The Best Green Bean Casserole Recipe — Classic Green Bean Casserole
I’ve loved The Best Green Bean Casserole ever since I was a kid helping my grandmother set the Thanksgiving table. She would hum while pouring the crispy onions over the bubbling casserole, and the scent of mushroom and butter would fill the house. That memory made this dish more than a side — it’s part comfort food, part family ritual. Originating in mid-20th century America as a simple, pantry-friendly Thanksgiving staple, this casserole has become a beloved classic at holiday tables and weeknight dinners alike.
Who is this recipe for?
- This recipe is for busy parents, weeknight cooks, holiday hosts, and anyone who wants a simple, comforting side dish that tastes like tradition.
Core ingredients overview:
- This dish combines cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, black pepper, green beans, crispy fried onions, and optional cheddar cheese to create a creamy, crunchy, and comforting casserole that’s quick to assemble and easy to love.
Tools & Ingredients
Tools
- Oven — for baking the casserole to bubbly perfection.
- Mixing bowl (large) — to combine the sauce and green beans easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons — for accurate seasoning and consistency.
- Wooden spoon or spatula — for stirring without scratching.
- 9×13-inch casserole dish (or similar) — to bake and present the dish.
- Can opener — to open the soup can.
- Whisk (optional) — to make a smoother sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup — adds savory creaminess and body.
- 1/2 cup milk — thins the soup into a silky sauce and keeps the casserole moist.
- 1 tsp soy sauce — deepens umami flavor and balances salt.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper — adds a gentle warmth and seasoning lift.
- 4 cups green beans (fresh or frozen) — provide freshness, color, and fiber.
- 1 1/2 cups crispy fried onions — deliver crunchy texture and toasted flavor.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional) — gives richness and a melty, golden topping.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper until smooth.
- Stir in the green beans and half of the crispy fried onions so they are evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and spread it into an even layer.
- Bake for 25 minutes, uncovered, until the mixture is hot and bubbling around the edges.
- Top with the remaining fried onions (and cheddar cheese, if using) and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
FAQ
Q: Can I freeze this recipe?
A: Yes. Assemble the casserole through Step 4, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking, then follow Steps 5–6.
Q: Can I use fresh green beans instead of frozen?
A: Absolutely. Blanch fresh green beans for 3–4 minutes, shock in ice water, drain well, and proceed with the recipe for the best texture.
Q: What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
A: You can substitute cream of chicken soup or make a quick homemade white sauce (butter + flour + milk + mushrooms) for a fresher flavor.
Q: Is the cheddar cheese necessary?
A: No — the cheese is optional. It adds richness and a golden top, but the casserole is delicious without it.
Tips & Tricks
- Don’t overcrowd the dish: Use a casserole dish that allows the topping to crisp evenly.
- Dry green beans well: If using fresh, make sure they are well-drained after blanching to avoid a watery casserole.
- Add the crispy onions late: Save half the onions for the final bake to preserve their crunch and prevent sogginess.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Because canned soups and onions can vary in saltiness, taste the sauce before baking and add a pinch more pepper or a dash more soy sauce if desired.
Enjoy this cozy casserole with family and friends — it’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a simple weeknight side. Always add
tag after Directions.
Conclusion
For more variations and step-by-step inspiration, check out these helpful resources: Green Bean Casserole, Ultimate Green Bean Casserole – Southern Bite, and Best-Ever Green Bean Casserole With Step-by-Step Video Recipe ….