwaving is also an option, but the topping may lose its crispness. For best texture, reheat in the oven.
FAQs
Can I make Green Bean Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole (without the final onion topping) up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then top with onions and bake just before serving.
Can I use canned green beans?
Yes, but for best texture and flavor, fresh or frozen green beans are recommended. Canned beans may be softer and saltier.
How do I make it from scratch without canned soup?
Use a homemade mushroom sauce made with sautéed mushrooms, butter, flour, broth, and milk or cream for a fully from-scratch version.
Can I freeze Green Bean Casserole?
Freezing is not ideal due to the dairy-based sauce and fried onion topping, which may become soggy. However, you can freeze it before baking and add the topping fresh when ready to cook.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Traditional crispy onions and canned soups often contain gluten. Use gluten-free alternatives for both to make this dish gluten-free.
What can I use instead of crispy fried onions?
Try toasted breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or sautéed shallots for a homemade alternative.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, you can mix in mushrooms, carrots, or even corn for added texture and variety.
Why is my casserole watery?
This can happen if the beans weren’t drained well or if frozen beans released too much moisture. Try patting them dry or cooking them slightly before assembling the casserole.
How can I add protein?
Mix in cooked, shredded chicken, turkey, or crumbled sausage to make it a more filling main dish.
What goes well with Green Bean Casserole?
It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, mashed potatoes, stuffing, or any other classic holiday side dishes.
Conclusion
Green Bean Casserole is a timeless side dish that never goes out of style. With its creamy filling, tender green beans, and crisp onion topping, it delivers both flavor and nostalgia. Whether you stick with the classic or add your own twist, this casserole is sure to be a hit at any meal.
Green Bean Casserole is a classic, comforting side dish made with tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and crispy fried onions. It’s easy to prepare, perfect for holidays or everyday meals, and delivers nostalgic flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
1 ½ pounds fresh or frozen green beans
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
½ cup milk
1 tsp soy sauce (optional)
½ tsp ground black pepper
1 ½ cups crispy fried onions, divided
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
If using fresh green beans, blanch in boiling water for 5–6 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain. If using frozen, thaw and drain.
In a large bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce (if using), and pepper until smooth.
Fold in green beans and half of the crispy fried onions. Mix to combine.
Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, or until hot and bubbling.
Remove from oven and top with remaining crispy fried onions.
Return to oven and bake an additional 5–10 minutes, until onions are golden and crisp.
Let rest a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Use fresh or frozen green beans for best texture; canned beans may be too soft.Prepare the casserole a day ahead, then top and bake before serving.Reheat in the oven to keep the topping crispy.Make it vegan with plant-based milk, vegan mushroom soup, and dairy-free onions.Customize by adding cheese, spices, or extra vegetables.
